Cranberry Pineapple Upside Down Cake

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that’s perfect for both festive gatherings and cozy weeknight dinners, this Cranberry Pineapple Upside Down Cake is just the ticket! This cake brings together the tartness of cranberries and the sweetness of pineapple in an adorable individual-sized serving. It’s a recipe that holds a special place in my heart, not only because it tastes divine but also because it’s so much fun to make. Each little cake is topped with a buttery brown sugar caramel glaze, making every bite a celebration.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply treating yourself after a long day, these cakes will surely impress. So gather your ingredients and let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, even beginner bakers can whip up these cakes with confidence!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: The combination of sweet pineapple and tart cranberry is sure to delight both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the cranberry sauce ahead of time, making it easier to throw everything together when you’re ready to bake.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy family dinner, these individual cakes are an elegant touch.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s take a look at the wholesome ingredients that will make this Cranberry Pineapple Upside Down Cake shine. They are easy to find and come together beautifully!

For the Cranberry Sauce

• 6 oz fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1/2 – 1 cup (100 – 200 grams) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Caramel Glaze

• 1/2 cup (4 ounces) butter, at room temperature
• 1 cup (213 grams) dark brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons (39 grams) corn syrup
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon table salt, OR 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt

For the Cake Batter

• 6 sliced rings of canned pineapple
• 4 large eggs, at room temperature
• 3/4 cup (175 grams) granulated sugar, divided
• 1/2 cup (4 ounces) butter
• 1/4 cup (53 grams) dark brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups (180 grams) unbleached all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (28 grams) cornstarch
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 teaspoon table salt, OR 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1/2 cup (113 grams) buttermilk, at room temperature

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize it to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

• Change Up the Fruit: Swap out cranberries for raspberries or blueberries for a different fruity flavor!
• Add Nuts: Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans on top before baking for added crunch.
• Try Different Sweeteners: Use maple syrup instead of corn syrup for a unique flavor twist.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend.

How to Make Cranberry Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Start by adding all but 1/4 cup of cranberries into a heavy-bottomed saucepan along with half a cup of sugar, orange zest, and lemon juice. Cooking over medium-low heat helps soften the cranberries while dissolving the sugar. This process creates a deliciously tart sauce that complements the sweetness of the cake perfectly.

Step 2: Cook Until Bubbly

Stir frequently until all the sugar dissolves and increase the heat to medium-high. Watch as those cranberries pop open—this usually takes about 5-6 minutes! Reducing the heat afterwards allows you to mix in reserved cranberries and adjust sweetness to your liking, ensuring it’s just right for your palate.

Step 3: Cool and Store

Once your cranberry sauce is prepared, let it cool down to room temperature. You can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks—perfect for making ahead!

Step 4: Prepare Your Pans

Get ready by greasing six 4-inch springform pans with vegetable shortening. Cutting circles of parchment paper ensures easy removal later while preventing any caramel from leaking out during baking. When you press them into your pans, they should rise slightly along the sides.

Step 5: Make the Caramel Glaze

In your stand mixer bowl, combine butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat on high speed until light and fluffy—this step is key! The fluffy texture adds airiness that makes your glaze heavenly.

Step 6: Assemble with Love

Now comes the fun part! Distribute your caramel glaze evenly among each pan. Next up—spread that tart cranberry sauce on top followed by gently pressing down pineapple rings into it. This layering not only looks beautiful but also ensures each bite has fruit goodness.

Step 7: Preheat & Prepare Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F while you separate egg whites from yolks. Whipping those egg whites until frothy adds great volume to your cake batter—a little extra lightness goes a long way!

Step 8: Creaming Time!

Cream together butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until fluffy. Add vanilla and incorporate those egg yolks one by one; this builds richness in flavor.

Step 9: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt. Alternate adding this mixture with buttermilk into your batter—it helps develop just enough gluten without overmixing!

