Step 1: Prepare the Topping
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 10-cup Bundt pan thoroughly with butter or non-stick spray.
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the 1/2 cup of butter. Add the brown sugar and stir until combined and slightly bubbly, about 2-3 minutes.
- Pour the brown sugar mixture into the bottom of the prepared Bundt pan.
- Arrange the drained pineapple slices over the brown sugar mixture. Place a cherry in the center of each pineapple ring, and scatter any extra cherries around.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with the sour cream and reserved pineapple juice. Begin and end with the flour mixture, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
- Carefully spoon the batter over the pineapple and cherry topping in the Bundt pan, smoothing it out with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes.
Step 4: Flip the Cake
- After cooling, carefully invert the Bundt pan onto a serving platter. Gently tap the pan to release the cake. The pineapple topping should be on top, glistening with the caramelized sugar.
- Allow the cake to cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the Pineapple Upside-Down Bundt Cake warm or at room temperature. It’s delicious on its own, but you can also top it with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
- Pair it with coffee or tea for a delightful dessert experience.
Tips for Success
- Greasing the Bundt Pan: Make sure to grease the pan thoroughly to prevent the cake from sticking. You can use a mixture of butter and flour for extra insurance.
- Fresh Pineapple: For a fresher taste, you can use fresh pineapple slices instead of canned. Just ensure they are properly drained.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Conclusion
This Pineapple Upside-Down Bundt Cake is a delightful combination of tropical flavors and moist cake that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Its stunning presentation and delicious taste make it a perfect dessert for any occasion. Enjoy a slice of this beautiful cake and let the flavors transport you to a sunny paradise!