Imagine a dessert that's not just a treat, but an experience – a perfect blend of nostalgia and modern culinary creativity! These Pineapple Upside Down Cake Jars are about to revolutionize your dessert game, transforming the classic comfort cake into a portable, Instagram-worthy delicacy that will have everyone asking for your secret recipe. With a golden caramelized pineapple topping and a moist, tender cake base, these individual jars are the ultimate crowd-pleaser that combines convenience, stunning presentation, and irresistible flavor in every single bite.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 jars
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 can (20 oz) pineapple slices
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare 6 wide-mouth mason jars by thoroughly cleaning and drying them.
- In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add brown sugar and stir continuously until it creates a smooth caramel-like sauce, about 3-4 minutes.
- Drain the canned pineapple slices, patting them dry with paper towels. Cut each slice to fit the bottom of the mason jars.
- Pour approximately 2 tablespoons of the butter-sugar mixture into the bottom of each jar. Arrange the pineapple slices neatly on top of the caramel sauce.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour and baking powder. Set aside.
- In another bowl, cream together granulated sugar, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter.
- Carefully pour the cake batter over the pineapple in each jar, filling each about 2/3 full to allow room for rising.
- Place the jars on a large baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes. Run a knife around the edges to loosen the cake.
- To serve, carefully invert each jar onto a serving plate, allowing the caramelized pineapple to sit on top of the cake. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients to ensure a smoother, more evenly mixed batter.
- Pat the pineapple slices completely dry to prevent excess moisture in the cake.
- Don't overmix the batter – this can lead to a tough, dense cake.
- Fill jars only 2/3 full to allow space for the cake to rise.
- Use wide-mouth mason jars for easiest baking and serving.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or a splash of rum to the caramel sauce.
- Let the cakes cool slightly before inverting to help them release cleanly from the jars.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent touch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 62g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 85mg
