Description
This Cranberry Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is a delightful twist on the classic dessert, combining the tartness of fresh cranberries with sweet, caramelized pineapple slices atop a moist, tender cake. Perfect for holiday gatherings or any special occasion, this cake bakes to golden perfection with a buttery brown sugar glaze and a soft, creamy texture that melts in your mouth.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Topping
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 8 slices canned pineapple, drained
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
For the Cake Batter
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan to prepare it for the topping and batter.
- Create the Topping Layer: Pour the melted butter into the bottom of the pan, then evenly sprinkle the packed brown sugar over it to form the caramel base.
- Arrange Pineapple and Cranberries: Place the drained pineapple slices in a single layer atop the brown sugar, then scatter the fresh or frozen cranberries in the spaces between the pineapple slices to create a vibrant fruit topping.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside for later.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, ensuring a smooth texture for the cake.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, beating thoroughly after each addition, then mix in the vanilla extract to enhance the cake’s flavor.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Stir in the sour cream, then alternately add the dry ingredients and milk to the bowl, mixing gently until the batter is smooth and well combined.
- Pour Batter Over Fruit: Carefully spread the cake batter evenly over the arranged pineapple slices and cranberries in the cake pan, smoothing the top to ensure even baking.
- Bake the Cake: Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean, indicating it is fully cooked.
- Cool and Invert: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then run a knife around the edges and invert the cake onto a serving plate to reveal the beautiful fruit topping.
- Serve: Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use fresh cranberries if possible; frozen works well but do not thaw before adding to the topping.
- Greasing the cake pan well helps the cake invert easily without sticking.
- For a richer flavor, substitute milk with buttermilk in the batter.
- Leftover cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
- Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence.
