Cranberry Pineapple Upside-Down Cake

why make this recipe

Cranberry Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the sweet and tart flavors of pineapples and cranberries. This cake is unique because it’s baked upside down, allowing the fruits to caramelize and create a beautiful topping. The delightful combination of juicy pineapples and bright cranberries not only looks amazing but also adds a burst of flavor that makes every bite exciting.

This cake is perfect for various occasions—from family gatherings to holiday celebrations. It’s simple to make and is sure to impress your guests with its stunning presentation. If you want to showcase a unique dessert that tastes incredible and looks like a showstopper, then this is the recipe for you!

Moreover, the cake is easy to personalize. You can substitute or add different fruits according to your preference. Whether you are an experienced baker or someone new to the culinary world, this cake offers an enjoyable experience, and best of all, it’s not complicated. You will find joy in both making and consuming this delightful treat.

how to make Cranberry Pineapple Upside-Down Cake

Making a Cranberry Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is straightforward and fun. You will be amazed at how easily you can create this delicious dessert to share with friends and family. Follow these delicious steps to create your version of this spectacular cake.

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: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake will bake evenly. Grab a 9-inch round cake pan, grease it with some butter, and if you want an easy release later, you can line the bottom with parchment paper.

2. Prepare the Topping: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter together with 1 cup of packed brown sugar. Stir it until the mixture becomes smooth. Pour this sweet mixture into the cake pan you prepared earlier, spreading it evenly across the bottom.

3. Arrange the Pineapple and Cranberries: Take your 8 slices of drained canned pineapple and place them neatly on top of the brown sugar mixture in the pan. Sprinkle 1 cup of fresh cranberries evenly over the pineapple slices. This adds a gorgeous pop of color and flavor that will be delightful once the cake is inverted.

4. Make the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar using an electric mixer until it becomes light and fluffy. Then, add in the 2 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Next, pour in 1/2 cup of milk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well blended.

5. Combine the Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, sift together 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, using a spatula or spoon to mix gently. Be careful not to over-mix; you just want everything combined.

6. Pour the Batter: Carefully pour the batter over the prepared pineapple and cranberry layer in the cake pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top so it cooks evenly.

7. Bake the Cake: Place the cake pan in your preheated oven. Bake your Cranberry Pineapple Upside-Down Cake for 40 to 45 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready!

8. Cool and Invert: Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, use a plate to carefully invert the cake onto a serving dish. You can tap the bottom of the pan gently if needed to release it.

9. Serve: This cake is fantastic warm or at room temperature. Consider adding some whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream on the side for even more deliciousness!

how to serve Cranberry Pineapple Upside-Down Cake

Serving your Cranberry Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is part of the fun! Once you have inverted the cake onto a serving plate, you can present it beautifully. Here are some simple serving suggestions to enhance your dessert:

• Slice It Right: Use a serrated or sharp knife to cut the cake into wedges or slices. This helps to keep the pineapple and cranberries intact on each serving.

• Add Whipped Cream: Consider dolloping some freshly whipped cream on each slice. It adds a light and airy texture that balances the sweetness of the cake.

• Scoop with Ice Cream: For a more decadent experience, serve the cake warm with a side of vanilla ice cream. The melting ice cream will blend beautifully with the fruity flavors of the cake.

• Decorate with Fresh Fruits: Garnish each serving with a few whole cranberries or slices of fresh pineapple. This adds a touch of color and gives your cake an elegant look when serving guests.

• Pair with Beverages: Enjoy your slices of cake with a cup of hot coffee or tea. It also goes fantastically with a light refreshing fruit juice or sweet soda.

how to store Cranberry Pineapple Upside-Down Cake

If you happen to have leftovers (although it’s hard to resist eating it all!), storing your Cranberry Pineapple Upside-Down Cake correctly will help keep it fresh for a few days. Follow these simple storage tips:

• At Room Temperature: If you plan to eat the cake within a day or two, you can keep it covered at room temperature. Place a cake dome or a large cover over it to prevent the cake from drying out.

• In the Refrigerator: For longer freshness, consider refrigerating the cake. Make sure it’s covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. This can keep the cake fresh for about one week.

• Freezing: If you want to store the cake for an extended period, slice it into pieces and place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. This method will keep the cake good for about 2 to 3 months in the freezer. Remember to thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.

tips to make Cranberry Pineapple Upside-Down Cake

To ensure your cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients are fresh, particularly the butter and eggs. Room temperature ingredients mix better, creating a smoother batter.

2. Don’t Over-Mix: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix gently until just combined. Over-mixing can cause the cake to be dense rather than light and fluffy.

3. Fruit Preparation: Ensure the pineapple slices are well drained. Excess juices can make the bottom layer too soggy, so use a paper towel if needed to blot them dry.

4. Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cake as it bakes. Depending on your oven, baking times can vary. It’s better to check a few minutes earlier to avoid overbaking.

5. Patience After Baking: Allow the cake to cool for 10 minutes in the pan before inverting. This helps it set and prevents breaking when flipped.

6. Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to add nuts or other fruits like cherries or peaches to the topping to create a fun twist on the classic recipe.

variation

While the Cranberry Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is delightful as it is, you can always play around with different variations to suit your taste or seasonal availability.

• Use Fresh Cranberries: If cranberries are available, using fresh ones can enhance the flavor of your cake. They are tart and add a burst of freshness.

• Try Other Fruits: You can swap out the cranberries for other berries such as blueberries or raspberries. You could also use peaches, cherries, or pears for a different flavor profile.

• Add Spices: Incorporating spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter can instantly change the cake’s flavor. A touch of cardamom can also add an exotic twist.

• Make It Gluten-Free: You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, allowing those who are gluten intolerant to enjoy this delicious cake as well.

• Create a Coconut Version: For a tropical twist, add shredded coconut into the batter and maybe on top for extra flair. This will create a unique texture and taste that complements the pineapple beautifully.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries; however, there may be a little extra moisture. If using frozen cranberries, do not thaw them before adding to the cake.

2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Definitely! You can bake the cake a day or two in advance. Keep it covered at room temperature, or refrigerate it to maintain its freshness.

3. Can this cake be made as cupcakes?
Yes! You can make cupcake versions of this cake. Follow the same procedure, but pour the batter into cupcake liners. Bake for about 18-20 minutes, keeping an eye on them.

4. What can I do if my cake sticks to the pan?
To prevent sticking, make sure to grease the pan well and use parchment paper. If it does stick, try running a knife around the edges and carefully applying gentle pressure.

5. Why did my cake sink?
A sinking cake could be due to under-baking or over-mixing the batter. Be sure to follow the mixing instructions and bake until the cake is fully set.

6. Can I add nuts to the cake?
Absolutely! Adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the topping layer can add delicious texture can enhance the flavor of your cake.

Cranberry Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is not just a dessert but an experience that brings joy to your kitchen and your palate. Enjoy baking, and happy eating!

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