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Classic Homemade Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Recipe Easy Cast Iron Method

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A classic pineapple upside-down cake baked in a cast iron skillet for a perfectly caramelized crust and moist, tender cake. This easy recipe uses simple pantry ingredients and delivers nostalgic, crowd-pleasing flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/4 cup (4 tbsp) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1 can (8 oz) pineapple rings, drained (or fresh pineapple slices about 1/4-inch thick)
  • Maraschino cherries (optional)
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup whole milk (or almond/oat milk for dairy-free)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cast iron skillet in the oven to warm it slightly.
  2. Carefully remove the hot skillet and add the melted butter, swirling to coat the bottom evenly.
  3. Sprinkle the brown sugar over the butter in an even layer.
  4. Arrange the pineapple rings on top of the sugar without overlapping. Place a cherry in the center of each ring if using.
  5. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon until combined.
  6. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
  7. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract, scraping down the sides as needed.
  8. Add the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined.
  9. Pour the batter evenly over the pineapple rings in the skillet, spreading to cover the fruit.
  10. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and edges are golden.
  11. Let the cake cool in the skillet for 10 minutes.
  12. Place a large plate or cutting board over the skillet and carefully invert to release the cake.
  13. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Use a well-seasoned cast iron skillet for best caramelization. If using fresh pineapple, slice about 1/4-inch thick and pat dry. Avoid overlapping pineapple slices to prevent soggy spots. Warm the skillet before adding butter and sugar to help caramelize evenly. Let the cake cool 10 minutes before flipping to avoid sticking. For gluten-free, substitute flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking blend. For vegan, use coconut oil, flax eggs, and plant-based milk.

Nutrition

Keywords: pineapple upside-down cake, cast iron skillet cake, classic dessert, caramelized pineapple cake, easy pineapple cake, nostalgic dessert

Find it online: https://sparklechew.com/classic-homemade-pineapple-upside-down-cake-recipe-easy-cast-iron-method/