Pineapple Upside Down Cake Recipe

The Dreamy Pineapple Upside Down Cake Recipe You’ll Adore

Sweet memories of grandma’s kitchen dance through my mind whenever I whip up this classic pineapple upside down cake that brings pure comfort.

Caramelized rings nestled in buttery golden batter create a dessert beyond ordinary expectations.

Tropical flavors merge with rich, tender crumb in a way that surprises and delights.

Clusters of caramelized fruit peek through a moist landscape, promising decadent bites.

Vintage cookbooks inspired this timeless treat that connects generations through simple ingredients and love.

Warm from the oven, each slice tells a story of tradition and pure joy.

Let’s uncover the magic that makes this cake a cherished favorite you’ll want to savor.

Why Mary Berry Pineapple Upside Down Cake Is So Loved

Why Mary Berry Pineapple Upside Down Cake Is So Loved
  • Craft with Ease: This recipe transforms complex baking into a simple, stress-free experience perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Delight: A classic dessert that sparks joy and nostalgia, guaranteed to bring smiles around the family dinner table or during gatherings.
  • Quick Preparation Magic: From start to finish, this cake comes together smoothly with minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, making it an ideal go-to dessert for spontaneous sweet cravings.
  • Versatile Serving Options: Whether enjoyed warm with a scoop of creamy ice cream or at room temperature with custard, this cake adapts beautifully to different preferences and occasions.

What Goes Into Mary Berry Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Cake Base:
  • Butter: A rich ingredient that helps create a smooth and tender cake texture.
  • Caster Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps create a light, fluffy cake structure.
  • Self-Raising Flour: Ensures the cake rises properly and has a soft, airy consistency.
Fruit Layer:
  • Pineapple Rings: The star ingredient that creates a beautiful caramelized topping and adds tropical flavor.
Binding Ingredients:
  • Eggs: Bind the cake mixture together and contribute to its rich texture.
  • Milk: Helps to soften the cake batter and create a moist consistency.
Flavor Enhancers:
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, sweet aroma and depth of flavor to the cake.
Supplementary Ingredients:
  • Baking Powder, Salt: Help with the cake's rising and balancing the overall flavor.
Caramel Base:
  • Light Brown Sugar: Creates a delicious caramel layer that coats the pineapple and adds richness.

Simple Steps To Make Mary Berry Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Simple Steps To Make Mary Berry Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Step 1: Prepare The Baking Environment

Warm up your oven to 180°C (170°C fan) or Gas Mark 4. Generously grease a deep 20cm cake tin and optionally line the base with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Create A Caramel Base

Combine butter and light brown sugar in a pan. Melt over low heat until the mixture becomes smooth and glossy. Pour this golden liquid into the prepared tin, tilting to ensure an even coating.

Step 3: Arrange Pineapple Decorations

Drain canned pineapple rings thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels. Place one whole ring right in the center of the tin, then carefully position halved rings around it to create a beautiful pattern.

Step 4: Mix The Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, cream together:
  • Butter
  • Caster sugar

Beat until the mixture becomes pale and fluffy, creating a light and airy texture.

Step 5: Incorporate Eggs And Flavoring

Add eggs to the butter mixture gradually, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract for a rich, warm flavor.

Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients

Sift together:
  • Self-raising flour
  • Baking powder
  • Salt

Gently fold these dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Add milk to create a smooth, spreadable batter.

Step 7: Layer The Batter

Carefully spoon the batter over the arranged pineapple rings. Use a spatula to spread evenly without disturbing the fruit design.

Step 8: Bake To Perfection

Place the tin in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a skewer into the center – it should come out clean.

Step 9: Flip And Reveal

Allow the cake to rest in the tin for 2 minutes. Place a serving plate over the tin, then quickly flip it upside down. Lift the tin carefully to reveal the beautiful pineapple topping.

Step 10: Serve And Enjoy

Serve the cake warm or at room temperature. Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of custard, or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special treat.

Helpful Ideas For Mary Berry Pineapple Upside Down Cake

  • Drain Pineapples Thoroughly: Pat pineapple rings completely dry to prevent excess moisture from making the cake soggy and ruining the caramel layer.
  • Prevent Fruit Sinking: Dust pineapple rings lightly with flour before placing them in the tin to help them stay suspended in the cake batter.
  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for smoother mixing and a more even cake texture.
  • Check Cake Doneness Carefully: Use a skewer or toothpick to test the cake's center – it should come out clean with no wet batter clinging to it.
  • Serve Within Hours: Enjoy the cake on the same day for the best flavor and texture, as the caramel can become less crisp if left overnight.

Fun Twists For Mary Berry Pineapple Upside Down Cake

  • Gluten-Free Tropical Cake: Replace self-raising flour with gluten-free flour blend and add xanthan gum for better texture and binding.
  • Vegan Pineapple Delight: Substitute butter with coconut oil, eggs with aquafaba or flax eggs, and use plant-based milk for a dairy-free version.
  • Low-Sugar Fruity Option: Use stevia or monk fruit sweetener instead of sugar, and reduce overall sugar content while maintaining cake's moistness.
  • Coconut Caribbean Remix: Add shredded coconut to the batter and sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top for a tropical flavor enhancement.

