Golden Pineapple Paradise Upsidedown Cake
Table of Contents
- Recipe Introduction
- My Upside-Down Cake Story
- Ingredients that make the Best Upside Down Cake
- How to bake to "Great British Bake Off" Standards
- Ingredients & Equipment for the Best Upside Down Cake Recipe
- Golden Pineapple Paradise: Baking an Upside Down Cake Fit for the Great British Bake Off
- Recipe Notes for a Truly Stunning Upside Down Cake
- Frequently Asked Questions
- 📝 Recipe Card
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Fancy a trip down memory lane? This pineapple upside down cake recipe is like a warm hug from your grandma. Honestly, who can resist that sweet, tangy, caramelized pineapple cake flavour?
Brief Overview
The upside down cake has roots that go way back. It’s a classic American dessert. My take is simple, great for a skillet cake recipe or baking tin.
It's medium difficulty and takes about 1 hour 20 minutes to make. This recipe will make about 8-10 servings, perfect for a family gathering.
Main Benefits
One of the best things about it? You get fruit! This makes it almost healthy! It's ideal for afternoon tea, or even as a showstopper for a simple get-together with friends.
What makes this recipe special is how it marries simplicity with a wow factor.
My Upside Down Cake Story
Right, so let me tell you about my first attempt at this easy upside down cake recipe . Oh my gosh, disaster! The caramel stuck to the pan.
I had forgotten to let it cool slightly. I learnt my lesson that day and so can you from my mistakes!.
Ingredients that make the Best Upside Down Cake
For the topping, you’ll need: 113g melted unsalted butter, 150g packed light brown sugar, a 567g can of pineapple slices (drained), and some halved maraschino cherries.
The cake part requires: 192g all-purpose flour, 7.5ml baking powder, 1.25ml salt, 113g softened unsalted butter, 150g granulated sugar, 2 large eggs, 3.
75ml vanilla extract, 120ml whole milk, and 30ml reserved pineapple juice. This upside down cake with fruit is calling our name!
How to bake to "Great British Bake Off" Standards
You'll also need a 9 inch oven safe skillet (cast iron is best) or round cake tin. Trust me, a good skillet makes all the difference for that pineapple upside down cake .
Ingredients & Equipment for the Best Upside Down Cake Recipe
Alright, so you want to nail that Pineapple Upside Down Cake ? Let's talk ingredients. The key to a really good Upside Down Cake the kind that would impress even Prue Leith from the "Great British Bake Off" is using quality ingredients.
Trust me, it makes all the difference! Let's get started.
Main Ingredients Breakdown
- Melted unsalted butter: ½ cup (113g) . Go for proper butter, none of that spreadable stuff.
- Packed light brown sugar: ¾ cup (150g) . This makes the caramel . Don’t skimp!
- Canned pineapple slices: 1 (20 ounce/567g) . Drain 'em, but save 2 tablespoons (30ml) of the juice!
- Maraschino cherries: As many as you like. Halve them, they look cuter.
- All-purpose flour: 1 ½ cups (192g) .
- Baking powder: 1 ½ teaspoons (7.5ml) . This gives the cake its lift.
- Salt: ¼ teaspoon (1.25ml) . Balances the sweetness.
- Softened unsalted butter: ½ cup (113g) . Needs to be soft, not melted.
- Granulated sugar: ¾ cup (150g) .
- Large eggs: 2 . Free range if you can!
- Vanilla extract: ¾ teaspoon (3.75ml) . Real vanilla is amazing.
- Whole milk: ½ cup (120ml) .
- Reserved pineapple juice: 2 tablespoons (30ml) .
Seasoning Notes: Flavour Bombs!
For this Caramelized Pineapple Cake , we need to think about depth of flavour. Vanilla extract is non negotiable.
Essential spice combos? Honestly, a pinch of cinnamon in the batter is divine.
Quick sub? Almond extract if you’re out of vanilla. It will give it that extra depth.
Equipment Needed: No Fuss Essentials
- 9 inch oven safe skillet (cast iron, if possible). I swear by my cast iron!
- Mixing bowls.
- Whisk.
- Electric mixer (handheld is fine!). Makes life easier.
- Rubber spatula. For getting every last bit of batter.
You know, you don't need a fancy stand mixer. A good old bowl and wooden spoon will do the trick if that's what you've got.
I've made this easy upside down cake recipe both ways. For the pan a round cake pan can also be used.
Just keep it on the 350° F/ 175° C . Let's move on to the step-by-step!
Golden Pineapple Paradise: Baking an Upside Down Cake Fit for the Great British Bake Off
Alright, let's talk about baking! Specifically, let's dive into the delicious world of classic desserts and conquer the Pineapple Upside Down Cake .
This Pineapple Cake isn't just any cake, it's a showstopper. I always think of it as sunshine on a plate.
Trust me, with my recipe, you'll be whipping up a Best Upside Down Cake that'd make Mary Berry proud. I mean, who doesn't love a good Pineapple Upside Down Cake ?
Prep Steps: Let's Get Organized!
Essential mise en place is key, darling! First, melt ½ cup (113g) of unsalted butter. Then, measure out ¾ cup (150g) packed light brown sugar.
Drain a (567g) can of pineapple slices, but keep 30ml of the juice! Half your maraschino cherries. For the cake, measure out 1 ½ cups (192g) of flour, 1 ½ teaspoons (7.
5ml) of baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon (1.25ml) of salt. Soften ½ cup (113g) of butter. Finally, measure ¾ cup (150g) of granulated sugar, crack 2 large eggs, and have ¾ teaspoon (3.
