Classic Pineapple Upside Down Delight
This delightful Pineapple Upside Down Cake is a tribute to the cherished flavors of homemade goodness. Inspired by my mother's legendary dessert, this cake features succulent pineapple slices glazed in sweet brown sugar, all beautifully encased in a moist and flavorful cake. Unlike conventional recipes that rely on boxed cake mixes, this version showcases the lovely richness of real ingredients, creating a nostalgic experience with every bite. Perfect for gatherings, this cake will surely impress your family and friends while invoking sweet memories of home.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
butter
1/2 cup (divided (1 stick))
brown sugar
1 cup (packed)
pineapple slices
1 can (20 ounces) (reserve juice)
eggs
3 (large)
sugar
1 cup (granulated)
milk
1/4 cup (optional (omit if using extra pineapple juice))
pineapple juice
1/4 cup (or use 1/2 cup for an even fruitier flavor)
vanilla extract
1 teaspoon
flour
1 1/2 cups
baking powder
2 teaspoons
salt
1/4 teaspoon
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Classic Pineapple Upside Down Delight?
It is a moist, homemade cake featuring succulent pineapple slices glazed in sweet brown sugar, based on a traditional family recipe.
Does this recipe use a boxed cake mix?
No, this recipe is made entirely from scratch using real ingredients like flour, eggs, and butter to ensure a rich and nostalgic flavor.
How much butter is required for this cake?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of butter (1 stick), which is divided for use in both the topping and the cake batter.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple slices, though you will need to ensure you have enough pineapple juice reserved from another source for the batter.
How many eggs are needed?
This recipe requires 3 large eggs.
Can I substitute the milk in this recipe?
Yes, if you prefer an even fruitier flavor, you can omit the 1/4 cup of milk and use extra pineapple juice instead.
How much pineapple juice should I use in the batter?
The standard amount is 1/4 cup, but you can increase it to 1/2 cup if you omit the milk for a more intense pineapple flavor.
What type of sugar is used for the caramelized topping?
One cup of packed brown sugar is used to create the signature sweet glaze for the pineapple slices.
Is vanilla extract necessary for this recipe?
One teaspoon of vanilla extract is recommended to enhance the overall flavor profile of the cake.
What is the leavening agent used in this cake?
The recipe uses 2 teaspoons of baking powder to ensure the cake rises properly and stays light.
How much flour is included in the ingredients?
The recipe specifies 1 1/2 cups of flour.
What size can of pineapple slices is required?
You should use one 20-ounce can of pineapple slices, making sure to reserve the juice.
Can I add cherries to this recipe?
While not listed in the base ingredients, adding maraschino cherries to the center of the pineapple slices is a common and delicious variation.
How much salt is in the recipe?
The recipe contains 1/4 teaspoon of salt to balance the sweetness.
What makes this cake 'upside down'?
The fruit and sugar glaze are placed at the bottom of the pan before baking; once finished, the cake is inverted so the fruit becomes the topping.
Is the granulated sugar used for the topping or the batter?
The 1 cup of granulated sugar is intended for the cake batter, while the brown sugar is for the pineapple glaze.
Can I use light or dark brown sugar?
The recipe calls for brown sugar; light brown sugar provides a mild caramel flavor, while dark brown sugar offers a deeper, more molasses-like taste.
What is the texture of this cake?
The cake is described as moist and flavorful, with a rich, dense crumb that holds up well to the fruit topping.
Is this a good recipe for beginners?
Yes, despite being made from scratch, the ingredients and steps are straightforward and perfect for home bakers.
Should I drain the pineapple slices?
Yes, you should drain the slices but be sure to reserve the juice as it is a key ingredient for the batter.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
While the exact count depends on slice size, it typically serves 8 to 10 people.
Can I make this cake in a cast iron skillet?
Yes, a 10-inch cast iron skillet is a traditional and excellent choice for baking upside-down cakes.
Is this recipe high in sugar?
The recipe uses both 1 cup of brown sugar and 1 cup of granulated sugar, making it a sweet, indulgent dessert.
What category does this recipe fall into?
It is categorized as a dessert and a classic homemade cake.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, you can freeze it, though it is best enjoyed fresh or within a couple of days of baking for the best texture.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
What should the pineapple juice-to-milk ratio be?
The recipe suggests 1/4 cup of each, or 1/2 cup of juice if you decide to omit the milk entirely.
Why is it called 'Delight'?
It is named 'Delight' because of the succulent fruit and the nostalgic, sweet memories associated with this family-favorite recipe.
Is it better to serve this cake warm or cold?
It is absolutely delicious served warm, often with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
What type of flour is best?
All-purpose flour is standard for this recipe to provide the necessary structure for the fruit topping.