Step 10: Fold In Egg Whites

Gently fold in those whipped egg whites into your batter until combined—this step adds airiness!

Step 11: Fill & Bake

Divide batter evenly between pans until nearly full. Place them on a lined baking sheet before sliding them into your preheated oven. Bake for about 30-35 minutes until toothpick inserted comes out clean—your kitchen will smell amazing!

Step 12: Unmold & Serve

Let cakes rest briefly before flipping them onto plates; patience here allows caramel sauce to flow nicely back into cakes! Serve warm for maximum enjoyment; they’re delightful on their own or paired with whipped cream.

Enjoy sharing these sweet delights with friends or savor them solo—you deserve it!

Pro Tips for Making Cranberry Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Creating a delightful Cranberry Pineapple Upside Down Cake can be a breeze with these handy tips!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cranberries and ripe pineapples make a significant difference in flavor. They can elevate your cake from good to great, bringing out the natural sweetness and tartness.
• Don’t Rush the Glaze: Allowing the glaze to cool slightly before adding it to the pans gives it the right consistency. This prevents it from running too much and helps create that perfect caramel layer underneath the cake.
• Measure Accurately: Baking is a science, so measuring your ingredients precisely is crucial. Using a kitchen scale for flour, sugar, and other ingredients will yield consistent and delicious results every time.
• Egg Temperature Matters: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for better incorporation into the batter. Room temperature eggs whip up easier, creating a lighter cake texture.
• Cool Before Serving: While it’s tempting to dig in right away, letting the cakes rest allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and makes them easier to unmold without falling apart.

How to Serve Cranberry Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Serving this stunning cake is all about presentation and complements that enhance its deliciousness!

Garnishes

• Whipped Coconut Cream: A light dollop of whipped coconut cream adds richness without overpowering the fruity flavors of the cake.
• Fresh Mint Leaves: A sprig of mint on top brings a refreshing touch and a pop of color that makes your dessert visually appealing.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with the tartness of the cranberry sauce, creating a delightful contrast.
• Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad with seasonal fruits provides a fresh balance to each slice of cake while enhancing its fruity essence.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and berries can serve as a light side dish that complements the richness of the cake while adding texture.
• Herbed Quinoa Salad: A savory quinoa salad mixed with fresh herbs can create an interesting contrast to your sweet dessert, making it an excellent addition for a well-rounded meal.

With these serving suggestions and tips, your Cranberry Pineapple Upside Down Cake will not only taste fabulous but also look like a masterpiece at any gathering! Enjoy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cranberry Pineapple Upside Down Cake recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make it in advance for gatherings or simply enjoy a sweet treat throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day.
• For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Make sure to place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• Wrap individual cakes tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Label each package with the date to keep track of freshness.

Reheating

• To reheat, remove the cake from the wrapping and place it on a microwave-safe plate.
• Heat on 50% power for 20-30 seconds or until warmed through.
• Enjoy warm for a delightful dessert experience!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making a Cranberry Pineapple Upside Down Cake.

Can I use fresh cranberries in my Cranberry Pineapple Upside Down Cake?

Yes! You can use fresh or frozen cranberries. If using fresh, just ensure they’re washed and sorted properly.

How should I store my Cranberry Pineapple Upside Down Cake?

Store leftover cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a day or refrigerate them for up to three days.

Can I substitute other fruits in this recipe?

Absolutely! While pineapple and cranberry are the stars here, you can experiment with other fruits like peaches or cherries if you prefer.

Is this cake suitable for special occasions?

Definitely! This beautiful cake makes an impressive centerpiece for holidays, birthdays, or any gathering where you want to wow your guests.

How long does it take to make this cake?

The total time required is about 1 hour and 35 minutes, including both prep and cooking times. It’s worth every minute!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this delightful Cranberry Pineapple Upside Down Cake! It’s not just a treat; it’s a celebration of flavors that will brighten any occasion. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe, share it with loved ones, and create sweet memories together. Happy baking!