How to make pineapple upside-down cake with cake mix.
Growing up, pineapple upside-down cake was a favorite in our home. It had a moist, buttery cake, sweet caramelized pineapple, and bright maraschino cherries. This mix of flavors always made me happy. Now, as an adult, I love making this dessert at home and I’m excited to share my recipe with you.
With simple ingredients and a yellow cake mix, you can make a big pineapple upside-down cake. The trick is using pineapple juice instead of water in the mix. This makes the cake incredibly moist and tasty. Add a brown sugar topping, juicy pineapple slices, and maraschino cherries for a dessert that everyone will love.
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What is a pineapple upside-down cake?
Pineapple upside-down cake is a classic American dessert loved by many. It has a moist, buttery yellow cake. This cake is topped with a sweet, sticky brown sugar glaze.
It’s also decorated with juicy pineapple rings and vibrant maraschino cherries. The caramelized brown sugar topping adds a glossy finish. This makes each bite a delightful flavor experience.
This dessert became popular in the 1920s in the United States. It’s still a favorite today. The recipe often uses two 20-ounce cans of pineapple rings for a 9 X 13 cake.
You can make it with a white cake mix. You can also use yellow cake mix or a gluten-free alternative. This makes it easy to customize to your taste.
| Cake Mix Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Oil | 1/3 cup |
| Egg Whites | 3 |
| Water | 1 cup |
The cake batter bakes for 40 to 45 minutes at 350°F. After baking, let it cool for 4 to 5 minutes. Then, invert it onto a serving plate or cake stand.
While you can use less butter and brown sugar for a lighter topping, it’s not recommended. It might change the cake’s classic flavor.
You can try different variations of pineapple upside-down cake. Use pineapple chunks, tidbits, or crushed pineapple instead of rings. You can also add fresh pineapple for a richer flavor.
A pineapple upside-down cake mix and topping are available for purchase. This makes it easy to enjoy this timeless dessert with little effort.
Ingredients needed for pineapple upside down cake mix
To make a tasty pineapple upside-down cake, you need just a few things. You’ll need a yellow cake mix, a can of pineapple slices, unsalted butter, brown sugar, and maraschino cherries. The pineapple juice from the can adds extra moisture and flavor.
Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
- Cake Mix: 1 box of yellow cake mix, such as Betty Crocker™ SuperMoist™.
- Pineapple Slices: 1 (20 oz) can of pineapple slices in juice.
- Butter: 1/4 cup (half a stick) of unsalted butter, melted.
- Brown Sugar: 1 cup of packed brown sugar.
- Maraschino Cherries: 1 (6 oz) jar of maraschino cherries, without stems.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Yellow Cake Mix | 1 box |
| Canned Pineapple Slices | 1 (20 oz) can |
| Unsalted Butter | 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) |
| Brown Sugar | 1 cup, packed |
| Maraschino Cherries | 1 (6 oz) jar |
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a moist and delicious pineapple upside-down cake. It’s certain to wow your family and friends.
Preparing the pineapple upside down cake mix
Creating a delightful pineapple upside-down cake is easy with a cake mix. Here’s how to make the cake batter and arrange the layers:
Preparing the Cake Batter
First, preheat your oven to 350°F. Coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. Then, melt butter and sprinkle brown sugar over it.
- In a big bowl, mix the yellow cake mix, pineapple juice, eggs, and oil. Make sure the batter is smooth and well-mixed.
- Pour the cake batter over the brown sugar mixture in the dish. Be gentle so you don’t mess up the sugar layer.
Arranging the Pineapple
Place pineapple slices over the brown sugar, one layer deep. Place a maraschino cherry in the center of each slice. This will make the cake’s signature design when it’s flipped.
Bake the cake for 40-45 minutes. It’s done when a toothpick in the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for 5 minutes before flipping it onto a platter or cutting board.
Follow these steps for a moist and tasty pineapple upside-down cake. Enjoy the sweet pineapple and caramelized flavors in every bite!
Baking tips for a perfect pineapple upside down cake mix
Making a tasty pineapple upside-down cake with a mix needs some special tips. First, dry the pineapple slices with a paper towel before placing them in the pan. This step removes extra moisture, so your cake won’t be soggy.
To check if the cake is done, the center should be firm, and a toothpick should come out clean. Baking it too long can make it dry and hard. So, watch the oven closely and don’t let the cake cool in the pan for too long. Turning the cake onto a platter while it’s still warm helps it not stick and makes it easy to remove.
- Blot pineapple slices with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Bake the cake until the center is set, and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Invert the cake onto a serving platter while it’s still warm to prevent sticking.
