Get ready to transform your dessert game with the most Instagram-worthy treat that's about to become your new obsession! This Mason Jar Pineapple Upside Down Cake isn't just a dessert—it's a culinary experience that combines nostalgic American comfort food with modern, Pinterest-worthy presentation. Imagine individual personal-sized cakes with a golden caramelized pineapple top that literally makes your taste buds do a happy dance. Whether you're hosting a dinner party, looking for a unique dessert, or just want to impress your family, this recipe is your secret weapon to becoming a kitchen superstar!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can sliced pineapple
- 6 maraschino cherries
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare 6 clean mason jars by thoroughly washing and drying them.
- In a small saucepan, melt butter and brown sugar together over medium heat. Stir constantly until the mixture becomes smooth and bubbly, about 2-3 minutes.
- Spoon a thin layer of the caramel mixture into the bottom of each mason jar, ensuring even distribution.
- Place one pineapple slice at the bottom of each jar, and add a maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple slice.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and baking powder. Whisk together until well mixed.
- In a separate bowl, beat eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing until a smooth cake batter forms. Be careful not to overmix.
- Carefully pour the cake batter over the pineapple and cherry layer in each mason jar, filling each jar about 2/3 full.
- Place the mason jars on a baking sheet to catch any potential overflow and ensure even baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Remove from oven and let the jars cool for 10 minutes. This allows the caramel to set slightly.
- Carefully run a knife around the edges of each jar to loosen the cake.
- Invert each mason jar onto a serving plate, gently tapping the bottom to release the cake. The pineapple and caramel layer should now be on top.
- Serve warm or at room temperature. Can be garnished with a scoop of vanilla ice cream if desired.
Tips
- Mason Jar Selection: Use wide-mouth, straight-sided mason jars for the best presentation and easiest cake removal.
- Caramel Perfection: Watch your butter and brown sugar mixture closely to prevent burning. It should be smooth and bubbly, not dark.
- Batter Consistency: Mix cake batter just until ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to tough, dense cakes.
- Even Baking: Place mason jars on a baking sheet to catch any potential overflow and ensure uniform heat distribution.
- Cooling is Key: Let cakes rest for 10 minutes before inverting to allow caramel to set slightly and prevent sticking.
- Serve with Flair: A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream can elevate these individual cakes from great to extraordinary!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 65mg
