In the culinary world, pineapple upside-down cake stands out as a symbol of the perfect combination between the sweetness of pineapple and the smooth flavor of cake. This is an ideal dessert for any party, from family gatherings to birthday parties. With the help of Duncan Hines cake mix, making this cake is not only easy but also ensures excellent flavor quality. Let’s explore the nutritional value, detailed ingredients, meticulous methods and tips to create the most perfect pineapple upside-down cake.
Nutritional value:
Pineapple upside down cake is not only attractive in flavor but also rich in nutrition. One serving of cake (about 1 piece) contains approximately:
- Calories: 250-300
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Sugar: 20g
- Protein: 2g
- Pineapple is a fruit rich in vitamin C, manganese, and fiber. Vitamin C helps strengthen the immune system, while manganese supports metabolism and protects bones. Fiber from pineapple helps improve digestion and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. When combined with Duncan Hines cake mix, the cake will add protein and fat from flour and eggs, providing energy and essential nutrients for the body.
Ingredient:
To make pineapple upside down cake from Duncan Hines cake mix, you need to prepare the following ingredients:
- 1 box of Duncan Hines yellow cake mix: This is the main ingredient that gives the cake a soft texture and delicious flavor.
- 3 eggs: Eggs help bind the ingredients together and make the cake spongy.
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil: Vegetable oil helps make the cake moister and softer.
- 1 cup of water: Water helps dissolve the ingredients and creates a smooth texture for the cake mixture.
- 1/4 cup melted butter: Butter adds a delicious flavor and helps caramelize beautifully.
- 1 cup brown sugar: Brown sugar helps create a sweet caramel layer and attractive color for the cake.
- 1 can of pineapple slices (retain the pineapple juice): Pineapple is the main ingredient that creates the unique flavor of the cake.
- Maraschino cherries (optional, for decoration): Cherries help decorate the cake to make it more eye-catching and delicious.
Making:
Step 1: Prepare:
- Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F).
- Apply a thin layer of butter to the cake mold to prevent the cake from sticking when baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Mold:
- Pour melted butter into the mold, sprinkle brown sugar evenly on top.
- Arrange pineapple slices and cherries in the bottom of the mold, taking care to arrange them evenly and beautifully.
Step 3: Prepare Cake Mix:
- Mix Duncan Hines cake mix with eggs, vegetable oil, water and pineapple juice from the can.
- Use an electric mixer to beat well until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
Step 4: Bake the Cake:
- Pour cake mixture into prepared pan. Be careful to pour gently so as not to dislodge the layer of pineapple and cherries.
- Bake in the oven for 40-45 minutes or until golden brown. Check by inserting a toothpick into the cake. If it comes out dry, the cake is done.
Step 5: Finishing:
- Take the cake out of the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes.
- Turn the cake mold upside down onto a plate, the cake will have a beautiful layer of pineapple and caramel on top.
Frequently asked Questions:
1. Can I substitute fresh pineapple for canned pineapple?
- Maybe, but canned pineapple helps retain moisture better and is easier to make because it’s been soaked in pineapple juice.
2. How to keep the cake from drying out?
- Pay attention to baking at the right time and temperature, don’t bake for too long. Use pineapple juice to keep the cake moist.
3. Can I use a cake mix other than Duncan Hines?
- Yes, but Duncan Hines cake mix is recommended for its consistent quality and flavor.
Tips:
- To give your cake a nice caramel layer, make sure the brown sugar and butter are mixed well and there are no lumps.
- Use pineapple juice in place of part of the water in the recipe to enhance the pineapple flavor.
- Let the cake cool for a few minutes before turning the mold upside down to prevent the cake from breaking.
- If you want the cake to have a richer flavor, you can add a little vanilla or coconut milk to the cake mixture.
Pineapple upside down cake is a dessert that is not only delicious but also easy to make with Duncan Hines cake mix. With sweet flavors from pineapple and caramel, this cake is sure to please both family and friends at small parties. Don’t hesitate to try making this cake and enjoy the wonderful taste it brings. With just a little ingenuity and time, you will have a delicious and attractive pineapple upside-down cake.