Cathy's Quick Pineapple Upside Down Cake 🍍🍰

This delightful Pineapple Upside Down Cake is a breeze to whip up and brings a touch of tropical sweetness to any gathering. Whether it's a treat for an afternoon tea or a lively family dessert, this recipe combines the caramelized flavor of brown sugar with the juicy goodness of pineapple. It’s sure to impress your guests! Why not serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream? It’s a match made in dessert heaven! 🍨✨

Ingredients

For the topping

• 1 stick of margarine (melted)
• 1 cup dark brown sugar
• 1 large can of crushed pineapple (drained)

For the cake batter

• 2 cups Bisquick mix
• 3 tablespoons shortening
• 3/4 cup milk
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Prep the Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a 13x9 inch baking pan, melt the stick of margarine in the oven. Once melted, sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the butter.

   🔥 Melting the butter first allows the sugar to caramelize beautifully as the cake bakes, creating that iconic sticky bottom!

2. Add the Pineapple: Spread the drained crushed pineapple over the brown sugar and butter mixture in the pan.

3. Mix the Batter: In a separate bowl, mix the Bisquick, shortening, milk, sugar, eggs, and vanilla until well combined.

   🥄 This cake comes together quickly, so make sure not to overmix! A few lumps are perfectly fine.

4. Pour and Bake: Carefully pour the batter over the pineapple layer in the pan. Bake for approximately 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

5. Serve: Allow the cake to cool for a few minutes before inverting onto a serving platter.

   🚨 Caution: When inverting, make sure to have a plate ready as the caramelized pineapple can be hot!

Tips & Tricks

• Make it Tropical: Add maraschino cherries on top of the pineapple for extra color and flavor! 🍒
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute Bisquick with a gluten-free baking mix to cater to gluten-sensitive friends.
• Storing Your Cake: This cake can be stored covered at room temperature for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving to enhance the melty topping!

Variations

• Coconut Twist: For a tropical flair, add shredded coconut to the cake batter or sprinkle some on top after baking.
• Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a hint of warmth and spice.
• Other Fruits: Experiment with other fruits like peaches or cherries in place of pineapple for a fun twist!

Enjoy this easy and scrumptious dessert that brings sunshine to your table, any time of the year! ☀️🍰