Super Skillet Pineapple Upside-Down Cake

Prep: 15 min Cook: 35 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

A delicious pineapple upside-down cake featuring caramelized pineapple, cherries, pecans, and a moist yellow cake base, perfect for dessert gatherings and sweet celebrations.

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Ingredients

  • 1 stick margarine
  • 1 1/4 cups light brown sugar
  • 1 large can pineapple rings, drained
  • 1 large can crushed pineapple, drained
  • 1 small jar cherries
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans
  • 1 yellow cake mix
  • whipped cream

Instructions

  1. Melt the margarine in a large skillet and brush it up on the sides.
  2. Sprinkle the light brown sugar over the melted margarine.
  3. Arrange the pineapple rings over the bottom of the skillet and place cherries in the middle of each ring.
  4. Sprinkle chopped pecans over the pineapple and cherries.
  5. Spread the crushed pineapple evenly over the nut layer.
  6. Prepare the yellow cake mix according to package instructions.
  7. Pour the prepared cake batter over the pineapple and nut layer in the skillet.
  8. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  9. Let the cake cool slightly before inverting onto a serving plate to reveal the pineapple topping.

Tips & Substitutions

To enhance flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the cake batter. If you don't have margarine, unsalted butter can be used as a substitute. For a healthier twist, try using a sugar-free cake mix. Ensure the skillet is well-greased to prevent sticking when inverting the cake.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm, topped with a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful treat. This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. For a complementary drink, consider serving it with a light herbal tea or coffee. It also makes a lovely addition to brunch alongside dishes like Anne Pepper's Cheese Pudding.

Storage & Reheating

Store 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 until warmed through. For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to maintain its texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Super Skillet Pineapple Upside-Down Cake contains roughly 263 calories, with 1g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 20g fat.

263 kcal 13% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.5g 3% DV
Total Fat 20.1g 26% DV
Carbs 21.8g 8% DV
Fiber 1.5g 5% DV
Sugar 16.7g 33% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 106mg 5% DV
Potassium 103.7mg 2% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 0.5mcg
Vitamin C 1.1mg 1% DV
Calcium 25.4mg 2% DV
Iron 0.6mg 3% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains Milk Tree nuts

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, you can use fresh pineapple for a more vibrant flavor. Just slice the fresh pineapple into rings and ensure they are well-drained before arranging them in the skillet. This may slightly alter the texture but will enhance the freshness of the cake.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cake a day in advance. Once baked, allow it to cool completely before covering it with plastic wrap and refrigerating. When ready to serve, simply reheat and invert to reveal the topping. This makes it a great option for gatherings or special occasions.

What can I substitute for pecans?

If you have nut allergies or prefer a different flavor, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds. Alternatively, for a nut-free version, try using a mixture of oats and coconut flakes to add texture without nuts. This will still provide a delicious crunch to the cake.

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).

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