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– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup whole milk (or pineapple juice for extra pineapple flavor)
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### Instructions:
#### Step 1: Prepare the Topping
The topping is the star of this cake, providing the rich, caramelized pineapple flavor that makes the upside-down cake so special.
1. **Melt the Butter**: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a 9-inch round cake pan, melt the 1/4 cup of butter in the oven for about 3-5 minutes.
2. **Add the Brown Sugar**: Once the butter has melted, carefully remove the pan from the oven and sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the melted butter. Stir gently to combine, creating a sweet syrupy base.
3. **Arrange the Pineapple Rings and Cherries**: Place the pineapple rings on top of the butter and sugar mixture, arranging them in a pattern that’s pleasing to the eye (usually a circle or spiral). For an added pop of color, place a maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple ring. If you have extra pineapple rings, you can place them around the edges of the pan.
#### Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
Now that the topping is ready, it’s time to prepare the cake batter.
1. **Mix Dry Ingredients**: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This will ensure the dry ingredients are evenly distributed and help the cake rise properly.
2. **Cream Butter and Sugar**: In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer or a hand whisk. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy—this should take about 3-4 minutes.
3. **Add Eggs and Vanilla**: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until combined.
4. **Combine with Dry Ingredients**: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk (or pineapple juice, if you want a stronger pineapple flavor). Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the cake light and tender.
#### Step 3: Assemble and Bake the Cake
Now it’s time to assemble the cake and get it in the oven.
1. **Pour the Batter Over the Topping**: Gently pour the prepared cake batter over the pineapple and brown sugar topping. Use a spatula to smooth it out into an even layer, ensuring it covers the fruit completely.
2. **Bake**: Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden, and the cake should rise slightly around the edges.
3. **Cool Slightly**: Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This short cooling period helps prevent the cake from sticking to the pan when flipped.
#### Step 4: Flip the Cake
The moment of truth! This is where the “upside-down” magic happens.
1. **Flip the Cake**: Place a serving platter or large plate over the cake pan. With one hand holding the plate securely, use the other hand to carefully flip the pan upside down. Gently lift the pan off, revealing the caramelized pineapple topping. If any pineapple pieces stick to the pan, you can gently lift them off and place them back onto the cake.
2. **Serve and Enjoy**: Allow the cake to cool for a few more minutes before slicing and serving. This cake is perfect on its own or served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
### Why This Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is the Best
What makes this Pineapple Upside-Down Cake stand out from others is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The caramelized brown sugar and pineapple topping adds sweetness and depth, while the soft, buttery cake provides a light, airy base that complements the fruit perfectly. The pineapple, in particular, shines through with its tangy, juicy sweetness, while the brown sugar gives the topping a rich, caramelized edge.
This cake isn’t just delicious—it’s also a showstopper. The vibrant golden pineapple rings and glossy cherries create a beautiful presentation that’s sure to impress anyone who lays eyes on it.
### Tips for the Perfect Pineapple Upside-Down Cake:
– **Use Fresh Pineapple for Extra Flavor**: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can substitute the canned pineapple with fresh pineapple. Just make sure to slice it thinly and remove the core before using it in the topping.
– **Add Spice for a Twist**: For a little extra flavor, you can add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake batter. These spices pair wonderfully with the pineapple and brown sugar.
– **Don’t Overmix the Batter**: Be careful not to overmix the cake batter, as this can make the cake dense. Mix until just combined for the fluffiest, lightest texture.
– **Let It Cool Before Serving**: After flipping the cake, let it cool slightly before cutting into it. This helps the topping set and makes it easier to slice without the fruit sliding off.
### Final Thoughts
This **Pineapple Upside-Down Cake** is a timeless treat that combines the richness of caramelized fruit with a soft, fluffy cake. It’s simple to make yet always impressive, making it the perfect dessert for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a special celebration. With its tropical flavors and classic presentation, this cake is sure to become a beloved favorite in your dessert repertoire. So, why not give it a try? It’s easy, delightful, and sure to bring smiles with every bite.
