This Coconut Cream Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is a delightful meld of tropical flavors and a beloved classic dessert. The moist, fluffy cake is infused with rich coconut cream, which pairs perfectly with the sweet, caramelized pineapples and cherries on top. Each slice offers a burst of nostalgia and sunshine, making it an ideal treat for summer gatherings or any festive occasion.
The key to a successful upside-down cake lies in the preparation of the topping. By caramelizing the pineapple and brown sugar together, you create a beautiful, golden glaze that seeps into the cake, ensuring each bite is sweet and flavorful. This cake is not only a feast for the taste buds but also for the eyes!
Ingredients
INGREDIENTS
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 can (20 oz) sliced pineapple, drained
- Maraschino cherries, for garnish
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup coconut cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a 9-inch round cake pan, melt the butter over low heat and stir in the brown sugar until dissolved.
- Arrange the drained pineapple slices in the pan, placing a cherry in the center of each slice. Set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk to blend and set aside.
- In another bowl, beat together granulated sugar, coconut cream, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with the milk, until just combined. Do not overmix!
- Pour the batter over the pineapple slices in the pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a serving plate. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
Note: For an extra coconut flavor, consider adding shredded coconut to the batter or as a garnish on top of the cake.
For the best results, use fresh pineapple if possible, as it adds a vibrant flavor that canned pineapple can’t match. If you’re short on time, canned pineapple works well too—just make sure to drain it thoroughly.
Don’t skip the coconut cream; it adds depth and a rich, tropical flavor. If you can’t find coconut cream, you can use full-fat coconut milk, but the texture may vary slightly.
To store leftovers, keep the cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds for a cozy treat!