Ms. Jessie'S Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
A luscious pineapple upside-down cake featuring caramelized pineapple and cherries atop a moist cake, perfect for family gatherings or special occasions with a tropical twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Melt butter in a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Sprinkle granulated brown sugar evenly over the melted butter.
- Arrange pineapple slices in the pan on top of the sugar and butter.
- Place one cherry in the center of each pineapple slice.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the pineapple cake mix, eggs, instant pudding, and pineapple juice.
- Mix until well blended.
- Pour the batter evenly over the pineapple slices in the pan.
- Bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool slightly before inverting onto a serving platter.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark brown sugar instead of light. If you don't have pineapple juice, orange juice can be a great substitute. Ensure the butter is evenly melted to avoid uneven caramelization. For a slightly tangy twist, add some crushed pecans or walnuts on top of the pineapple layer before pouring the batter. This cake pairs beautifully with Easy Cream Of Tomato Soup for a delightful contrast.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cake warm or at room temperature, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added richness. It pairs nicely with fresh fruit or a light salad for a balanced dessert experience. For a unique twist, drizzle with Philly Chocolate Sauce for a chocolatey contrast to the pineapple flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place slices in a microwave for about 15-20 seconds or warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore its moist texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ms. Jessie'S Pineapple Upside-Down Cake contains roughly 260 calories, with 2g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value).
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?
Yes, using fresh pineapple can enhance the flavor and texture of the cake. Just ensure to slice it evenly and remove the core before arranging it in the pan. Fresh pineapple may require a bit more baking time, so keep an eye on it as it bakes.
What can I substitute for the instant pudding?
You can replace the instant pudding with an equal amount of sour cream or yogurt to add moisture. If you're looking for a lighter option, consider skipping it altogether; just add a bit more liquid to the batter to compensate.
How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?
To avoid sticking, make sure to thoroughly coat the bottom of the pan with melted butter and sprinkle enough brown sugar to create a barrier. Once the cake is baked, let it cool slightly before inverting it to ensure the toppings release easily.
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).