By using these easy pineapple upside-down cake baking tips, you can make a moist and tasty dessert. It will impress everyone with its sweet pineapple, buttery cake, and maraschino cherries.
“The secret to a perfect pineapple upside-down cake lies in controlling the moisture levels. Blotting the pineapple and not overbaking are essential for avoiding a soggy or dry result.”
Substitutions and variations for pineapple upside down cake mix
Want to try something different? Use fresh pineapple slices instead of canned. Make sure to add any juice from cutting the pineapple to the mix. For a tropical flavor, swap vegetable oil with melted coconut oil.
Looking for a different cake? Try a white cake mix for a unique taste. Bake it in a 9-inch bundt pan for a stunning ring-shaped dessert.
Unique Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Variations
- Slow Cooker Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: Enjoy this nostalgic dessert with a hands-off cooking method.
- Pineapple Upside-Down Cheesecake: Indulge in a creamy, pineapple-infused twist on the classic.
- Carrot Cake with Pineapple Upside-Down Topping: Combine the flavors of carrot cake with the signature pineapple topping.
Whether you stick to the classic or try new twists, there’s a way to make pineapple upside-down cake your own. Enjoy this timeless dessert in a way that suits your taste.
Serving and storing pineapple upside down cake mix
When you serve your pineapple upside-down cake, let it cool for about 15 minutes first. This makes it easier to slice and keeps the flavors together. You can enjoy it warm or add whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a special treat.
For leftovers, store the cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw the slices in the fridge overnight to serve.
| Serving Suggestions | Storing Leftovers |
|---|---|
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Enjoying pineapple upside down cake is always special. These tips ensure it’s perfect every time. With good storage of leftovers and the option to freeze, you can enjoy it whenever you want.
Why use a cake mix for pineapple upside-down cake?
Pineapple upside-down cake is a timeless dessert cherished by many. You can make it from scratch or use a cake mix for convenience. The mix provides a moist base, while pineapple juice and brown sugar add the signature flavors.
This recipe is quick and perfect for busy times. It only takes 15 minutes to prepare and 1 hour and 30 minutes to make. You’ll have a beautiful pineapple upside-down cake ready to share.
Using a cake mix saves you time in the kitchen. You can spend more quality time with family and friends. The cake is moist and tastes like homemade, even though it’s made with a simple cake mix.
“Utilizing a cake mix for pineapple upside-down cake is a real game-changer. It’s the perfect balance of convenience and homemade flavor.”
Looking for an easy dessert? A cake mix is a great choice for pineapple upside-down cake. It’s quick to make and always a hit with family and friends.
Pineapple upside down cake mix troubleshooting
Baking a pineapple upside-down cake with a cake mix can sometimes present a few challenges. Let’s explore some common issues and how to overcome them for a perfectly moist and flavorful dessert.
Avoiding a Soggy Cake
One common problem with pineapple upside-down cake is a soggy texture. To prevent this, be sure to blot the pineapple slices with a paper towel before arranging them in the pan. This will help soak up any excess moisture from the fruit. Additionally, consider using crushed pineapple instead of rings, as the smaller pieces may release less liquid during baking.
Easily Removing the Cake from the Pan
If the pineapple upside-down cake cools for too long in the baking dish, it can be difficult to flip and remove from the pan. The sticky brown sugar sauce acts like glue, holding the cake in place. To avoid this, simply pop the cake back into the hot oven for 2-3 minutes to melt the sugar and loosen the cake before inverting it onto a serving platter.
Preventing Cake Cracks or Sinking
- Ensure your oven is properly preheated to the recommended temperature before baking.
- Avoid opening the oven door repeatedly during baking, as this can cause the cake to sink or crack.
- Check the cake with a toothpick to ensure it’s fully baked through before removing it from the oven.
By addressing these common pineapple upside-down cake mix issues, you’ll be well on your way to creating a moist, flavorful, and visually stunning dessert that’s sure to impress your guests.
Conclusion
Pineapple upside-down cake made with a cake mix is a classic, crowd-pleasing dessert. It’s easy to make and always impresses. By using a few simple shortcuts, you can make a moist, flavorful cake with minimal effort.
This recipe has been viewed 5,295 times, showing its popularity. Baking at 350 degrees F for 40 minutes and cooling for 15 minutes results in a delicious cake. It’s packed with flavor, with 262 calories and 14g of fat per serving.
Looking to add a touch of retro charm to your next gathering? Or just want an easy-to-make treat? This pineapple upside-down cake made with a cake mix is perfect. With tips for customizing and troubleshooting, you’ll make a dessert everyone will love.