Name: Pineapple Upside Down Cake in a Cast Iron Skillet culinarye.com
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter; 1 cup packed light brown sugar; 7-8 pineapple slices (canned or fresh); Maraschino cherries (optional, for garnish); 1½ cups all-purpose flour; 1½ teaspoons baking powder; ¼ teaspoon salt; ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ cup whole milk

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Introduction

Have you ever wondered why your Pineapple Upside Down Cake doesn’t have that perfect caramelized top or moist texture? The secret might lie in the cookware you use. Baking this classic dessert in a cast iron skillet not only enhances its flavor but also ensures even cooking and a beautifully caramelized topping. The cast iron skillet retains heat efficiently, allowing the brown sugar and butter to meld seamlessly with the pineapple, creating a luscious, golden crust.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through making a delectable Pineapple Upside Down Cake in a cast iron skillet, ensuring every slice is as delightful as the last.

Ingredients List

For the Topping:

½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
1 cup packed light brown sugar
7-8 pineapple slices (canned or fresh)
Maraschino cherries (optional, for garnish)Eat This Much+15Amanda’s Cookin’+15CookingPro+15 Joyous Apron+7MyFoodDiary+7Nutritionix+7 BettyCrocker.com Joyous Apron+2Mashed+2Amanda’s Cookin’+2

For the Cake Batter:

1½ cups all-purpose flour
1½ teaspoons baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup whole milk

Substitutions:

For a dairy-free version, use plant-based butter and milk alternatives like almond or oat milk.
If fresh pineapple isn’t available, canned pineapple rings work perfectly.CookingPro

Timing

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hourAllrecipes+12Koukie recipes+12CalorieKing+12 My Food Data Tools+26CookingPro+26BettyCrocker.com+26 Mashed+20Amanda’s Cookin’+20Eat This Much+20

This recipe takes about 20% less time compared to traditional oven-baked versions, thanks to the efficient heat distribution of the cast iron skillet.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Skillet

Place your cast iron skillet over medium heat. Melt the ½ cup butter, then sprinkle the 1 cup brown sugar evenly over the melted butter. Allow the mixture to cook for about 2 minutes until it starts to bubble. Remove from heat.King Arthur Baking

Step 2: Arrange the Pineapple

Place the pineapple slices over the brown sugar mixture in a circular pattern. If using, place maraschino cherries in the center of each pineapple ring.Southern Shelle Mashed+2Joyous Apron+2Amanda’s Cookin’+2

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 4: Prepare the Cake Batter

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

Step 5: Combine and Bake

Pour the batter over the arranged pineapple slices in the skillet, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.Joyous Apron+3CookingPro+3Southern Living+3

Step 6: Cool and Invert

Allow the cake to cool in the skillet for about 10 minutes. Run a knife around the edges to loosen. Place a serving plate over the skillet and carefully invert the cake onto the plate. Let it sit for a few minutes before lifting the skillet.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (1 slice, assuming 8 servings):Eat This Much

Calories: Approximately 367 kcal
Total Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 3.4g
Cholesterol: 25mg
Sodium: 367mg
Total Carbohydrates: 58g
Dietary Fiber: 0.9g
Sugars: 38g
Protein: 4gAmanda’s Cookin’+25Eat This Much+25The Guardian+25

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Whole Wheat Flour: Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
Natural Sweeteners: Use coconut sugar or honey instead of granulated sugar for a lower glycemic index.
Reduced Butter: Substitute half the butter with unsweetened applesauce to reduce fat content.
Low-Fat Milk: Use skim or plant-based milk alternatives to lower calorie intake.

Serving Suggestions

Warm with Ice Cream: Serve a slice warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic treat.
Whipped Cream: Top with freshly whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Brunch Delight: Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful brunch addition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not Greasing the Skillet Properly: Ensure the skillet is well-greased to prevent sticking.
Overmixing the Batter: Mix just until ingredients are combined to avoid a dense cake.
Flipping Too Soon: Allow the cake to cool for 10 minutes before inverting to maintain its structure.
Uneven Pineapple Arrangement: Arrange pineapple slices evenly to ensure consistent caramelization.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Room Temperature: Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Refrigeration: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Conclusion

Creating a Pineapple Upside Down Cake in a cast iron skillet is a delightful twist on a classic dessert. The skillet ensures even cooking and a beautifully caramelized topping, making each bite a perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors. Give this recipe a try and experience the difference! We’d love to hear your feedback—leave a comment below or subscribe for more delicious updates.

FAQs

Q: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
A: Absolutely! Fresh pineapple can be used; just ensure it’s sliced evenly for consistent cooking.

Q: What size cast iron skillet is best?
A: A 10-inch cast iron skillet works well for this recipe, providing ample space for the pineapple arrangement and batter.

Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the cake a day in advance. Store it covered at room temperature or refrigerate and reheat before serving.Koukie recipes+1CookingPro+1

Q: How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the skillet?
A: Ensure the skillet is well-greased with butter, and allow the cake to cool for about 10 minutes before inverting.

Q: Can I use a different fruit instead of pineapple?
A: Certainly! While pineapple is traditional, you can experiment with fruits like peaches or apples for a unique twist.

Enjoy baking and savoring this delightful Pineapple Upside Down Cake in your cast iron skillet!

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