Pineapple Upside Down Cake

The Timeless Delight of Pineapple Upside Down Cake

The Pineapple Upside Down Cake is a classic dessert that has graced the tables of many for generations. Its origins are as rich as its flavour, tracing back to the early 20th century when canned pineapples became widely available. This cake is a testament to the ingenuity of home bakers who sought to create something extraordinary from simple, accessible ingredients.

As you prepare to bake this iconic dessert, you can almost feel the warmth of tradition enveloping you. The process begins with the topping, which will eventually become the beautiful, caramelized crown of the cake. Golden pineapple rings are meticulously arranged in a buttery, brown sugar glaze, each slice promising a burst of tangy sweetness. At the centre of each ring, a maraschino cherry adds a pop of colour and a hint of nostalgia.

The cake itself is a marvel of balance and texture. The self-rising flour ensures a light and airy foundation, while the buttermilk adds a subtle tang that complements the sweetness of the pineapple. The addition of sour cream enriches the batter, giving it a luxurious mouthfeel that makes each bite melt in your mouth. The raw sugar, with its molasses-like undertones, deepens the flavour profile, creating a more complex taste than ordinary white sugar could offer.

As the cake bakes, the aroma that fills the air is intoxicating. It speaks of comfort, of home, and of celebrations both grand and intimate. The anticipation builds as the timer ticks down, and the moment of inversion is nothing short of magical. The cake is flipped to reveal a glistening mosaic of pineapple and cherries, set against a golden-brown canvas.

The Pineapple Upside Down Cake is not just a dessert; it’s an experience. It’s the joy of seeing the caramelized fruits glisten like jewels. It’s the satisfaction of slicing through the moist, tender crumb. It’s the pleasure of tasting the harmonious blend of flavours—tropical pineapple, rich butter, and sweet cherries—that come together in this delightful confection.

To serve a Pineapple Upside Down Cake is to offer a piece of history, a slice of comfort, and a spoonful of joy. It’s a dessert that transcends time, appealing to the modern palate while still evoking the sweet simplicity of bygone days. Whether enjoyed at a festive gathering or savoured in a quiet moment alone, this cake is sure to bring smiles and contentment.

Topping:

• 1 can (565g) Pineapple Slices, drained (reserve the juice for the cake)
• 12 Maraschino Cherries, stems removed
• 50g Butter, melted
• 1/2 cup Brown Sugar, for that caramelized sweetness

Cake:

• 1/2 cup Self-rising Flour, sifted
• 1/3 cup Buttermilk
• 1/4 cup Pineapple Juice
• 1/4 cup Sour Cream
• 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
• 1/2 cup Raw Sugar
• 2 Eggs, room temperature
• 120g Butter, cubed and softened
• 1/4 tsp Salt, 
• Any leftover Pineapple, chopped, for extra fruity bites

Method:

1. Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit).
2. For the topping, pour the melted butter into the bottom of a round cake pan and sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over it.
3. Arrange the pineapple slices to cover the bottom of the pan and place a cherry in the centre of each pineapple ring.
4. In a mixing bowl, cream together the 120g softened butter and raw sugar until light and fluffy.
5. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
6. In another bowl, whisk together the self-rising flour and salt.
7. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients into the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk and pineapple juice, starting and ending with the flour mixture.
8. Fold in the sour cream and any leftover chopped pineapple.
9. Carefully pour the cake batter over the pineapple layer in the cake pan.
10. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.
11. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then invert it onto a serving plate.
12. Serve warm or at room temperature and enjoy the tropical sweetness with every slice!

This Pineapple Upside Down Cake is sure to be a hit with its moist sponge and caramelized fruit topping. Enjoy your baking adventure!