If you crave a dessert that perfectly balances tangy and sweet notes, look no further than the Pioneer Woman Pineapple Upside Down Cake. This classic treat, reminiscent of Ree Drummond’s comforting and approachable style, is sure to become a family favorite. While pineapple upside-down cakes weren’t always made with pineapple, the introduction of canned pineapple transformed this dessert into the iconic bake we know and love today.
Originally, upside-down cakes featured fruits like cherries and apples. However, the accessibility of canned pineapple in the mid-20th century sparked a culinary revolution, leading to the creation of the pioneer woman pineapple upside down cake style dessert that gained immense popularity, particularly in the 1950s and 1960s. Decades later, this delightful cake continues to charm dessert lovers across the United States with its moist texture and caramelized pineapple topping.
Close up of a pineapple upside down cake on a white plate showing the caramelized pineapple and cherries.
This recipe, inspired by the spirit of the Pioneer Woman, simplifies the traditional method. Forget heavy steel pans; this version is perfectly baked in a classic 9×9 inch pan, making it accessible for every home baker. Get ready to experience the joy of a homemade pioneer woman pineapple upside down cake with the easy-to-follow recipe below!
Pioneer Woman Inspired Pineapple Upside Down Cake Recipe
This recipe captures the essence of pioneer woman pineapple upside down cake, focusing on simplicity and deliciousness.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup butter
- 1 (20 oz.) can crushed pineapple, well drained, juice set aside
- 2 large eggs
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (sifted for a lighter cake)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×9 inch square baking pan with baking spray to prevent sticking.
- Caramel Base: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar and cook until just combined. Pour this mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- Pineapple Layer: Spread the well-drained crushed pineapple evenly over the brown sugar mixture in the pan.
- Whip the Eggs: In a separate mixing bowl, beat eggs until they become pale yellow and slightly thickened (about 5 minutes). This step is crucial for a light and airy cake, characteristic of a good pioneer woman pineapple upside down cake.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: Gradually beat in granulated sugar, reserved pineapple juice (6 tablespoons), and vanilla extract into the beaten eggs.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: In a separate small bowl, whisk together sifted all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Create the Batter: Gently add the dry ingredients to the wet batter, mixing until just fully incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, which can result in a tough cake.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the cake batter evenly over the pineapple layer in the baking pan.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake for approximately 45 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Invert Immediately: Once baked, immediately invert the cake onto a serving plate. Leave the pan in place for a few minutes to allow the caramelized brown sugar and pineapple mixture to drizzle down over the cake.
- Serve Warm: Serve your pioneer woman pineapple upside down cake warm. For an extra touch of indulgence, top with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Tips for a Delicious Pioneer Woman Pineapple Upside Down Cake
- Drain the Pineapple Well: This is key to preventing a soggy bottom (which becomes the top!). Ensure the crushed pineapple is thoroughly drained before adding it to the pan.
- Don’t Overbake: Overbaking can dry out the cake. Check for doneness with a wooden skewer around the 40-minute mark.
- Patience When Inverting: Allow the cake to sit for a few minutes after inverting before removing the pan completely. This ensures all the delicious caramel sauce coats the cake.
- Serving Suggestions: While delicious on its own, this pioneer woman pineapple upside down cake is enhanced with a dollop of fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It’s also wonderful with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for added warmth, especially during the holiday season.
Enjoy this timeless pioneer woman pineapple upside down cake recipe, perfect for any occasion, from summer gatherings to cozy holiday desserts!
