A soft and buttery cake with a caramelized pineapple topping, this pineapple upside-down cake is a show-stopping dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a retro classic that’s perfect for any occasion!
Combine the melted butter and brown sugar in a bowl,. Spread in the bottom of a 9-inch round cake pan.**
Arrange the pineapple rings over the sugar-butter mixture, placing cherries in the center of each ring. Set aside.
To make the cake:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Combine the milk and pineapple juice and set aside.
In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes). Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
Alternate adding the flour mixture and the milk/pineapple juice mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Gently pour the batter over the pineapple topping, spreading it evenly.
Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes.
Carefully invert onto a serving plate while still warm.
Let the cake cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
*Gently pat dry to prevent a soggy cake.
**For extra protection against sticking, you can grease the sides of the pan and/or line the bottom of the pan with a parchment paper round.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature up to 2 days.