Nice Pairings With Mary Berry Pineapple Upside Down Cake

  • Palate-Pleasing Pairings: Elevate Your Pineapple Upside Down Cake Experience
  • Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream Companion: Smooth, cold vanilla ice cream cuts through the cake's sweetness, creating a luxurious contrast that refreshes the palate with each delightful bite.
  • Tropical Rum Cocktail Match: A light Caribbean-style rum cocktail with pineapple juice enhances the cake's tropical notes, complementing the caramelized fruit and adding a sophisticated adult twist.
  • Cinnamon-Spiced Coffee Delight: A warm mug of cinnamon-infused coffee balances the cake's richness, with the spice's warmth echoing the caramelized pineapple's deep flavors and providing a comforting accompaniment.

Store Mary Berry Pineapple Upside Down Cake The Right Way

  • Store covered in an airtight container for up to 3 days, keeping the cake moist and fresh. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap or place in a sealed container to prevent drying out.
  • Wrap individual slices or the whole cake in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Store in the freezer for 2-3 months. Ensure complete coverage to prevent freezer burn.
  • Remove from freezer and let sit at room temperature for 1-2 hours. Avoid microwaving to maintain cake's texture and prevent sogginess.
  • Warm individual slices in the oven at 150°C for 5-10 minutes. Alternatively, use a microwave on low power for 15-20 seconds to restore warmth without compromising the cake's delicate structure.

FAQs About Mary Berry Pineapple Upside Down Cake

  • Why do I need to pat dry the pineapple rings?

Patting the pineapple rings dry prevents excess moisture from making the cake soggy and helps the fruit caramelize better during baking.

  • Can I use canned or fresh pineapple?

Canned pineapple rings work best for this recipe as they are uniform in size and already sliced, making arrangement easier.

  • What if I don't have self-raising flour?

You can make your own by adding 2 teaspoons of baking powder and 1/4 teaspoon of salt to every cup of all-purpose flour.

  • How do I know when the cake is fully baked?

Insert a skewer into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean without wet batter, the cake is done.

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Pineapple Upside Down Cake Recipe

Pineapple Upside Down Cake Recipe


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4.7 from 24 reviews

  • Total Time: 45-50 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Sweet nostalgia meets tropical delight in this classic Pineapple Upside Down Cake, where caramelized rings and golden cake create a harmonious dessert. Rich buttery layers and juicy fruit promise a memorable slice that brings comfort and joy to any gathering.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 250 grams (8.8 ounces) canned pineapple rings
  • 175 grams (6.2 ounces) unsalted butter, softened
  • 175 grams (6.2 ounces) caster sugar
  • 3 eggs
  • 175 grams (6.2 ounces) self-raising flour

Syrup and Topping Ingredients:

  • 4 tablespoons light brown sugar
  • 60 grams (2.1 ounces) unsalted butter

Additional Ingredients:

  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 pinch of salt
  • 2 tablespoons milk

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven at 180°C (170°C fan) or Gas Mark 4. Thoroughly coat a deep 20cm cake tin with butter and optionally line the base with parchment paper.
  2. Create a caramel base by gently melting butter and light brown sugar over low heat until smooth and uniform. Pour the mixture into the prepared tin, ensuring even coverage.
  3. Thoroughly drain pineapple rings and pat dry with paper towels. Strategically place one whole ring in the center of the tin, surrounding it with carefully halved rings.
  4. Cream butter and caster sugar in a large mixing bowl until the mixture becomes light, airy, and pale in color.
  5. Incorporate eggs into the mixture gradually, ensuring complete integration after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract to enhance the flavor profile.
  6. Sift together dry ingredients: self-raising flour, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold into the wet mixture, using milk to achieve a smooth, consistent batter.
  7. Delicately spoon the batter over the arranged pineapple rings, spreading carefully to maintain the fruit’s positioning.
  8. Bake for 35-40 minutes, checking doneness by inserting a skewer into the center – it should come out clean when the cake is fully cooked.
  9. Allow the cake to rest in the tin for 2 minutes. Quickly invert onto a serving plate by placing the plate over the tin and flipping in one decisive motion.
  10. Serve the cake warm or at room temperature, accompanied by a scoop of ice cream, dollop of custard, or cloud of whipped cream.

Notes

  • Pat pineapple rings thoroughly to prevent excess moisture from making the cake soggy and ensuring a crisp caramel topping.
  • Use room temperature ingredients like butter and eggs to create a smoother, more evenly mixed batter that rises perfectly.
  • Replace dairy milk with almond or coconut milk for a lactose-free version, maintaining the cake’s rich texture and flavor.
  • Sprinkle some toasted coconut flakes or chopped nuts over the cake for added crunch and depth of flavor before serving.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 342
  • Sugar: 35g
  • Sodium: 110mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 11g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg
Truc Tran (Kris)

Truc Tran (Kris)

Senior Food Editor

Expertise

Home Cooking, Meal Planning, Recipe Development, Baking and Pastry, Food Editor, Cooking-video Maker, Vietnamese Food Evaluation Expert

Education

  • Hospitality (Commercial Cookery) at TasTAFE
  • Culinary Arts at Kendall College (Australia Branch in Sydney)
  • Vietnamese Cuisine Head Chef at HNAAu School (Vietnam, International Joint Training Program)

Truc Tran (Kris), an experienced food writer and editor, is great at exploring and describing global cuisines, from simple street food to fancy dining. In her writing, she skillfully mixes different flavors, cooking methods, and culinary traditions, showing the unique character of various cultures through their food and drinks. On azcuisines.com, Kris highlights her knowledge, especially in Asian cuisine and worldwide traditional dishes.

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