Skillet Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Skillet Pineapple Upside Down Cake is a classic dessert that combines a rich, buttery cake with the sweet, caramelized goodness of pineapple and cherries, all baked together in a cast-iron skillet. This retro favorite is incredibly moist and full of flavor, with a golden, sticky topping of pineapple rings and maraschino cherries that adds a beautiful presentation to the dish. Baking it in a skillet creates a lovely, crispy edge, making each bite a perfect combination of tender cake and caramelized fruit. This dessert is ideal for a special occasion or a nostalgic family treat.

Ingredients

For the topping:

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 6-8 pineapple rings (canned or fresh)
• Maraschino cherries (optional)

For the cake:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup pineapple juice (from the can or fresh)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Make the topping: In a 10-inch cast-iron skillet, melt the 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar until it dissolves, then remove from heat. Arrange the pineapple rings in the skillet, and place a maraschino cherry in the center of each ring, if desired.
3. 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 together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk and pineapple juice, mixing until just combined.
5. Assemble the cake: Pour the cake batter over the pineapple rings in the skillet, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
6. Bake the cake: Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the skillet for 5-10 minutes.
7. Invert and serve: Carefully run a knife around the edges of the skillet, then invert the cake onto a serving plate. Let the caramelized topping set for a few minutes before serving.

This Skillet Pineapple Upside Down Cake is a nostalgic, beautifully caramelized dessert that’s both delicious and impressive, perfect for any gathering or family dessert night!