Crushed Pineapple Upside Down Cake Cast Iron Skillet

[Homemade] Skillet Pineapple UpsideDown Cake Pineapple upside down

Cover [Homemade] Skillet Pineapple UpsideDown Cake Pineapple upside down (1960x2519)

Table of Contents

• What is a Skillet Pineapple Upside Down Cake?
• How do you make a Skillet Pineapple Upside Down Cake?
• What are some variations of the Skillet Pineapple Upside Down Cake?
• What are the benefits of using a skillet for this cake?
• Can I use canned pineapple for this recipe?

What is a Skillet Pineapple Upside Down Cake?

A Skillet Pineapple Upside Down Cake is a delicious dessert that features a caramelized pineapple topping and a moist, buttery cake. The cake is baked in a cast iron skillet, which gives it a unique flavor and texture. The pineapple slices are arranged in the bottom of the skillet, topped with a brown sugar and butter mixture, and then the cake batter is poured on top. During baking, the pineapple and caramel topping seep into the cake, creating a sweet and tangy flavor combination. Once the cake is done baking, it is flipped over onto a serving plate, so the caramelized pineapple becomes the top of the cake.

How do you make a Skillet Pineapple Upside Down Cake?

To make a Skillet Pineapple Upside Down Cake, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 can (20 ounces) pineapple slices in juice, drained
• Maraschino cherries, for garnish (optional)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup milk

Here are the steps to make the cake:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Melt 1/2 cup of butter in a 10-inch cast iron skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the brown sugar to the melted butter and stir until the sugar has dissolved.
4. Arrange the pineapple slices in a single layer on top of the brown sugar mixture.
5. If desired, place a maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple slice.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
7. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
8. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
9. Stir in the vanilla extract.
10. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
11. Pour the cake batter over the pineapple slices in the skillet, spreading it evenly.
12. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
13. Remove the skillet from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes.
14. Invert the cake onto a serving plate, carefully lifting the skillet away.
15. Allow the cake to cool completely before serving.

What are some variations of the Skillet Pineapple Upside Down Cake?

While the classic Skillet Pineapple Upside Down Cake is delicious on its own, there are several variations you can try to add some extra flavor and texture to the cake:

1. Coconut Pineapple Upside Down Cake: Add shredded coconut to the brown sugar and butter mixture before arranging the pineapple slices. This will give the cake a tropical twist and a slightly chewy texture.

2. Rum Pineapple Upside Down Cake: Replace a portion of the milk in the cake batter with dark rum. This will add a rich, boozy flavor to the cake.

3. Cherry Pineapple Upside Down Cake: Place a maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple slice before adding the cake batter. This will add a burst of sweetness and color to the cake.

4. Upside Down Apple Cake: Replace the pineapple slices with thinly sliced apples. You can also add cinnamon and nutmeg to the brown sugar and butter mixture for a warm, spiced flavor.

5. Peach Upside Down Cake: Use canned or fresh peach slices instead of pineapple. Peaches have a sweet, juicy flavor that pairs well with the caramelized topping.

What are the benefits of using a skillet for this cake?

Using a skillet to bake the Pineapple Upside Down Cake offers several benefits:

1. Even Heat Distribution: Cast iron skillets are known for their excellent heat retention and distribution. This ensures that the cake bakes evenly, resulting in a moist and tender texture.

2. Caramelization: The caramelization of the brown sugar and butter mixture in the skillet creates a rich, sticky topping for the cake. This adds a depth of flavor and a beautiful golden color to the dessert.

3. Enhanced Flavor: Baking the cake in a cast iron skillet infuses it with a subtle smoky flavor that complements the sweetness of the pineapple and caramelized topping.

4. Easy Serving: Inverting the cake onto a serving plate is much easier with a skillet. The weight and shape of the skillet help to release the cake from the pan without breaking or sticking.

5. Versatility: Cast iron skillets can be used for a variety of cooking tasks, making them a versatile tool in the kitchen. After making the cake, you can use the skillet for frying, sautéing, or even baking other desserts.

Can I use canned pineapple for this recipe?

Yes, you can use canned pineapple for this recipe. Canned pineapple slices are convenient and readily available all year round. When using canned pineapple, make sure to drain the slices well to remove any excess juice. The excess juice can make the cake too moist and prevent it from baking properly.

If you prefer to use fresh pineapple, make sure to peel and core the pineapple before slicing it. Fresh pineapple can add a vibrant and tangy flavor to the cake.

Whether you choose to use canned or fresh pineapple, the Skillet Pineapple Upside Down Cake will be a delicious and crowd-pleasing dessert.

Conclusion

The Skillet Pineapple Upside Down Cake is a classic dessert that combines the sweetness of caramelized pineapple with a moist and buttery cake. Baking the cake in a cast iron skillet adds a unique flavor and texture to the dessert. With its simple yet delicious ingredients, this cake is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you follow the classic recipe or experiment with different variations, the Skillet Pineapple Upside Down Cake is a delightful treat that will satisfy any sweet tooth.