Grilled Pineapple Upside Down Cakes

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Author: Catherine
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Grilled Pineapple Upside Down Cakes

Grilled Pineapple Upside Down Cakes are a delightful twist on the classic dessert that will have your taste buds dancing! This recipe combines the sweetness of caramelized pineapple with a moist, buttery cake, making it a must-try for summer cookouts or special gatherings. Follow this step-by-step guide for an easy baking experience that is sure to impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Grilled Pineapple Upside Down Cakes are incredibly versatile and easy to prepare, making them a great option for any occasion. The bright and tropical flavors of fresh pineapple combined with the satisfying texture of the cake create a dessert that’s both refreshing and indulgent. This family-friendly recipe is not only simple enough for novice bakers, but it also provides an opportunity to enjoy some quality time in the kitchen with loved ones.

Ingredients

  • Fresh Pineapple Rings (from 1 medium pineapple)
  • 2 tablespoons Butter (for grilling)
  • 1/4 cup Brown Sugar (for caramelization)
  • 1 ½ cups All-Purpose Flour
  • 1 teaspoon Baking Powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Cinnamon (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon Nutmeg (optional)
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (softened)
  • 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar
  • 2 large Eggs
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
  • 3/4 cup Milk or Buttermilk

Imagine biting into a slice of this cake: the buttery softness of the cake perfectly complements the sweet and slightly tart caramelized pineapple, creating a delightful flavor explosion in every mouthful. Whether served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoyed on its own, this dessert is sure to please.

Step-by-Step Directions

  1. Prepare the Pineapple: Slice fresh pineapple into rings and brush each ring with melted butter. Sprinkle brown sugar generously over the rings to aid in caramelization.

  2. Grill the Pineapple: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Grill the pineapple rings for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and caramelized. Once done, set aside.

  3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using) until well combined.

  4. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes with a hand mixer.

  5. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs to the creamed butter and sugar mixture one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until evenly mixed.

  6. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk or buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.

  7. Prepare Skillet: Grease a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan. Evenly arrange the grilled pineapple rings at the bottom of your skillet.

  8. Pour Cake Batter: Carefully pour the prepared cake batter over the pineapple rings, making sure to smooth the top for even baking.

  9. Bake on Grill: Place the skillet on the grill and cover it. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

  10. Cool and Serve: Once baked, carefully remove the skillet from the grill and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Invert the skillet onto a serving plate to reveal the beautifully caramelized pineapple before serving.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use Fresh Pineapple: For the best flavor and texture, choose a ripe, fresh pineapple. Canned pineapple may not yield the same delicious results.
  • Spice it Up: Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to bring a new dimension to the flavor.
  • Top It Off: Consider drizzling a simple glaze or serving it with whipped cream for an extra treat.
  • Trial and Error: If you’re cooking on a grill for the first time, it may take a couple of tries to get the perfect baking time and temperature.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Grilled Pineapple Upside Down Cakes are best served warm. Pair this scrumptious dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to balance the sweetness. For a more sophisticated presentation, drizzle with caramel sauce or serve alongside a fresh fruit salad.

Nutritional Information

While exact nutritional values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, a standard slice of Grilled Pineapple Upside Down Cake (1/10 of the cake) typically contains:

  • Calories: 320
  • Total Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 48g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 25g
  • Protein: 4g

Storing Tips & Variations

  • Storing: If you have leftovers, store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To ensure the best taste and texture, reheat slices in the oven or microwave before serving.
  • Variations: Want to mix things up? Try adding chopped nuts or coconut flakes to the batter. Alternatively, you can swap out the pineapple for other fruits, such as peaches or plums, for a seasonal twist!

Conclusion For Grilled Pineapple Upside Down Cakes

Grilled Pineapple Upside Down Cakes are not only a fantastic summer dessert but also a showcase of vibrant colors and flavors that everyone will love. We hope you try this exciting recipe in your kitchen and share it with your friends and family. Sweet, tangy, and irresistibly delicious, these cakes are bound to become a favorite in your household!

FAQs

  1. Can I use canned pineapple for this recipe?

    • While fresh pineapple yields the best flavor, you can use canned pineapple. Just make sure to drain them thoroughly.
  2. How do I know when the cake is done baking?

    • Use a toothpick or cake tester. If it comes out clean, the cake is done!
  3. Can I make this recipe in advance?

    • Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
  4. What’s the best way to slice the pineapple?

    • Cut off the top and bottom of the pineapple, stand it upright, and carefully slice off the skin. Then, slice into rings!
  5. Can I freeze this cake?

    • Yes, you can freeze the Grilled Pineapple Upside Down Cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to three months.
Print

Grilled Pineapple Upside Down Cakes

A delightful twist on the classic dessert featuring caramelized pineapple and moist, buttery cake, perfect for summer cookouts.

  • Author: catherine
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 10 servings 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale
  • Fresh Pineapple Rings (from 1 medium pineapple)
  • 2 tablespoons Butter (for grilling)
  • 1/4 cup Brown Sugar (for caramelization)
  • 1 ½ cups All-Purpose Flour
  • 1 teaspoon Baking Powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Cinnamon (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon Nutmeg (optional)
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (softened)
  • 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar
  • 2 large Eggs
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
  • 3/4 cup Milk or Buttermilk

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pineapple: Slice fresh pineapple into rings and brush each ring with melted butter. Sprinkle brown sugar generously over the rings to aid in caramelization.
  2. Grill the Pineapple: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Grill the pineapple rings for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and caramelized. Once done, set aside.
  3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using) until well combined.
  4. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes with a hand mixer.
  5. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs to the creamed butter and sugar mixture one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until evenly mixed.
  6. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk or buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  7. Prepare Skillet: Grease a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan. Evenly arrange the grilled pineapple rings at the bottom of your skillet.
  8. Pour Cake Batter: Carefully pour the prepared cake batter over the pineapple rings, making sure to smooth the top for even baking.
  9. Bake on Grill: Place the skillet on the grill and cover it. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  10. Cool and Serve: Once baked, carefully remove the skillet from the grill and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Invert the skillet onto a serving plate to reveal the beautifully caramelized pineapple before serving.

Notes

Use fresh pineapple for best flavor. Consider drizzling with caramel sauce or serving alongside whipped cream.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 25g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 48g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

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