Crushed Pineapple Upside Down Cake Recipe

Previous Next

Cook Time: 20 minutes

This classic dessert is full of tropical flavor, combining sweet pineapple, rich brown sugar, and a fluffy yellow cake base. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe yields 12 servings of pure deliciousness.

Ingredients

• 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple in syrup
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 (15.25 ounce) box yellow cake mix (such as Pillsbury)
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• Sweetened whipped cream, for serving
• Maraschino cherries and chopped toasted pecans, for serving (optional)

Directions

Step 1: Gather all your ingredients. Preheat the oven to 350F (175C). Spray a 13x9-inch baking pan with baking spray, line the bottom with parchment paper, and lightly spray the parchment. Set aside.

Step 2: Drain the crushed pineapple into a fine-mesh sieve set over a medium bowl. Set the pineapple aside. Reserve 3/4 cup of the pineapple juice in a measuring cup and add water to make 1 cup total. Set aside.

Step 3: In a small saucepan, add the brown sugar and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the butter melts and the sugar mixture is well combined (about 3 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in cinnamon and vanilla extract.

Step 4: Spread the brown sugar mixture evenly in the prepared baking pan using a small offset spatula. Spoon the drained pineapple on top in an even layer.

Step 5: In a large bowl, prepare the cake mix according to the package directions, but substitute the pineapple juice mixture for the water. Pour the cake batter evenly over the pineapple layer.

Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until a wooden pick inserted into the center comes out clean. Run a butter knife or small offset spatula around the edge of the pan to loosen the cake.

Step 7: Carefully place a heatproof platter over the pan. Invert the cake onto the platter, remove the parchment paper, and, if necessary, use any leftover pineapple or brown sugar mixture from the pan to cover any bare spots on the cake.

Step 8: Let the cake cool for 30 minutes before slicing and serving. Serve warm or at room temperature with whipped cream. Garnish with maraschino cherries and chopped toasted pecans if desired.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 374
• Fat: 18g (23% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 5g (26% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 62mg (21% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 286mg (12% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 52g (19% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 1g (3% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 37g
• Protein: 3g (6% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 4mg (5% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 106mg (8% Daily Value)
• Iron: 1mg (7% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 115mg (2% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Crushed Pineapple Upside Down Cake is a beloved American dessert, known for its moist texture and delightful tropical flavor. The cake features a layer of sweet, caramelized pineapple at the bottom, which becomes the top when the cake is inverted after baking. This charming twist on the traditional pineapple upside-down cake is often enjoyed at gatherings, potlucks, and family dinners. It pairs well with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Origin of the Crushed Pineapple Upside Down Cake

The concept of upside-down cakes has been around since the early 1900s, but the specific combination of pineapple and caramelized sugar dates back to the 1920s. In fact, it was the Dole Pineapple Company, a major producer of canned pineapple, that popularized the pineapple upside-down cake in the United States. The use of crushed pineapple in this variation offers a more uniform texture, and the crushed pieces blend beautifully with the rich brown sugar and butter mixture, creating a moist and flavorful cake.

Regional Characteristics

This cake is a staple in American baking traditions, particularly in the Southern and Southwestern regions where pineapple was once widely grown. The use of canned pineapple, which made the fruit accessible year-round, helped the cake become a favorite in households across the country. While the traditional upside-down cake uses whole pineapple rings, the crushed version gives a more uniform, tender texture, which is ideal for those who prefer a smoother consistency.

How It Differs From Similar Dishes

While there are many variations of upside-down cakes, the Crushed Pineapple Upside Down Cake stands out due to the use of crushed pineapple, which gives it a distinct texture and flavor. Traditional pineapple upside-down cakes typically use pineapple rings, which can create a more structured presentation. The crushed version, however, offers a more evenly distributed sweetness and a richer, moister crumb. Additionally, the crushed pineapple version often requires less prep time, making it an easy and accessible dessert option.

Where Is It Typically Served?

The Crushed Pineapple Upside Down Cake is a popular dessert at gatherings and celebrations, from casual family dinners to large church potlucks. Its easy preparation and delightful taste make it a go-to choice for events where a simple yet impressive dessert is needed. Its often served warm, but it can also be enjoyed at room temperature. Garnishing with whipped cream, maraschino cherries, or toasted pecans adds a festive touch, making it a perfect dish for both informal and special occasions.

Interesting Facts

• Upside-down cakes became popular in the 1920s, when canned pineapple was introduced to American kitchens by the Dole Pineapple Company.
• The original upside-down cakes were baked in cast-iron skillets, which helped caramelize the sugar and fruit on the bottom of the cake.
• Crushed pineapple is often used in this recipe instead of pineapple rings, as it creates a smoother, more integrated texture.
• While traditional upside-down cakes use butter in the topping, many modern variations, including this one, add a touch of cinnamon and vanilla to enhance the flavor profile.
• This cake is a favorite choice for potluck events and is often requested by family members and friends alike.

Whether you're making it for a family dinner, a holiday celebration, or just because you crave something sweet, the Crushed Pineapple Upside Down Cake is sure to please with its tropical flavors and moist texture. It's a cake that has stood the test of time, continuously delighting generations of cake lovers.

FAQ about Crushed Pineapple Upside Down Cake Recipe

Comments