Grilled Pineapple Upside Down Cakes
Grilled Pineapple Upside Down Cakes combine smoky, caramelized pineapple with a tender buttery cake for a unique, irresistible dessert. Grilled pineapple slices create a golden sticky topping that seeps into the moist cake, making it a perfect treat for any occasion.
- Author: Elena
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Grilling, Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (if gluten-free baking mix is used)
Topping
- Fresh pineapple slices (ripe, cut into rings or thick rounds)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tbsp butter, melted (plus extra for brushing and greasing)
Cake Batter
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free baking mix for gluten-free version)
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk or buttermilk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- Prepare the Pineapple Topping: Slice fresh pineapple into rings or thick rounds and brush each side lightly with melted butter mixed with brown sugar. Preheat your grill to medium heat, then place the pineapple slices on the grate. Grill each side for 3 to 4 minutes or until grill marks form and the sugars start to bubble, creating a caramelized glaze.
- Assemble the Pan: Arrange the grilled pineapple slices carefully at the bottom of a greased cake pan, spacing evenly. Pour any remaining buttery brown sugar drizzle over the pineapple to enhance the caramel flavor concentrated in the topping.
- Mix the Cake Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, sugar, and optional cinnamon. In a separate bowl, combine eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter. Gradually fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients until just blended, avoiding overmixing to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the prepared batter gently over the pineapple layer, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Flip and Serve: Let the cake cool for about 10 minutes. Run a knife around the edges, then carefully invert the cake onto a serving plate so the caramelized pineapple is revealed on top, ready to impress your guests.
Notes
- Choose ripe pineapples for better caramelization and juiciness.
- Lightly oil the grill grates before grilling to prevent sticking.
- Allow the cake to cool before flipping to avoid cracks and ensure a clean presentation.
- Use room temperature ingredients for even mixing and a tender crumb.
- Experiment with sugars such as dark brown or coconut sugar for varied caramel notes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of cake)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: grilled pineapple, upside down cake, caramelized pineapple dessert, tropical dessert, summer cake