Easy Upside-Down Cake
A delicious upside-down cake featuring caramelized pineapple and cherries, with a moist pound cake topping, perfect for entertaining or a sweet indulgence with family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain pineapple slices, reserving 3/4 cup of syrup.
- Melt margarine in an ovenproof pan such as an iron skillet.
- Blend in the brown sugar and remove from heat.
- Arrange pineapple slices in the mixture in the pan.
- Place a cherry in the middle of each pineapple hole.
- Prepare the pound cake mix according to package instructions, replacing the milk with the reserved pineapple syrup.
- Pour the batter over the pineapple in the pan.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 45 to 50 minutes until the cake tests done.
- Cool for 5 minutes.
- Invert the cake onto a serving plate.
- Serve warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine. You can also enhance the cake by adding crushed pecans or walnuts to the bottom of the pan before the pineapple. If you prefer a tropical twist, substitute the pineapple with peaches or cherries. Make sure to let the cake cool slightly before inverting to prevent it from breaking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the upside-down cake warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for added indulgence. It pairs beautifully with Pea & Corn Salad for a delightful contrast. You can also garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color. Enjoy it as a dessert after a hearty meal or as a sweet treat with coffee.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or warm the entire cake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until heated through. This will help retain its moist texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Upside-Down Cake contains roughly 1005 calories, with 0g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 101g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 821mg per serving (36% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different fruit for this cake?
Yes, you can substitute the pineapple with other fruits like peaches, apricots, or even cherries for a different flavor. Just ensure the fruit is sweet and juicy, and adjust the sugar accordingly based on the fruit's sweetness.
What can I do if the cake sticks to the pan?
To prevent sticking, make sure to thoroughly grease the pan before adding the pineapple and batter. If it does stick, try running a knife around the edges and gently tapping the pan to release it. A little patience can help salvage the presentation.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this cake a day in advance. Just store it covered at room temperature. When ready to serve, warm it gently in the oven. This makes it perfect for gatherings or when serving it alongside other desserts like Whiskey Or Bourbon Balls.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).