Get ready to transform your baking game with a dessert that's not just a cake, but a sensational flavor journey! This Pineapple Ginger and Cherry Upside Down Cake is the ultimate showstopper that combines the sweet tanginess of tropical fruits with a warm, spicy ginger kick. Imagine cutting into a golden, caramelized masterpiece where juicy pineapple slices and vibrant cherries create an irresistible mosaic of color and taste. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or craving a weekend treat, this cake promises to be the star attraction that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can pineapple slices
- 1 cup cherries, pitted
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan thoroughly with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
- In a small saucepan, melt 1/2 cup butter and brown sugar together over medium heat. Stir continuously until the mixture becomes smooth and caramel-like, about 3-4 minutes.
- Pour the caramel mixture into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
- Arrange pineapple slices in a decorative pattern on top of the caramel, then place pitted cherries in the spaces between the pineapple slices.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and ground ginger. Whisk together until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, beat eggs and milk together until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a smooth cake batter forms. Be careful not to overmix.
- Carefully pour the cake batter over the arranged pineapple and cherries, ensuring an even distribution.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove from oven and let cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
- Place a large serving plate over the cake pan and carefully invert the cake, allowing the caramel, pineapple, and cherries to form a beautiful topping.
- Let the cake cool completely before serving. Serve at room temperature and optionally garnish with a sprinkle of additional ground ginger.
Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs, milk, and butter are at room temperature for a smoother, more consistent batter.
- Caramel Care: When making the caramel base, stir continuously and watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Fruit Placement: Arrange pineapple slices and cherries carefully for a visually stunning presentation.
- Don't Overmix: Mix cake batter just until ingredients are combined to keep the cake tender.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow the cake to cool for 10 minutes in the pan before inverting to help the caramel set and prevent sticking.
- Serve at Room Temperature: This allows the flavors to fully develop and the texture to be at its most delicious.Pro Tip: For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a light dusting of cinnamon or a splash of rum to the caramel base!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 85mg