Cranberry Pineapple Upside-Down Cake

why make this recipe

Cranberry Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is a delightful dessert that brings together the sweet and tart flavors of cranberries and pineapple. This cake is not just visually appealing with its gorgeous topping, but it also offers a wonderful balance of flavors. It serves as an impressive centerpiece for any gathering and is sure to please both family and friends.

Making this cake is an enjoyable process that combines simple ingredients into a beautiful dessert. With its moist texture and flavorful topping, it’s a good fit for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday, a birthday, or just a Sunday family dinner. Plus, the combination of fruit gives it a freshness that can brighten up any table. Once you taste it, you’ll understand why this cake is a favorite for so many bakers.

how to make Cranberry Pineapple Upside-Down Cake

Making Cranberry Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is fairly straightforward, even for those who are new to baking. You start with the topping, which is caramelized pineapple and cranberries, creating a colorful and delicious base that dazzles when you flip the cake out of the pan. After preparing the topping, you create the cake batter, which is rich and fluffy.

The key to making this cake is to take your time and enjoy the process. The combination of the buttery, caramelized fruit topping with the sweet, moist cake creates a delightful taste experience. Follow along as we dive into the ingredients and directions to create this delicious cake!

Ingredients

To make the Cranberry Pineapple Upside-Down Cake, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 8 slices canned pineapple, drained
• 1 cup fresh cranberries
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial as it ensures that your cake will bake evenly.

2. Prepare the Cake Pan: Grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter and then line the bottom with parchment paper. This will help prevent the cake from sticking and make it easier to serve later.

3. Make the Topping: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter and brown sugar together until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This will create a rich caramel which will be the base of your cake topping.

4. Arrange the Pineapple: Pour the buttery brown sugar mixture into the greased cake pan. Then, carefully arrange the pineapple slices on top of this mixture, making sure to cover it evenly. After this, sprinkle the fresh cranberries evenly over the pineapple slices. This will add a pop of color and tartness that perfectly complements the sweetness of the pineapple.

5. Make the Batter: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. It’s important to mix thoroughly at this stage to ensure a light texture in the cake.

6. Add Eggs: Once the butter and sugar are well combined, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This will help incorporate air into the batter, giving your cake a nice rise.

7. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour in the milk and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is combined. In another bowl, sift together the flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently to avoid overmixing. Overmixing can lead to a denser cake.

8. Pour the Batter: Pour the batter over the arranged pineapple and cranberries in the cake pan. Use a spatula to smooth it out evenly.

9. Bake the Cake: Place the cake pan into the preheated oven and bake for about 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

10. Cool and Invert: Once the cake is baked, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully invert it onto a serving plate. Be gentle to avoid disturbing the topping.

11. Serve: You can serve the cake warm or at room temperature. For an extra treat, consider topping it with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Both options bring an additional creaminess that pairs beautifully with the sweet and tart cake.

how to serve Cranberry Pineapple Upside-Down Cake

When it comes to serving Cranberry Pineapple Upside-Down Cake, presentation is key. The upside-down nature of this cake means that the colorful fruit topping is the star of the show. After inverting the cake onto a plate, allow guests to see the vibrant red cranberries and golden pineapple.

You can serve the cake on its own for a simple dessert experience, or elevate it with a few accompaniments. A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top adds a rich and airy contrast to the cake. Alternatively, a scoop of vanilla ice cream can add a nice chill and creaminess that complements the warm cake perfectly.

For a festive touch, you could also sprinkle some chopped mint or additional cranberries on top just before serving. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a fresh, bright flavor to each slice.

What’s great about this cake is that it’s perfect on its own but versatile enough to pair with a variety of toppings and accompaniments. Whether for a birthday celebration, a holiday gathering, or simply a sweet treat after dinner, your guests will love it.

how to store Cranberry Pineapple Upside-Down Cake

After you’ve enjoyed your Cranberry Pineapple Upside-Down Cake, you might want to store the leftovers. To keep the cake fresh and delicious, follow these simple storage tips:

1. Cooling: Allow the cake to cool completely at room temperature before storing it. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the cake soggy.

