Easy Pineapple Upside Down Cake Recipe

Easy Pineapple Upside Down Cake Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 2/3 cup margarine, divided
  • 2/3 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 can (20 ounces) pineapple slices (such as Dole)
  • 10 maraschino cherries
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar, divided
  • 2 eggs, separated
  • 1 teaspoon grated lemon peel
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 3/4 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup sour cream

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Oven and Pan:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
    • In a 10-inch cast-iron skillet, melt 1/3 cup of margarine over medium heat. Remove from heat and stir in the brown sugar until well blended.
  2. Arrange the Fruit:
    • Drain the pineapple slices, reserving 2 tablespoons of the syrup. Arrange the pineapple slices over the sugar mixture in the skillet. Place a maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple slice.
  3. Make the Cake Batter:
    • In a mixing bowl, beat the remaining 1/3 cup margarine with 1/2 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
    • Add the egg yolks, lemon peel, lemon juice, and vanilla extract, and beat well.
    • In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the creamed margarine mixture, alternating with the sour cream and the reserved pineapple syrup, mixing until just combined.
  4. Prepare the Meringue:
    • In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites to soft peaks. Gradually add the remaining 1/4 cup granulated sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
    • Gently fold the meringue into the cake batter.
  5. Assemble and Bake:
    • Pour the batter over the pineapple slices in the skillet, spreading evenly.
    • Bake for 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
  6. Invert the Cake:
    • Allow the cake to stand in the skillet for 10 minutes after baking. Carefully invert the cake onto a serving plate.
  7. Serve:
    • Serve the cake warm or at room temperature, enjoying the caramelized pineapple and cherry topping.

This pineapple upside-down cake is a delightful treat that combines the tang of pineapple with the sweetness of cherries and a fluffy cake base. Perfect for any occasion!