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### Instructions
#### Step 1: Prepare the Topping
1. **Melt Butter and Sugar**: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the brown sugar and stir until the mixture is smooth and begins to bubble, about 2-3 minutes.
2. **Arrange Pineapple**: Pour the brown sugar and butter mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch round cake pan. Arrange the drained pineapple slices over the sugar mixture in a circular pattern. Place a maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple ring, if desired, for a classic touch.
#### Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
1. **Preheat the Oven**: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour the sides of the cake pan (if not using a non-stick pan) to ensure easy removal of the cake later.
2. **Mix Dry Ingredients**: In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. **Cream Butter and Sugar**: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes using an electric mixer.
4. **Add Eggs and Vanilla**: Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. **Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients**: Alternately add the dry ingredients and the pineapple juice and milk to the butter mixture. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter.
#### Step 3: Assemble the Cake
1. **Pour the Batter**: Carefully pour the cake batter over the pineapple topping in the cake pan. Spread it out evenly with a spatula to cover the fruit.
#### Step 4: Bake the Cake
1. **Bake**: Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
2. **Cool for a Few Minutes**: Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 5-10 minutes. This will allow the caramelized topping to set before flipping.
#### Step 5: Flip and Serve
1. **Invert the Cake**: To remove the cake, run a knife around the edge of the pan to loosen it, then carefully flip the pan onto a serving plate. Let the pan sit for a minute, then gently lift it off. The pineapple topping should now be on top, glistening with a rich, caramelized glaze.
2. **Serve**: Let the cake cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm, and for an extra indulgent touch, enjoy it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
### Tips for Making the Perfect Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
– **Use Fresh Pineapple**: While canned pineapple is convenient and works well, using fresh pineapple can elevate the flavor. Just slice the pineapple into rings and proceed as directed. However, fresh pineapple might release more juice, so adjust the baking time slightly if needed.
– **Even Caramelization**: When melting the butter and brown sugar for the topping, be sure to stir continuously to avoid burning the sugar. It’s important to cook the mixture just enough for the sugar to dissolve and create a smooth caramel.
– **Non-stick Pan**: If you have a non-stick cake pan, it’s the best choice for making pineapple upside-down cake, as it ensures a smooth release of the cake without sticking to the sides.
– **Make-Ahead Option**: This cake is perfect for making ahead. You can bake it a day in advance, just make sure to store it covered at room temperature. Reheat it gently before serving for the best taste.
– **Flavor Variations**: Experiment with different fruits for your upside-down cake! You can try substituting the pineapple with peaches, apples, or cherries for a fun twist.
### Why You’ll Love Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
The charm of pineapple upside-down cake lies in its irresistible combination of sweet, juicy pineapple and buttery, fluffy cake. The caramelized brown sugar topping adds a depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the light and airy texture of the cake. It’s a dessert that is as visually appealing as it is delicious, with the golden pineapple rings creating a stunning finish that will impress your guests. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just as a treat, pineapple upside-down cake never disappoints.
### Conclusion
Pineapple upside-down cake is a timeless dessert that brings both tropical flair and homey comfort to your kitchen. It’s a cake that combines simplicity and elegance, with its golden, sticky topping and moist, flavorful cake. This recipe is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table and will likely become a favorite in your dessert rotation. Whether you’re baking it for a family gathering, potluck, or just to enjoy with a cup of tea, pineapple upside-down cake is always a sweet choice!
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