By AprilPublished Who doesn't love the combination of sweet and savory? If you're a fan of the unexpected, then you're in for a treat with this delicious grilled pineapple upside down cake.
Preheat an outdoor grill to medium-high heat.
Lay a 12x12-inch sheet of aluminum foil on a flat surface.
Spoon brown sugar and butter onto the center of the foil.
Arrange a pineapple ring over the sugar and place a cherry in the center.
Place an inverted shortcake shell on top of the pineapple ring.
Fold the foil around the cake to create a packet.
Grill the packet with the sugar-side down on the preheated grill until the sugar is caramelized and the cake is heated through, approximately 12 minutes.
Who doesn't love the combination of sweet and savory? If you're a fan of the unexpected, then you're in for a treat with this delicious grilled pineapple upside down cake. Not only does it satisfy your sweet tooth, but it also adds a unique twist by incorporating the smoky flavors of the grill. Let's dive into the world of grilled desserts and discover how this delightful cake can be the star of your next barbecue.
Grilling is often associated with savory dishes like steaks, burgers, and vegetables. But did you know that grilling can also take your desserts to a whole new level? The heat from the grill caramelizes the sugars in the pineapple, giving it a beautiful golden color and intensifying its natural sweetness. Combined with the buttery cake base, it creates a mouthwatering flavor explosion that will leave you craving for more.
Before we get to the grilling process, it's important to prepare the pineapple properly. Start by cutting off the top and bottom of the pineapple, then carefully slice off the skin. Once the skin is removed, cut the pineapple into rings, making sure to remove the tough core from each slice. Now your pineapple is ready to be grilled to perfection.
Fire up the grill and let it reach medium-high heat. Brush the pineapple rings with a light coating of vegetable oil to prevent sticking. Place the pineapple directly on the grill grates and cook for a few minutes on each side until grill marks form. The heat of the grill will not only enhance the sweetness of the pineapple but also give it a slightly smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the cake. Once the pineapple is grilled to perfection, it's time to move on to the cake batter.
Now that your pineapple is ready, it's time to prepare the cake batter. The key to a moist and fluffy cake lies in the ingredients and the mixing process. For this recipe, you'll need flour, sugar, butter, eggs, baking powder, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Combine these ingredients in a mixing bowl and beat until smooth and creamy. The batter should be thick enough to hold the pineapple rings in place without sinking into the cake.
Grab your trusty cake pan and butter the bottom to prevent sticking. Arrange the grilled pineapple rings on the bottom of the pan, making sure they fit snugly. Pour the cake batter over the pineapple, spreading it evenly to cover the rings completely. Once the batter is in place, it's time to let the grill work its magic.
Place the cake pan on the grill, away from direct heat. Close the lid and let the cake cook for about 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The indirect heat from the grill will bake the cake to perfection, giving it a moist texture and a hint of smokiness. While you wait for the cake to cook, indulge in the mouthwatering aroma that fills the air.
Once the cake is done, remove it from the grill and let it cool for a few minutes. Carefully invert the pan onto a serving plate to reveal the beautiful caramelized pineapple topping. The combination of the sweet pineapple, buttery cake, and smoky undertones will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. Serve it warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate indulgence.
Grilled pineapple upside down cake is a delightful twist on a classic dessert. The combination of the caramelized pineapple, buttery cake, and smoky flavors from the grill creates a truly unforgettable taste experience. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue or simply looking to indulge your sweet tooth, this cake will surely impress your guests and leave them craving for more. So fire up the grill, get your ingredients ready, and treat yourself to a slice of this heavenly creation.
Yes, you can use canned pineapple if you don't have fresh pineapple available. Just make sure to drain the pineapple rings well before grilling.
Absolutely! If you don't have a grill or prefer to use your oven, you can bake the cake at 350°F for approximately 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
While pineapple is the traditional choice for an upside-down cake, you can experiment with other fruits like peaches, apples, or even cherries. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Yes, you can make the cake a day in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container at room temperature and warm it up in the microwave or oven before serving.
Absolutely! While a classic butter cake works beautifully with the grilled pineapple, you can also use a yellow cake mix or even a sponge cake recipe for a lighter texture.
Definitely! You can use individual ramekins or small cake pans to create individual servings of grilled pineapple upside down cake. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Of course! Get creative with your toppings and add a sprinkle of toasted coconut, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a handful of chopped nuts for extra flavor and texture.
Yes, you can freeze any leftover cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying.
AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April
