Fresh Pineapple Upside Down Cake

We love this easy Fresh Pineapple Upside Down Cake recipe! This delightful dessert is perfect for any occasion, from a casual family gathering to a festive celebration. Using fresh pineapple elevates the flavors and adds a tropical twist that’s hard to resist. The caramelized brown sugar topping and moist cake create a beautiful presentation and a sweet treat that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe features straightforward steps, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh pineapple, brown sugar, and butter creates a rich flavor that is simply irresistible.
• Versatile Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or a casual dinner, this cake fits perfectly into any event.
• Moist Texture: By separating the eggs, you achieve a tender and moist cake that melts in your mouth.
• Beautiful Presentation: Inverting the cake reveals stunning layers of caramelized pineapple that make it visually appealing.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into baking, ensure you have the right tools ready. Proper equipment makes the process smoother and helps achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8-inch or 9-inch cake pan
• Electric mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Knife
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Cake Pan: A sturdy cake pan ensures even baking and prevents leaks during cooking.
• Electric Mixer: This tool saves time and effort when beating butter and sugar to achieve fluffiness.
• Spatula: A good spatula is essential for spreading batter evenly and transferring the finished cake without damage.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious Fresh Pineapple Upside Down Cake:

• 8 ounces (225g) fresh pineapple, about 1/4 pineapple
• 12 tablespoons (170g) unsalted butter, softened (1 ½ sticks), divided
• 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons lime zest or lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs, separated
• 1 ½ cups (195g) all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1/2 cup (125g) sour cream or plain yogurt

How to Make Fresh Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Position an oven rack in the lower third of the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Pineapple

1. Remove the ends and peel from the pineapple.
2. Cut into four long wedges, then remove the core.
3. Slice two of the wedges into 1/2-inch thick slices. Most of these will be used for the cake.

Step 3: Prepare the Cake Pan

Spread four tablespoons of butter over the bottom of an 8-inch or 9-inch cake pan that is at least 2 inches tall. Avoid using a springform pan as it may leak.

Step 4: Add Sugar and Cinnamon

Scatter brown sugar and cinnamon evenly over the butter in the prepared pan.

Step 5: Arrange Pineapple Wedges

Arrange the pineapple wedges in one even layer over the brown sugar mixture.

Step 6: Mix Butter, Sugar, and Zest

In a large bowl, beat together the remaining butter, granulated sugar, and zest with an electric mixer on high speed until light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 7: Incorporate Egg Yolks

Add egg yolks and vanilla extract to the mixture; beat until smooth.

Step 8: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk or sift together flour with baking powder and salt.

Step 9: Mix Dry Ingredients with Wet Mixture

On low speed, mix half of the flour mixture into your butter mixture until only a few streaks remain. Then incorporate the remaining flour.

Step 10: Add Egg Whites and Sour Cream

Add unbeaten egg whites and sour cream to your batter. Mix on low speed until everything is blended smoothly.

Step 11: Spoon Batter Into Pan

Spoon your batter onto the arranged pineapple in the pan; spread it into an even layer.

Step 12: Bake the Cake

Bake until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean, around 35 to 40 minutes.

Step 13: Cool and Invert

Cool your cake in its pan for about five minutes. Run a knife around edges before inverting onto a plate to cool completely. If some pineapple slices stick to the pan, use a spatula for gentle transfer back on top of your cake. Serve warm or at room temperature for best enjoyment!

How to Serve Fresh Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Fresh Pineapple Upside Down Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to serve it warm or dress it up with toppings, here are some great serving suggestions.

Classic Serving

• Serve plain: Enjoy the cake on its own to appreciate the rich flavors of pineapple and brown sugar.

With Whipped Cream

• Add fresh whipped cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a creamy texture that complements the cake perfectly.

With Ice Cream

• Pair with vanilla ice cream: The contrast between warm cake and cold ice cream creates a delicious experience.

Topped with Fruit

• Garnish with fresh fruit: Adding slices of fresh berries or bananas enhances the fruity flavors and adds color to your plate.

With Yogurt

• Serve alongside yogurt: A side of tangy yogurt, such as Greek yogurt, balances the sweetness of the cake.

How to Perfect Fresh Pineapple Upside Down Cake

To ensure your Fresh Pineapple Upside Down Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh pineapple: For the best flavor and texture, fresh pineapple is recommended over canned varieties.

• Separate the eggs: This technique helps create a lighter batter and ensures a moist, tender cake.

• Don’t overmix: Gently mix ingredients to avoid incorporating too much air, which can lead to overflow during baking.

• Check oven temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature for even baking.

• Let it cool briefly: Allowing the cake to cool for about 5 minutes in the pan helps it release easily without breaking apart.

Best Side Dishes for Fresh Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Pairing your Fresh Pineapple Upside Down Cake with complementary side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Coconut Rice
   A slightly sweet coconut rice pairs well with the tropical flavors of pineapple, enhancing the overall taste profile.

2. Tropical Fruit Salad
   A refreshing fruit salad with mangoes, kiwis, and berries adds brightness and freshness alongside the rich cake.

3. Mixed Greens Salad
   A light salad with mixed greens and a citrus vinaigrette offers a nice contrast to the sweetness of the cake.

4. Grilled Chicken Skewers
   Savory grilled chicken skewers provide a protein element that balances out the sweet dessert nicely.

5. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasoned roasted vegetables add depth and savory notes that work well against the sweetness of pineapple.

6. Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses, particularly softer varieties like Brie or goat cheese, complements the cake’s flavors beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Fresh Pineapple Upside Down Cake, it’s easy to make some common errors. Avoid these pitfalls for the best results.

• Using canned pineapple: Canned pineapple can lead to a soggier cake. Opt for fresh pineapple for a firmer texture and better flavor.
• Not separating the eggs: Skipping this step may cause the cake to rise too much and overflow. Separate the yolks and whites for a more tender cake.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much incorporates too much air, leading to a dense cake. Mix just until combined for a light texture.
• Skipping the cooling time: Removing the cake from the pan too soon can cause it to break apart. Let it cool in the pan for at least 5 minutes before inverting.
• Using incorrect pan size: Using a pan that’s too small can cause overflow. Stick with an 8-inch or 9-inch pan as recommended.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Keep in an airtight container: This prevents moisture loss and keeps your cake fresh.
• Consume within 3-4 days: For optimal taste, eat your cake within this time frame.

Freezing Fresh Pineapple Upside Down Cake

• Wrap tightly: Use plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Store for up to 3 months: Enjoy your cake later without losing flavor.

Reheating Fresh Pineapple Upside Down Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C) and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat until heated through, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Fresh Pineapple Upside Down Cake.

Can I use other fruits in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute other fruits like peaches or cherries, but adjust baking times accordingly.

How do I ensure my cake doesn’t stick?

Grease your cake pan well and line the bottom with parchment paper for easier release.

What makes this Fresh Pineapple Upside Down Cake special?

The use of fresh pineapple gives it a vibrant flavor and moist texture that canned pineapple can’t match.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Certainly! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, but check that it includes xanthan gum if needed.

Final Thoughts

This Fresh Pineapple Upside Down Cake is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding nuts or using different fruits. Try this delightful recipe to impress your family and friends!