Mini pineapple upside-down cakes are a delightful twist on the classic dessert, offering individual-sized portions packed with caramelized pineapple, buttery cake, and a hint of vanilla. Perfect for parties, holidays, or just a sweet treat at home, these mini cakes are easy to make and absolutely delicious!
ingredients and Step-by-Step Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before diving into the baking process, let’s go over the essential ingredients. This recipe is made with simple pantry staples, but each ingredient plays a key role in ensuring the cakes turn out soft, moist, and flavorful.
For the Topping
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted): Adds richness and helps caramelize the brown sugar.
- ½ cup brown sugar (packed): Creates a deep caramel-like sweetness.
- 6 pineapple rings (fresh or canned): The star of the show, providing a juicy, tropical flavor.
- 6 maraschino cherries: Placed in the center for a pop of color and a touch of sweetness.
For the Cake Batter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: The base of the cake, giving it structure.
- ½ cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the batter.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cakes rise and become light and fluffy.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
- ½ cup whole milk: Provides moisture and richness.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted): Adds a buttery flavor and tender texture.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together and helps with structure.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with warm, sweet notes.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that we have everything ready, let’s go through the process step by step.
Prepping Your Muffin Tin
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 6-cup muffin tin or individual ramekins with non-stick spray or butter. This is crucial to prevent the cakes from sticking.
If using a silicone muffin tray, you might still want to grease it lightly to ensure easy removal.
Creating the Caramelized Topping
This step gives the cakes their signature upside-down effect with a caramelized pineapple topping.
- Divide the melted butter evenly among the muffin cups.
- Sprinkle the brown sugar over the butter in each cup.
- Place a pineapple ring in each muffin cup, ensuring it lays flat.
- Add a maraschino cherry to the center of each pineapple ring.
This layer will caramelize during baking, creating a glossy, sweet topping once the cakes are flipped.
Mixing the Cake Batter
The batter is simple to make and requires just one bowl.
- Whisk together the dry ingredients—flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt—in a medium bowl.
- In a separate bowl, combine the wet ingredients—milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract.
- Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as it can make the cakes dense instead of fluffy.
Assembling and Baking
Now it’s time to bring everything together.
- Spoon the batter evenly over the pineapple and sugar mixture, filling each cup about three-quarters full to allow room for rising.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The tops should be golden brown and slightly firm to the touch.
Cooling and Flipping
The final step is crucial for ensuring the cakes keep their perfect shape.
Flip the cakes onto a plate or tray while still warm. Gently lift the muffin tin to reveal the caramelized pineapple topping.
Let the cakes cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. This allows the caramelized topping to set slightly.
Run a knife around the edges to loosen the cakes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Use a Cake Mix Instead of Homemade Batter?
Yes! Substitute the homemade batter with a yellow or vanilla cake mix for a quicker version. Follow the mix instructions but reduce the liquid slightly for a thicker batter.
Can I Make These in Advance?
Absolutely! Bake them a day ahead, store in an airtight container, and reheat before serving.
Can I Use Fresh Pineapple Instead of Canned?
Yes, but make sure the slices are thin enough so they caramelize properly. If using fresh pineapple, core out the center for a more authentic look.
How Do I Make These Vegan?
- Replace the egg with a flaxseed or chia egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water).
- Use plant-based milk like almond or coconut milk.
- Swap butter for vegan butter or coconut oil.
Conclusion – Why You Should Try These Mini Cakes Today
Mini pineapple upside-down cakes are the perfect combination of classic flavors and modern convenience. Their individual size, quick baking time, and eye-catching presentation make them an excellent choice for any occasion.
Why You Should Try This Recipe Today:
✔ Simple & Quick – No complicated steps or fancy equipment required.
✔ Perfect for Any Occasion – A beautiful, crowd-pleasing dessert.
✔ Customizable – Easily adapt the recipe to suit different tastes.
Try this recipe and let us know how it turns out! Happy baking!