Lollie'S Upside Down Cake
A luscious upside-down cake featuring caramelized pineapple and cherries, with a tender, buttery crumb—perfect for dessert lovers seeking a nostalgic, fruit-filled treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place 1 cup brown sugar and 3 tablespoons butter in a cast iron Dutch oven and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Lay rings of pineapple in the skillet and add a cherry in each ring.
- Pour the remaining brown sugar over the pineapple and cherries.
- Cream together 1/2 cup butter and 1 cup granulated sugar; add 2 well-beaten eggs.
- Slowly add 1 cup milk to the mixture.
- Pour this batter over the pineapple rings in the skillet.
- In a separate bowl, combine 2½ cups flour, 2½ teaspoons baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the batter along with vanilla, beating well.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes or until golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract to the batter. If you don’t have brown sugar, you can substitute it with an equal amount of white sugar mixed with a tablespoon of molasses. Ensure you beat the eggs well for a lighter cake texture. To prevent sticking, grease the skillet thoroughly before adding the batter.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is delightful when served warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience. It pairs beautifully with Lemon Velvet Ice Cream for a refreshing contrast. Serve alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a perfect afternoon treat, and consider drizzling with caramel sauce for added sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, place a slice in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lollie'S Upside Down Cake contains roughly 917 calories, with 6g protein, 159g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (28% of the Daily Value) and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and protein.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple can be used for a more vibrant flavor. Just slice it into rings and ensure it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture in your cake. The fresh fruit will add a lovely texture and taste, enhancing the overall experience of Lollie’s Upside Down Cake.
What can I substitute for the cherries?
If cherries aren’t available, you can use sliced strawberries or blueberries as a substitution. They will provide a similar burst of flavor and color. Alternatively, consider using a mix of other fruits like peaches or even maraschino cherries for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
How can I tell when the cake is done baking?
The cake is done when it is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. You can also gently press the top; it should spring back if fully baked. If you notice it browning too quickly, you can cover it loosely with foil to prevent burning while it finishes baking.
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).