Go Back
Best Portuguese Pineapple Upside Down

Portuguese Pineapple Upside-Down Cake

Experience the warmth of Portuguese tradition with this luscious Pineapple Upside-Down Cake, where juicy pineapples and vibrant cherries come together to crown a perfectly moist cake. A bite to remember!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine Azorean, Portuguese
Servings 8 slices
Calories 280 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the topping:

  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter (55 grams)
  • 2/3 cup light brown sugar (135 grams)
  • 7-8 pineapple rings canned or fresh
  • 6-8 maraschino cherries

For the cake:

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (200 grams)
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (1.5 grams)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder (5 grams)
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda (5 grams)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (2.5 grams)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar (200 grams)
  • 1/2 cup 1 stick unsalted butter, room temperature (113 grams)
  • 3 large eggs (150 grams) room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5 grams)
  • 2/3 cup whole milk (160 grams)
  • Zest of 1 lemon

Instructions
 

  • Start by setting your oven to 350°F (177°C).
  • Melt the unsalted butter in a 9-inch round cake pan and spread evenly. Sprinkle the light brown sugar over the melted butter. Arrange the pineapple rings and place maraschino cherries inside each pineapple ring and in the gaps.
  • In a mixing bowl, sift together the flour, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, cream the butter and granulated sugar. Add eggs one by one, then the vanilla extract and lemon zest. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with the milk, until a smooth batter forms.
  • Pour the batter over the pineapple and cherry setup in the cake pan, ensuring an even spread.
  • Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center.
  • After baking, let it cool for about 10-15 minutes, then invert onto a plate.
  • Slice, serve, and relish the traditional flavors of this Portuguese-inspired treat!

Notes

Here are some recipe notes to make the best Portuguese Pineapple Upside Down Cake:
  1. Fruit Placement: Arrange your pineapple slices and cherries in a pattern or design of your choice. If you want a classic look, place one cherry in the center of each pineapple ring.
  2. Pan Type: This recipe works best with a deep, round cake pan or pie dish to accommodate the caramelized topping and ensure an even bake for the cake.
  3. Butter Temperature: Always ensure your butter is at room temperature. This allows for a smoother, more unified batter.
  4. Pineapple Juice: Don't discard the juice from the canned pineapple. It can be reserved for other uses or even as a refreshing drink.
  5. Cake Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container. This pineapple cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
  6. Flavor Variations: For a hint of spice, consider adding a dash of nutmeg to the batter.
  7. Serving Suggestion: While delicious on its own, this cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
  8. Cooling is Key: After baking, let the cake rest for at least 20 minutes before inverting to ensure the topping settles properly.
  9. Customize: Feel free to add nuts like walnuts or pecans to the caramel topping for an added crunch.
Keyword Authentic Portuguese Dessert, Azorean Upside Down Pineapple Cake, Bolo da Ananás, Cherry-Pineapple Cake, Moist Pineapple Cake, Pineapple Upside Down Dessert, Portuguese Pineapple Cake, Portuguese Pineapple Upside Down Cake, Traditional Portuguese Cake