Today’s recipe is super tropical and refreshing, perfect for vacations and hot summer days. We are going to make a delicious classic pineapple upside-down cake. It’s not only incredibly tasty but also beautiful to look at—let’s get started!
Ingredients for the Pineapple Upside-Down Cake:
- 1/2 cup (125g) plain yogurt;
- 1/4 tsp salt;
- 1 1/2 cups (195g) all-purpose flour;
- 2 tsp baking powder;
- 1 tsp vanilla extract;
- 2 large eggs (separated);
- 1 cup granulated sugar;
- 8 pineapple slices;
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon;
- 2 tsp lemon zest;
- 1/2 cup (100g) light brown sugar;
- 6 tbsp (approx. 85g) unsalted butter, softened.
How to make the Pineapple Upside-Down Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C);
- In your baking pan (a round cake pan works best), spread 4 tablespoons of butter over the bottom;
- Evenly sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon over the butter;
- Arrange the pineapple slices on top of the butter and sugar mixture;
- In a stand mixer on high speed, beat the remaining butter, granulated sugar, and lemon zest until light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes;
- Add the egg yolks and vanilla, mixing until smooth;
- Scrape down the sides of the bowl, then mix in the baking powder and salt;
- Gradually mix in the flour, alternating with the yogurt, until just combined;
- In a separate clean bowl, whip the egg whites until stiff peaks form and gently fold them into the batter;
- Pour the cake batter over the pineapple layer, smoothing the top evenly;
- Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean;
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 5 minutes;
- Run a knife around the edges, invert it onto a serving plate, and let it cool completely.
Pro Tip:
If any pineapple slices stick to the pan, simply use a spatula to lift them and place them back on top of the cake. Drizzle a little of the remaining brown sugar syrup over them to cover.
For a classic touch, garnish the center of each pineapple ring with a maraschino cherry!
Fun Facts About Pineapple:
Pineapple is a incredibly versatile fruit enjoyed fresh, canned, dried, or as juice. Beyond its delicious taste in desserts like this cake, pineapple is a great source of Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and B vitamins. It also contains bromelain, a natural enzyme often used in food science and medicine. Whether in ice cream, smoothies, or savory dishes, this tropical fruit is a global favorite! (Source: Wikipedia).
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