Vintage Cast Iron Pineapple Upside Down Cake
Reviving the classic charm of a recipe dating back to the 1920s, this Vintage Cast Iron Pineapple Upside Down Cake is truly unique. Unlike the typical light and fluffy cakes, this dessert boasts a beautifully crunchy exterior with a satisfyingly chewy interior. Designed to be baked in a cast iron skillet, it delivers a rich and opulent taste, perfect for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself to a slice of history. The interplay of soft caramelized pineapple, buttery caramel, and optional hints of nuts and cherries create a sophisticated experience that captivates both visual and taste senses.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
butter
1/2 cup (melted)
brown sugar
2 cups (preferably light)
pineapple rings
1 can (30 ounces) (drained)
eggs
4 (separated)
sugar
1 cup (granulated)
pineapple juice
2 tablespoons (reserved from the can)
flour
1 cup (all-purpose)
baking powder
1 teaspoon (sifted)
walnuts
optional (chopped)
candied cherry
optional (whole)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
Melt the butter either by placing it in a 9 or 10 inch cast iron skillet in the preheating oven or by melting it gently on the stovetop. Ensure it does not brown.
3
Evenly distribute the brown sugar over the melted butter to form a smooth layer.
4
Place a single pineapple ring in the center of the skillet. Halve the remaining rings and arrange them in a circular pattern like spokes of a wheel around the central ring. You may have a few extra halves left over, which you can use as desired.
5
Fill the gaps between pineapple with optional walnuts and candied cherries for additional flavor and visual appeal.
6
To prepare the batter, beat the egg yolks, sugar, and reserved pineapple juice until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
7
Gradually sift in the flour and baking powder into the egg mixture, folding in gently by thirds to maintain the lightness.
8
Separately, beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. Gently fold them into the batter to incorporate.
9
Carefully pour this batter over the arranged pineapple and optional nuts in the skillet, making sure everything is covered.
10
Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes. Start checking for doneness every 5 minutes thereafter, until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
11
Once cooked, immediately run a knife around the edge of the skillet to ensure the cake will release easily.
12
After a few minutes (it should still be quite warm), place a large plate or serving dish over the skillet and, using oven mitts, invert the skillet quickly to release the cake onto the plate. Be cautious with the hot syrup that might spill.
13
Let the cake cool for about an hour at room temperature before serving. For best flavor, serve warm.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Vintage Cast Iron Pineapple Upside Down Cake?
It is a classic dessert dating back to the 1920s that features a unique crunchy exterior and chewy interior, baked in a cast iron skillet.
When did this recipe originate?
This specific style of recipe dates back to the 1920s.
How is this cake different from modern versions?
Unlike modern light and fluffy cakes, this vintage version has a satisfyingly chewy interior and a crunchy exterior.
What type of pan is required for this recipe?
A 9 or 10 inch cast iron skillet is required for the best results and authentic flavor.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C).
How should the butter be melted?
You can melt the butter directly in the skillet in the oven or gently on the stovetop, ensuring it does not brown.
What kind of brown sugar is recommended?
Light brown sugar is the preferred choice for this recipe.
How do I arrange the pineapple rings?
Place one ring in the center and arrange halved rings around it in a circular pattern like spokes of a wheel.
Should I use fresh or canned pineapple?
The recipe calls for one 30-ounce can of pineapple rings, drained.
Do I need to save the pineapple juice?
Yes, you should reserve 2 tablespoons of pineapple juice from the can for the batter.
Are nuts included in this recipe?
Chopped walnuts are an optional addition for extra flavor and visual appeal.
Can I add cherries to the cake?
Yes, whole candied cherries are an optional addition to fill the gaps between the pineapple.
How are the eggs prepared for the batter?
The eggs should be separated; yolks are beaten with sugar and juice, while whites are beaten to stiff peaks.
How do I incorporate the flour and baking powder?
Sift the flour and baking powder into the egg yolk mixture and fold them in gently by thirds.
What is the secret to the cake's light batter?
Gently folding in the stiffly beaten egg whites helps maintain the lightness of the batter.
How long does the cake take to bake?
The cake typically bakes for about 30 minutes, though you should check for doneness every 5 minutes after that.
How do I test if the cake is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, the cake is finished cooking.
What should I do immediately after removing the cake from the oven?
Run a knife around the edge of the skillet to ensure the cake releases easily.
When is the best time to flip the cake?
Invert the skillet after a few minutes while the cake is still quite warm.
How do I safely invert the cast iron skillet?
Place a large plate over the skillet and, using oven mitts, quickly flip it over, being careful of hot syrup.
How long should the cake cool before serving?
The cake should cool for about an hour at room temperature.
Is the cake served warm or cold?
For the best flavor, it is recommended to serve the cake warm.
What is the texture of the interior?
The interior of this vintage cake is satisfyingly chewy.
What makes the exterior crunchy?
The interaction between the butter, brown sugar, and the heat of the cast iron skillet creates the crunchy exterior.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 10 ingredients total, including optional items like walnuts and candied cherries.
What size of pineapple can is needed?
A 30-ounce can of pineapple rings is specified.
Do I sift the baking powder?
Yes, the baking powder should be sifted along with the flour.
Can I use dark brown sugar?
While light brown sugar is preferred, dark brown sugar can be used for a deeper molasses flavor.
What creates the sophisticated taste profile?
The combination of caramelized pineapple, buttery caramel, and optional nuts and cherries creates a rich, opulent taste.
Is this cake suitable for special occasions?
Yes, its rich taste and historical charm make it perfect for special occasions or as an indulgent treat.