Name: Easy Pineapple Upside Down Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1/4 cup butter (melted); 1 cup brown sugar; 20 oz sliced Dole pineapple (drained, juice reserved); 12 maraschino cherries; 15.25 oz white cake mix; 3 eggs (room temperature); 1 cup reserved pineapple juice; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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There’s something undeniably nostalgic about a Pineapple Upside Down Cake. With its sweet, caramelized topping of pineapples and cherries, each slice is a delightful blend of flavor and memory. This Easy Pineapple Upside Down Cake is not only a throwback to simpler times, but it’s also super simple to make. It’s perfect for gatherings, birthdays, or just a sweet treat after dinner. Whip up this cake in no time with a few pantry staples and some juicy Dole pineapple slices.

What Makes This Recipe Special

This recipe stands out for its simplicity and taste. The brown sugar and butter create a rich caramel that complements the sweetness of the pineapple and cherries perfectly. Using a white cake mix streamlines the process, making this a cake you can bake even on the busiest of days. The reserved pineapple juice adds moisture and flavor to the cake itself, ensuring every bite is as delicious as the last. Plus, who doesn’t love the drama of flipping a cake to reveal that gorgeous, golden topping?

Gather These Ingredients

To create this mouthwatering Easy Pineapple Upside Down Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1/4 cup butter – This creates the base of the caramel topping.
1 cup brown sugar – For sweetness and that lovely caramel flavor.
20 oz sliced Dole pineapple – Make sure to drain but keep the juice reserved.
12 maraschino cherries – A classic topping to add a pop of color.
15.25 oz white cake mix – The base of the cake for easy preparation.
3 eggs – For binding and structure in the cake.
1 cup reserved pineapple juice – This adds moisture and enhances the flavor.
1/2 cup vegetable oil – To ensure a tender crumb.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – For a hint of warmth and depth.

Tools of the Trade

Before you begin baking, gather the following tools:

9-inch round cake pan – This is the perfect size for your cake.
Mixing bowls – For combining your ingredients.
Spatula – For smooth mixing and transferring batter.
Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements are key to baking.
Oven mitts – Safety first when handling hot items!

Mastering Easy Pineapple Upside Down Cake: How-To

Are you ready to bake your new favorite cake? Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cake bakes evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Topping

In your 9-inch round cake pan, melt the 1/4 cup of butter in the oven. Once melted, sprinkle the 1 cup of brown sugar evenly over the butter, stirring gently to combine.

Step 3: Arrange the Pineapple and Cherries

Place the drained sliced pineapple over the brown sugar mixture, creating a beautiful pattern. Nestle the maraschino cherries in between the pineapple slices for a festive touch.

Step 4: Mix the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, 3 eggs, 1 cup of reserved pineapple juice, 1/2 cup of vegetable oil, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Using a spatula, mix until smooth and well combined.

Step 5: Pour the Batter

Gently pour the cake batter over the arranged pineapple and cherries in the cake pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Flip

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Carefully run a knife around the edges, then place a serving plate on top of the cake pan and flip it over to release the cake. Be cautious, as the caramel will be hot!

No-Store Runs Needed

One of the best things about this Easy Pineapple Upside Down Cake is that you likely have most of these ingredients on hand. Check your pantry for:

Cake mix
Brown sugar
Vegetable oil
Eggs

And for the fresh elements, a quick trip to the store is all you need to grab pineapple and cherries.

What I Learned Testing

Through testing this recipe, I discovered a few tips that make the process even easier:

Always use room temperature eggs for better mixing and a fluffier cake.
Do not skip the cooling step before flipping; it helps the cake hold its shape.
If you want an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a dash of cinnamon to the cake batter.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

This Easy Pineapple Upside Down Cake can be enjoyed for days! Here’s how to store it:

Refrigerate: Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freeze: Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheat: To enjoy cold cake, simply slice and serve. To reheat, place a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.

What to Make After This

Once you’ve mastered the Easy Pineapple Upside Down Cake, why not try your hand at these delicious recipes?

Let’s Eat

Now that you’ve baked this Easy Pineapple Upside Down Cake, it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Serve it warm or at room temperature with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. Each slice reveals that stunning caramelized topping, making every bite a delightful experience. Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy evening at home, this cake is sure to impress and satisfy. Happy baking!