75ml) of vanilla extract and ½ cup (120ml) of milk ready. Having everything prepped saves time. This will help you avoid any last minute panic.
The Easy Upside Down Cake Recipe: step-by-step
- Caramel Time: Melt the butter in your 9 inch skillet . Stir in brown sugar until it dissolves. Cook on medium heat until bubbly and slightly thick, about 2- 3 minutes . Take it off the heat.
- Pineapple Placement: Arrange pineapple slices neatly over the caramel. Pop a cherry in the middle of each slice, and fill in any gaps.
- Batter Up: Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then vanilla. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, alternating with milk and reserved pineapple juice. Mix until just combined.
- Bake It: Pour batter over pineapple in the skillet. Bake at 350° F ( 175° C) until a skewer comes out clean, about 45- 55 minutes .
- Invert Magic: Let it cool in the skillet for 10 minutes . Invert onto a serving plate. Serve warm!
Pro Tips for a Skillet Cake Recipe Winner
Honestly, don't overbake it! A dry upside down cake recipe is a sad cake. Let it cool slightly before inverting.
This will help the topping set without sticking. A cast iron skillet is ideal for even heat and beautiful caramelization.
Looking to try a variation? Why not try a Peach Upside Down Cake ? You know, if you are looking for ways to shake things up.
So, there you have it! Your guide to an easy upside down cake recipe that’s sure to impress. Remember, baking should be fun, so don’t stress too much about making it perfect.
Just enjoy the process and the delicious results!
Recipe Notes for a Truly Stunning Upside Down Cake
Right then, let's talk about making this Golden Pineapple Paradise: The Ultimate Upside Down Cake a total triumph. Honestly, this isn't just any old pineapple cake .
This upside down cake recipe is a showstopper that'll have everyone thinking you’re ready for The Great British Bake Off!
Get Your Plating Sorted, Love!
You know, presentation is everything. Especially if you want to impress your mates. Slice a generous wedge of that delicious Pineapple Upside Down Cake .
Pop it on a plate and add a scoop of proper vanilla ice cream melting gently over the warm cake.
Drizzle a little extra caramel sauce and boom! Serve it with a strong cuppa, perfect.
Storage Secrets, You See
If you're lucky enough to have leftovers (doubtful!), this best upside down cake keeps nicely. Wrap it tightly in cling film or put it in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to three days.
Freezing isn't really recommended, as the texture can go a bit funny. To reheat, just pop a slice in the microwave for a few seconds, or gently warm it in the oven.
Switch It Up Like a Pro
Fancy a change? Why not try a Peach Upside Down Cake using tinned or fresh peaches? A little cinnamon in the batter adds a lovely warmth.
For a dairy-free version, swap the butter for a good quality vegan spread and the milk for almond milk. Honestly? Nobody will know the difference, and it’ll still be a cracking skillet cake recipe .
Nutrition Nitty Gritty
Okay, so this isn't exactly health food, is it? Each slice is around 350-400 calories, with roughly 4g of protein, 18g of fat, and 45g of carbs.
But hey, everything in moderation! A little bit of what you fancy does you good, as they say. Plus, pineapple has vitamin C, so that's a bonus, right? This Caramelized Pineapple Cake is a tasty experience.
So there you have it! Making this pineapple upside down cake is easier than you think. Get stuck in, have a bit of fun.
Don’t worry about being perfect. Even if it's a bit wonky, it'll still taste amazing! You got this!. It's one of those classic desserts that brings people together.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did my upside down cake stick to the pan? I'm gutted!
Oh dear, that's a right bother! Sticking is usually down to two things: not enough fat in the pan or not cooling it properly. Make sure you've got a good layer of melted butter and brown sugar covering the bottom of your skillet before adding the pineapple.
Then, after baking, let it cool for exactly 10 minutes before inverting. Any longer, and the caramel sets too hard!
Can I use a regular cake pan instead of a skillet for this upside down cake recipe?
Absolutely! While a cast iron skillet gives a lovely, even caramelization, a 9 inch round cake pan works just fine. Just be sure to grease it well and consider lining the bottom with parchment paper for extra insurance against sticking. The sides do not have to be covered, just the bottom.
How do I prevent my pineapple upside down cake from being soggy? It seems a bit wet.
A soggy bottom is never a good sign, is it? This usually means there's too much moisture. Make sure your pineapple slices are well drained before arranging them in the skillet. Also, don't overbake the cake; a skewer inserted into the center should come out clean, not wet. Be careful to not overbake, or underbake.
Can I make this upside down cake recipe ahead of time?
You can indeed! Pineapple upside down cake is best served fresh, but it holds up pretty well. Once cooled, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To warm it up, pop a slice in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, or heat in the oven for a few minutes until warmed through.
What other fruits can I use in this upside down cake recipe besides pineapple?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! Peaches, apples (especially with cinnamon!), and pears are all fantastic substitutes for pineapple. You could even use cranberries for a festive twist, particularly around Christmas. Feel free to experiment and find your favourite fruity combo!
I'm trying to cut down on sugar. Can I reduce the sugar in this upside down cake recipe?
You can certainly try! Reduce the granulated sugar in the cake batter by about 1/4 cup (50g). The cake will be less sweet but still delicious. For the caramel topping, consider using a sugar alternative like erythritol or stevia based brown sugar substitute, but be aware that it may affect the caramelization process slightly.
If you really want to reduce the sugar, but still add flavor, using applesauce might be the move for you!
Golden Pineapple Paradise Upsidedown Cake
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 375 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 18g |
| Fiber | 1g |