2. Cover: Once cooled, cover the cake with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. If you used a cake stand to serve, you can invert it back into the pan or cover the top directly.

3. Refrigerate: Place the cake in the refrigerator if you plan to eat it within a few days, as the fruit topping and moisture can encourage spoilage.

4. Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in both plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. The cake can last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

5. Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen cake, transfer it to the fridge for a few hours or overnight to thaw. You can also let it sit at room temperature to thaw if you’re short on time.

By storing your cake properly, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of Cranberry Pineapple Upside-Down Cake even days after you bake it.

tips to make Cranberry Pineapple Upside-Down Cake

Making the perfect Cranberry Pineapple Upside-Down Cake can involve a few simple tips that enhance the flavors and ensure successful baking. Here are some helpful tips to consider:

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Fresh cranberries will give your cake a vibrant and tart contrast to the sweetness of the pineapple and cake.

2. Don’t Skip the Parchment Paper: Lining the bottom of the cake pan with parchment paper is key in preventing the cake from sticking, especially with the sticky caramelized topping.

3. Measure Ingredients Accurately: Baking is a science, so accurate measurements are essential. Use measuring cups for dry ingredients and liquid measuring cups for wet ingredients to ensure precision.

4. Avoid Overmixing: Mix the batter just until combined after adding the flour. Overmixing could lead to a denser cake. It’s okay if the batter is a bit lumpy.

5. Check for Doneness: Baking times can vary, so always use a toothpick to test the cake. Insert it into the thickest part of the cake; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your cake is ready.

6. Let It Rest Before Inverting: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for a little while before flipping it onto a plate. This helps it set, making it easier to invert without falling apart.

7. Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to adjust the flavor profile of the cake by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or even using coconut milk instead of regular milk for a twist.

By following these simple tips, you will increase your chances of producing a stunning and delicious Cranberry Pineapple Upside-Down Cake that everyone will enjoy.

variation

While the classic version of Cranberry Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is delightful on its own, you may wish to try some variations to switch things up a bit. Here are a few ideas:

1. Mixed Fruit Version: Instead of just pineapple and cranberries, you can add other fruits like peaches, cherries, or even apples to give a different flavor profile. The sweetness of peaches works especially well with cranberries.

2. Nutty Addition: To add a bit of crunch, consider adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the topping along with the fruits. This can enhance both the texture and flavor of the cake.

3. Spiced Cake: Add spices like cinnamon or ginger to the batter to create a warm, spiced flavor. This is particularly enjoyable during the fall and winter months.

4. Coconut Twist: Incorporate shredded coconut into the cake batter for a tropical flavor. You could also use coconut milk instead of regular milk for another layer of coconut goodness.

5. Gluten-Free Option: If you need a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. This will keep the cake just as tasty for those with gluten sensitivities.

These variations allow you to tailor the Cranberry Pineapple Upside-Down Cake to your personal taste or dietary needs while still enjoying the essence of this wonderful dessert.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use frozen cranberries in place of fresh ones! Just make sure to thaw them and drain any excess moisture before using them in the recipe.

2. How can I tell if the cake is done baking?

To check if your cake is done, insert a toothpick into the thickest part of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your cake is ready to come out of the oven.

3. What can I do if my cake sticks to the pan?

If your cake sticks to the pan, don’t despair! Carefully run a knife around the edges to loosen it. You can also place the cake in the freezer for about 30 minutes, which can help unstick it.

4. Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can make a dairy-free version by using vegan butter and a non-dairy milk, such as almond milk or coconut milk. This will work well and still create a delicious cake.

5. How long can I store the cake?

If stored in the refrigerator, the cake will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If frozen, it can last for up to 3 months when properly wrapped. Just be sure to let it thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

These FAQs address some common queries surrounding the preparation, storage, and alterations of the Cranberry Pineapple Upside-Down Cake, providing clarity to ensure a successful baking experience. Enjoy the process of making this cake, and you’ll be rewarded with a sweet and memorable dessert!

Print