Step 4: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Step 5: In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3–4 minutes.
Step 6: Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each one is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 7: Gradually add the dry flour mixture in three batches, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour mixture, and mix until just combined—be careful not to over-mix.
Assemble the Cake:
Step 8: Pour the prepared cake batter over the pineapple and sugar mixture in the cake pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.
Step 9: Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the cake is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Invert and Serve:
Step 10: Once the cake is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This allows the caramelized sugar to set, making it easier to invert the cake.
Step 11: Carefully run a knife around the edges of the pan to loosen the cake. Place a serving plate on top of the pan, and quickly flip the pan over to release the cake onto the plate. Be cautious, as the caramelized pineapple can be hot.
Enjoy:
Step 12: Allow the cake to cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve as-is or with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat!
Tips for Serving and Storing:
Serving Suggestions: This cake is delicious on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For an extra tropical flair, garnish with shredded coconut or toasted almonds.
Storage: Store leftover Pineapple Upside-Down Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to 5 days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds for that freshly-baked taste.
Freezing: You can freeze this cake for up to 2-3 months. Be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in an airtight container.
Variants:
Coconut Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: Add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut to the cake batter for a coconut-infused version of this tropical treat.
Caramelized Banana Upside-Down Cake: Replace the pineapple with banana slices for a decadent twist on the classic. Brown sugar and butter will caramelize the bananas beautifully.
Vegan Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: Swap out the butter and eggs for plant-based alternatives like coconut oil and flax eggs. Use almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
FAQ:
1. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple! Peel, core, and slice the pineapple into rings before using it as a topping. Make sure to pat it dry to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the cake’s texture.
2. Why is my cake sticking to the pan after inverting?
To prevent sticking, ensure you grease the pan well and line the bottom with parchment paper before adding the butter and sugar mixture. Letting the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes also helps prevent this.
3. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, Pineapple Upside-Down Cake can be made a day or two ahead of time. Simply store it covered at room temperature or in the fridge and reheat it before serving.
4. Can I use a different type of sugar for the topping?
You can experiment with different sugars, such as raw sugar or even maple syrup, though the flavor may change slightly. Brown sugar gives the best caramelized flavor and texture.
5. My cake came out too dense. What went wrong?
If your cake is dense, it could be because the batter was over-mixed, which can cause it to lose its light texture. Be sure to mix the batter just until everything is combined.
Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is a timeless treat that’s both simple to make and impressive to serve. With its combination of buttery, caramelized pineapple and light, fluffy cake, it’s sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving something sweet, this tropical dessert will never disappoint. Enjoy! 🍍🍰
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