Cranberry Pineapple Upside Down Cake

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious, you’ve come to the right place! This Cranberry Pineapple Upside Down Cake is the perfect blend of sweet and tart, with a buttery caramel glaze that will make your taste buds dance. It’s a nostalgic recipe that reminds me of family gatherings and festive celebrations. Whether you’re planning a cozy weeknight dinner or a grand holiday feast, these individual-sized cakes are sure to impress everyone at the table.

What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to bring together. The bright flavors of cranberries and pineapple create a stunning visual and flavor combination that’s perfect for any occasion. Plus, it’s made with simple ingredients that you likely have on hand, making it a go-to dessert when you need something special without all the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, even novice bakers can whip this up with confidence!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the fruity flavors in these tender cakes.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or just a weekday treat, these cakes fit right in.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the cranberry sauce ahead of time for an even quicker bake when you’re ready to enjoy!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create your delicious Cranberry Pineapple Upside Down Cake.

For the Cranberry Sauce

• 6 oz fresh or frozen cranberries (see note)
• 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 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
• 6 sliced rings of canned pineapple

For the Cake Batter

• 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to make it your own.

• Try Different Fruits: Use peaches or cherries instead of pineapple for a refreshing twist.
• Add Spices: Incorporate cinnamon or nutmeg into your batter for added warmth and depth.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend for a gluten-free version.
• Switch Up the Sweetener: Try using maple syrup instead of granulated sugar in the glaze for a unique flavor profile.

How to Make Cranberry Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Start by cooking down the cranberries with some sugar, orange zest, and lemon juice. This step is crucial because it brings out the natural sweetness of the cranberries while balancing their tartness. As they cook, you’ll see them soften and burst—this creates that delicious sauce we want!

Step 2: Grease Your Pans

Prepare six small springform pans by greasing them well and lining them with parchment paper. This ensures our cakes release easily after baking. The parchment also helps contain all that wonderful caramel glaze we’re about to make!

Step 3: Make the Glaze

In your mixer bowl, combine all the glaze ingredients except for the pineapple slices. Beat until light and fluffy—this step adds airiness to our glaze which gives it that perfect texture once baked.

Step 4: Layer It Up

Divide the glaze into your prepared pans followed by an even layer of cranberry sauce topped with pineapple rings. Press gently so everything melds together nicely during baking. This layering technique not only looks beautiful but also ensures each bite is packed with flavor.

Step 5: Prepare Your Cake Batter

Separate egg whites from yolks and beat until frothy. Then cream together your remaining butter and sugars until light. This step is essential as it incorporates air into our batter for fluffiness!

Step 6: Combine Everything

Alternately mix in dry ingredients and buttermilk into your batter before folding in those lovely beaten egg whites. Gently combining these elements helps keep our cake light without losing volume—a key point for baking success!

Step 7: Bake

Fill your prepared pans with batter nearly to the top and bake until golden brown. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly! Allowing them to rest before flipping ensures you maintain that gorgeous shape.

Step 8: Serve Warm

Once flipped onto plates or platters, serve these warm little delights immediately! They can be stored easily too; just know they’re best enjoyed fresh out of the oven or gently warmed later on.

With these steps laid out clearly, I hope you feel inspired to give this delightful Cranberry Pineapple Upside Down Cake a try! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Cranberry Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Baking is an art, and with these simple tips, you can elevate your Cranberry Pineapple Upside Down Cake to new heights!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensuring that your eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature helps the batter mix more evenly, leading to a fluffier cake.
• Don’t rush the caramel glaze: Taking your time while preparing the glaze allows the butter and sugars to meld beautifully, creating that deep, rich flavor that complements the tart cranberries.
• Fold gently when mixing: When incorporating the beaten egg whites into the batter, use a gentle folding motion. This maintains the airy texture of the cake, which is essential for that light and tender crumb.
• Check for doneness carefully: Since oven temperatures can vary, start checking your cakes a few minutes before the suggested baking time. A toothpick should come out clean from the center without any wet batter adhering to it.
• Let them cool before serving: Allowing your cakes to rest after baking not only ensures they hold their shape but also gives the flavors time to meld together nicely.

How to Serve Cranberry Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Presenting your delightful mini cakes can be just as fun as making them! Here are some creative ways to serve this festive dessert that will impress your guests.

Garnishes

• Fresh mint leaves: A sprig of mint adds a refreshing pop of color and flavor.
• Powdered sugar dusting: Lightly sprinkling powdered sugar over the top gives an elegant finish and sweetness without overpowering the fruit flavors.
• Coconut whipped cream: A dollop of coconut whipped cream adds a creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the tartness of cranberries.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla yogurt: The creaminess of vanilla yogurt complements the tartness of the cake while adding a smooth mouthfeel.
• Mixed berry salad: A fresh mix of seasonal berries provides a bright, juicy contrast that enhances your cake’s flavors.
• Lemon sorbet: The zesty brightness of lemon sorbet cleanses the palate and offers a refreshing balance to the richness of the cake.
• Spiced apple compote: Warm spiced apples pair wonderfully with cranberries, enhancing those autumnal flavors in every bite.

By following these suggestions, your Cranberry Pineapple Upside Down Cakes will not only taste incredible but look stunning on any holiday table. Enjoy creating delicious memories!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cranberry Pineapple Upside Down Cake is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to create delightful individual servings that can be enjoyed throughout the week! Here’s how to store and enjoy them later.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any uneaten cakes at room temperature for up to 1 day.
• For longer storage, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze the cakes, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place the wrapped cakes in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, microwave on 50% power for 20-30 seconds until warmed through.
• For best results, let them come to room temperature before reheating if they’ve been frozen.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this delicious dessert!

Can I make Cranberry Pineapple Upside Down Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This recipe is great for preparing in advance. You can bake the cakes and store them as described above, making it convenient for gatherings or busy weeks.

What can I substitute for buttermilk in the Cranberry Pineapple Upside Down Cake?

If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make your own by mixing 1/2 cup of milk with 1/2 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using!

How do I ensure my Cranberry Pineapple Upside Down Cake turns out moist?

To keep your cake moist, make sure not to overbake it. Check for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean when inserted into the center. Additionally, using room temperature ingredients helps create a smoother batter.

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of frozen ones in the Cranberry Pineapple Upside Down Cake?

Yes! Fresh cranberries work wonderfully in this recipe. Just be sure they’re ripe and tart for the best flavor balance.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this delightful Cranberry Pineapple Upside Down Cake! With its sweet-tart flavors and beautiful presentation, it’s sure to become a favorite for holidays and special occasions alike. Enjoy every moment of baking and savoring these lovely little cakes. I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out!