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A delicious homemade Pineapple Upside Down Cake garnished with cherries.

Pineapple Upside Down Cake

A classic dessert with caramelized pineapple and a moist, buttery cake, perfect for any celebration or family gathering.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Cake, Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings
Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Topping

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, plus more for greasing the pan Butter for moisture and richness
  • 3/4 cup packed brown sugar Creates the caramel layer
  • 1 can (20 ounces) sliced pineapples in juice, drained Provides convenience and flavor
  • Maraschino cherries to taste for garnish Adds decorative touch and flavor

For the Cake

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour Forms the structure of the cake
  • 1 cup granulated sugar Adds sweetness
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder Leavening agent
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt Balances sweetness
  • 1/2 cup milk Adds moisture
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil Creates softness
  • 2 large eggs Binds ingredients
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances flavor

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter.
  • Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly across the bottom of the prepared pan, then pour melted butter over it.
  • Arrange the pineapple slices over the brown sugar mixture, placing a cherry in the center of each slice.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  • In another bowl, whisk together milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
  • Gradually fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring until just combined.
  • Pour the batter over the pineapple arrangement in the pan.

Baking

  • Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  • Allow the cake to cool for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a plate to reveal the pineapple topping.
  • Cool slightly before serving.

Notes

For added flavor, consider using fresh pineapple, adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or substituting gluten-free flour. Make sure to grease the pan well for easy removal.
Keyword Birthday Cake, classic recipe, Dessert, Pineapple Upside Down Cake, Tropical Dessert