Ultimate Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Recipe
Introduction
Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is a beloved American dessert that rose to fame in the early 20th century. Its signature look—a caramelized, jewel-like top of pineapples and cherries—makes it instantly recognizable. The “upside-down” method, where fruit is arranged at the bottom of the pan and covered with batter, reverses upon serving to reveal a stunning finish. It’s a nostalgic, comforting cake that’s perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or simply satisfying a sweet craving.
History
The concept of “upside-down” cakes dates back centuries, using cast-iron skillets over open fires. However, the pineapple version became iconic in the 1920s after Dole Pineapple ran a contest for pineapple recipes, flooding newspapers and cookbooks with this now-classic cake. Canned pineapple rings made it affordable and accessible, cementing its place in mid-century American baking.
Benefits
· Visual Showstopper: Requires no fancy frosting—the fruit creates a beautiful natural decoration.
· One-Pan Wonder: Mixed and baked in the same skillet (or pan).
· Moist & Dense Texture: The brown sugar and fruit juices keep the cake incredibly moist for days.
· Versatile: You can experiment with other fruits like peaches, apples, or mangoes.
Ingredients
For the Topping:
· 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter
· 1/2 cup (100g) packed light or dark brown sugar
· 1 can (20 oz / 565g) pineapple rings in juice (not syrup), drained, juice reserved
· 8-10 maraschino cherries, drained
For the Cake:
· 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
· 1 teaspoon baking powder
· 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
· 1/2 teaspoon salt
· 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
· 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
· 2 large eggs, room temperature
· 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
· 1/3 cup (80ml) sour cream or plain yogurt
· 1/4 cup (60ml) reserved pineapple juice (or milk)
Instructions & Method
- Preheat & Prepare:
· Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
· Have a 10-inch cast-iron skillet or 9-inch round cake pan ready (if using a cake pan, melt topping ingredients in a saucepan first, then transfer to the pan).
- Make the Topping:
· In your skillet over medium heat, melt 1/4 cup butter. Stir in brown sugar until dissolved and bubbling. Remove from heat.
· Arrange pineapple rings in a single layer on the sugar mixture. Place a cherry in the center of each ring and in gaps.
- Make the Cake Batter:
· In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
· In a large bowl using an electric mixer, beat softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (3 minutes).
· Beat in eggs one at a time, then vanilla.
· Mix in sour cream.
· Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing on low until just combined. Stir in pineapple juice until the batter is smooth but do not overmix.
- Bake:
· Carefully spread the batter evenly over the pineapple topping in the skillet.
· Bake for 35–45 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
· Let the cake cool in the skillet on a wire rack for 15 minutes only.
- The Flip (Crucial Step!):
· Run a knife around the edges to loosen.
· Place a large serving plate upside-down over the skillet. Using oven mitts, quickly and confidently flip the skillet and plate together.
· Gently lift the skillet. If any fruit sticks, gently reposition it on the cake.
For Lovers of This Cake
· Nostalgia Bakers: Often reminds people of baking with grandparents.
· Beginner Bakers: The impressive result outweighs the simple technique.
· Potluck Pros: Always a crowd-pleaser and conversation starter.
Nutrition (Per Serving, approx. 1/12 of cake)
· Calories: ~320
· Fat: 14g
· Carbs: 47g
· Sugar: 34g
· Protein: 3g
· Note: This is a treat dessert. For a slightly healthier version, reduce sugar by 25%, use whole wheat pastry flour, or add a sprinkle of nuts for healthy fats.
Conclusion
Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a piece of culinary history that brings joy through its striking appearance and deliciously moist, buttery flavor. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner, it promises to deliver satisfaction in every bite. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its perfect combination of simplicity and elegance.
So, preheat that oven and get flipping! 
