Description
This Cranberry Pineapple Upside-Down Cake takes the classic dessert to a new level with tart cranberries and caramelized pineapple. Perfectly moist and bursting with flavor, this eye-catching dessert is ideal for holidays or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 8 slices canned pineapple, drained
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
For the Cake Batter:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Substitutions:
- Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
- Substitute coconut milk for regular milk for a tropical twist.
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake Pan:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9-inch square cake pan or line it with parchment paper for easy release.
- Create the Caramel Layer:
- Pour the melted butter into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Evenly sprinkle the brown sugar over the butter.
- Arrange the pineapple slices in a single layer and scatter the fresh cranberries in the gaps.
- Prepare the Batter:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Add the eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Pour the batter evenly over the fruit layer in the pan, smoothing the top.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Invert:
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
- Place a serving plate over the pan and carefully invert the cake onto the plate.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh cranberries for the best flavor and texture.
- Avoid overmixing the batter to ensure a light and fluffy cake.
- For extra insurance against sticking, line the bottom of the pan with parchment paper before greasing.