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Classic Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Learn how to make the classic Pineapple Upside Down Cake with sweet caramelized fruit and a moist vanilla cake, served warm for the perfect dessert.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8 slices
Calories 380 kcal

Equipment

  • oven
  • 9-inch round cake pan
  • mixing bowl
  • medium bowl
  • whisk
  • electric mixer
  • spatula
  • wire rack
  • knife
  • measuring cups
  • measuring spoons

Ingredients
  

Topping

  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1 can (20 oz) pineapple slices in juice drained
  • maraschino cherries for garnish

Cake Batter

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs at room temperature
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup whole milk at room temperature

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F. Melt 1/4 cup butter and pour it into a 9-inch round cake pan, swirling to coat the bottom. Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the melted butter.
  • Arrange the drained pineapple slices in a single layer over the brown sugar mixture, placing a maraschino cherry in the center of each ring.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
  • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened 1/2 cup butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed for 3-4 minutes, until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
  • Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour. Mix just until the batter is smooth with no dry streaks.
  • Carefully spoon the batter over the arranged pineapple layer in the pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula to cover completely.
  • Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
  • Let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack for 15 minutes. Run a knife around the edge to loosen, then invert onto a serving plate. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Let the cake cool in the pan for the specified time to allow the topping to set before inverting.
Keyword classic dessert, pineapple upside down cake, vanilla cake