Name: Cranberry Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: PT-492020H38M33S
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup packed brown sugar; 8 slices canned pineapple, drained; 1 cup fresh cranberries; 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

Welcome to the world of desserts, where the Cranberry Pineapple Upside-Down Cake reigns supreme as a festive delight! This recipe offers a sensational celebration of flavors, merging the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of juicy pineapple. Each bite is a burst of joy, making it the perfect centerpiece for any gathering, family dinner, or even a cozy night in. Not only is this cake visually striking with its glistening fruit topping, but it also boasts a moist and fluffy texture that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

One of the best aspects of this Cranberry Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients, you can create a show-stopping dessert that evokes smiles and satisfied sighs. Imagine the aroma filling your kitchen as the cake bakes, tempting everyone waiting to taste this sweet masterpiece. From dessert enthusiasts to novice bakers, it’s a recipe that involves minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor and visual appeal.

This cake is not just about taste; it’s an unforgettable experience. The contrasting textures of the creamy, soft cake against the caramelized fruits create a delightful mouthfeel, while the vibrant colors make it an eye-catching dessert. Whether you’re making it for holidays, birthdays, or just to treat yourself, the Cranberry Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Pineapple Upside-Down Cake

Festive Flavor: The combination of tart cranberries and sweet pineapple creates a unique and flavorful experience.
Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal preparation and simple ingredients, perfect for bakers of all levels.
Gorgeous Presentation: This upside-down cake looks stunning when served, sure to impress your guests.
Versatile: You can easily customize this cake with different fruits or flavors to make it your own.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before jumping into the delicious world of baking, take a moment to prep your kitchen for success. Start by gathering all your ingredients so you won’t have to scramble in the middle of the process. This includes measuring out your melted butter, flour, sugar, and all the other delightful components of your cake. In terms of equipment, you’ll need a 9-inch square cake pan, mixing bowls, a whisk, a spatula, and a measuring cup. It’s also helpful to have a toothpick on hand for testing the cake’s doneness later.

For greasing the cake pan, you can use cooking spray or rub a bit of butter on the sides and bottom of the pan. This will ensure your cake releases easily after baking. Preheating the oven is crucial, so don’t forget that step—it helps the cake rise properly and bake evenly!

Ingredients

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup packed brown sugar
8 slices canned pineapple, drained
1 cup fresh cranberries
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

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is crucial for achieving a golden-brown crust while keeping the cake moist inside. Next, take your 9-inch square cake pan and grease it thoroughly. This is important to ensure that your finished cake comes out in one beautiful piece, with no stubborn bits left behind. Use a paper towel to rub melted butter or cooking spray over the bottom and sides.

Step 2: Create the Caramel Layer

Now that your pan is ready, it’s time to make the delicious caramel layer. Pour the melted butter into the bottom of the pan, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the brown sugar over the butter, layering it out to create an even base. This mixture will melt during baking and soak into the fruits, contributing to the overall flavor. Arrange the pineapple slices neatly in a single layer, and scatter fresh cranberries in the gaps. This not only enhances the look but also infuses the cake with fruity goodness.

Step 3: Prepare the Batter

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Thoroughly combining these dry ingredients ensures even rising and prevents clumping. In another large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is essential, as it incorporates air into the batter, leading to a lighter cake.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Next, add the eggs one by one to your butter-sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition. This keeps the batter smooth and helps with emulsification. Stir in the vanilla extract for a lovely aroma. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and finish with the flour mixture. This helps maintain a smooth consistency without overmixing, which can make the cake dense.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Once your batter is ready, gently pour it over the layered fruit in the cake pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the top, ensuring every fruit piece is covered. Slide the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean. The baking time may vary slightly, so keep an eye on your cake!

Step 6: Cool and Invert

After baking, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This allows it to set before you invert it onto a serving plate. Gently run a knife around the edges to loosen the cake, then place your serving plate upside down on top of the pan. Carefully flip it over, so the fruit is on top. Let the cake cool slightly before serving, allowing the flavors to meld.

Variations

Protein: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for a crunch, or incorporate shredded coconut for a tropical vibe.
Vegetables: Try adding carrots for a unique twist, enhancing moisture and adding nutrients.
Spices: Experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to deepen the flavor profile, bringing warmth to the dish.

Cooking Notes

Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming with sugar.
For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
If using fresh cranberries, ensure they are not overly tart; sweeten slightly if needed.
Store any leftovers covered at room temperature for up to three days to maintain freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a truly indulgent treat.
Garnish with fresh mint leaves to add color and a hint of freshness.

Tips

For best results, let the cake cool completely before storing to prevent sogginess.
Feel free to customize with your favorite fruits – heart-healthy strawberries or juicy cherries could be delicious alternatives!
Prepare the fruit layer ahead of time to save on prep during busy moments.
Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor; avoid stale or old pantry items.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour and 5 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 330 per slice
Protein: 3g
Sodium: 150mg

FAQs

Can I make this cake in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare this cake a day in advance and store it covered at room temperature. Just be sure to let it cool completely before covering to maintain its texture.

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of canned ones?

Yes, you can use fresh cranberries; however, you may want to sweeten them slightly as they can be quite tart when baked.

How do I store leftover cake?

Store the leftover cake covered at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week.

Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, this cake freezes well! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and it can be stored for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving.

Conclusion

The Cranberry Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is more than just dessert; it’s a moment of joy infused with festive colors and mouthwatering flavor! This show-stopping cake makes any occasion feel special and brings people together with its delightful blend of textures and tastes. Whether serving it at a holiday gathering or enjoying it on a quiet afternoon, every bite is bound to elicit smiles and exclamations of delight. So whip up this recipe, experiment with your variations, and let this cake become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection. Don’t forget to share your experiences and thoughts in the comments below – happy baking!