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Tropical Paradise Pineapple Upside Down Cake is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of summer with its vibrant flavors and beautiful presentation. This classic dish features caramelized pineapple slices and cherries atop a moist, fluffy cake, offering a sweet treat that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of sweet pineapple, rich buttery cake, and the slight tang of cherries creates a harmonious balance that transports your taste buds to a tropical paradise with every bite. Whether you're hosting a gathering, celebrating a special occasion, or simply looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe is sure to impress.

Sweet Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Indulge in the flavors of summer with Tropical Paradise Pineapple Upside Down Cake! This classic dessert features caramelized pineapple and cherries atop a fluffy cake, creating a stunning treat for any occasion. With a rich buttery base and a perfect balance of sweet and tangy, this cake is both visually appealing and delicious. Discover the fascinating history, detailed recipe, and tips to achieve the perfect bake while embracing the tropical essence that makes this dessert a favorite!
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Ingredients
  

1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)

1 cup packed brown sugar

1 can (20 oz) sliced pineapple in juice, drained (reserve the juice)

About 10 Maraschino cherries

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/4 cup sour cream

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup reserved pineapple juice

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional for extra warmth)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place a 9-inch round cake pan in the oven to melt the butter. Once melted, remove the pan and evenly sprinkle the packed brown sugar over the melted butter, creating a sticky base.

    Arrange Pineapple and Cherries: Neatly arrange the drained pineapple slices over the brown sugar mixture, creating a decorative pattern. Press a maraschino cherry into the center of each pineapple slice. For a pop of color, you can place a few extra cherries in between the pineapple slices.

      Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon (if using). Make sure there are no lumps, and set this mixture aside for later.

        Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and sour cream. Beat them together until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one by one, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract and the reserved pineapple juice until fully incorporated.

          Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined and smooth, being careful not to overmix to keep the cake light.

            Pour Batter: Carefully pour the cake batter over the beautifully arranged pineapple and cherries in the cake pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top, ensuring an even layer.

              Bake the Cake: Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The edges should be golden brown, and the surface should spring back when lightly pressed.

                Cool and Flip: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Gently run a knife around the edges to loosen it. Then, place a large serving plate on top of the cake pan and quickly invert to transfer the cake onto the plate. Carefully lift the pan to reveal the beautiful upside-down design.

                  Serve: Let the cake cool for a few more minutes before slicing. Serve it warm for the best experience, and consider pairing it with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 min | 1 hour | 10 servings