Chef John's Pineapple Upside-Down Cake

Rate this recipe
Be the first to rate
By Published

Are you a fan of sweet and tangy desserts? If so, then Chef John's Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is a must-try!

Jump to recipePin it
Chef John's Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
Prep
15 min
Cook
45 min
Total
1 hr 20 min
Servings
12

Method

  1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).

  2. In a 12-inch cast iron skillet over medium-low heat, melt 1/4 cup butter. Add brown sugar, pineapple juice, and dark rum. Cook until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is bubbling, about 5 minutes.

  3. Remove from heat and arrange pineapple slices in a layer, completely covering the brown sugar mixture. Set aside.

  4. In a small skillet over low heat, melt 1/2 cup butter until it begins to brown and release a nutty fragrance, about 5 minutes. Be careful not to burn the butter. Remove from heat and let cool for 10 minutes.

  5. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cardamom, salt, baking powder, and white sugar. Add egg and cold milk, whisking until just combined. Pour in the melted butter and stir until thoroughly mixed.

  6. Pour the batter over the pineapple slices in the skillet, spreading it evenly to cover.

  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the cake begins to bubble around the edges, the top is browned, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

  8. Allow the cake to cool in the skillet for 10 minutes.

  9. Use a knife to loosen the cake from the skillet by running it around the inside edge of the cake. Place a large plate over the

About this recipe

Are you a fan of sweet and tangy desserts? If so, then Chef John's Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is a must-try! This classic cake is a delightful combination of caramelized pineapple slices, buttery cake, and a hint of warm spices. It's a perfect treat for any occasion or simply as a sweet indulgence.

The Sweet Symphony of Flavors

Imagine sinking your teeth into a moist cake that is infused with the natural sweetness of caramelized pineapple. As you take a bite, your taste buds dance with joy as the fruity flavors blend harmoniously with the rich buttery cake. The tanginess of the pineapple cuts through the sweetness, creating a perfect balance of flavors. It's like a symphony of taste in every mouthful!

A Cake That Looks as Good as it Tastes

Not only does Chef John's Pineapple Upside-Down Cake taste amazing, but it also looks absolutely stunning. The beautiful caramelized pineapple slices on top of the cake create a captivating visual appeal. It's like a work of art that you can eat! Whether you're serving it to guests or treating yourself, this cake is sure to impress.

Easy to Make, Hard to Resist

Don't let the fancy name fool you - Chef John's Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is surprisingly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic baking techniques, you can create a masterpiece in your own kitchen. The recipe is beginner-friendly, so even if you're not an experienced baker, you can still achieve delicious results.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use canned pineapple for this recipe?

Absolutely! Canned pineapple works just as well as fresh pineapple. Just make sure to drain it properly before using.

Can I substitute the butter with margarine?

While you can use margarine as a substitute, keep in mind that it may alter the taste and texture of the cake slightly. Butter is recommended for the best results.

Can I use a different fruit instead of pineapple?

Yes, you can experiment with different fruits such as peaches or cherries. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I freeze the cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.

Can I use a different type of cake batter?

While the traditional recipe uses a buttery cake batter, you can certainly try different variations such as a vanilla or chocolate cake batter.

How long does the cake stay fresh?

The cake can stay fresh for up to 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature.

Can I add nuts to the cake?

Absolutely! Chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch to the cake. Simply sprinkle them over the pineapple slices before baking.

Can I make individual-sized cakes instead of one large cake?

Yes, you can make individual-sized cakes by using muffin tins or ramekins. Just make sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.

Can I serve the cake warm?

Yes, serving the cake warm is highly recommended. The warm caramelized pineapple and buttery cake create a heavenly combination that is simply irresistible.

In conclusion, Chef John's Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is a delicious masterpiece that will satisfy your sweet tooth. With its perfect balance of flavors and stunning presentation, it's a dessert that will impress both your taste buds and your guests. So, why wait? Get your apron on, gather your ingredients, and embark on a baking adventure that will leave you craving for more!

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

More desserts

See all →