Ingredients
For the Caramel:
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter
For the Fruit Topping:
- 1 can (about 20 oz or 567 g) pineapple rings, drained (or fresh pineapple rings)
- 10-12 maraschino cherries (optional)
For the Cake Batter:
- 1 1/2 cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Caramel:
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the sugar until it turns a golden amber color. Avoid stirring; instead, gently swirl the pan.
- Once the caramel is ready, remove it from heat and quickly whisk in the butter until smooth.
- Pour the caramel into the bottom of a 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pan, spreading it evenly.
- Arrange the Fruit:
- Place the pineapple rings on top of the caramel, arranging them in a pattern you like. If using, place a maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple ring.
- Prepare the Cake Batter:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then add the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Pour the cake batter evenly over the arranged fruit in the pan, smoothing the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 35-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Cool and Unmold:
- Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Run a knife around the edges to loosen the cake.
- Place a serving plate over the pan and carefully flip the cake onto the plate. Gently remove the pan to reveal the caramelized fruit on top.
Serve your upside-down fruit cake warm or at room temperature. It’s delightful on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Enjoy! If you have any other questions or need further modifications, feel free to ask.