Jamie Oliver Pineapple Upside-down Cake is a delicious dessert, featuring a moist, fluffy cake topped with caramelized pineapple slices and cherries. It’s a classic retro treat that never goes out of style. This recipe serves 8-10 people and can be prepared in approximately 1 hour.
In this article, I will show you how to make Jamie Oliver Pineapple Upside-down Cake step by step, with tips and tricks along the way.
What is Jamie Oliver Pineapple Upside-down Cake?
Jamie Oliver Pineapple Upside-down Cake is a variation of the traditional pineapple upside-down cake, which is believed to have originated in the early 20th century, when canned pineapples became widely available. The cake is baked in a single pan, with a layer of pineapple slices and cherries arranged on the bottom, and a layer of cake batter poured over them. As the cake bakes, the pineapple and cherries caramelize in the brown sugar and butter, creating a sticky, sweet topping. When the cake is done, it is inverted onto a plate, revealing the beautiful pineapple upside-down pattern.
Jamie Oliver’s version of this cake is inspired by his childhood memories of his mum making it for him and his siblings. He adds some vanilla and cinnamon to the cake batter, and uses fresh pineapple instead of canned, for a more natural and vibrant flavor. He also uses a springform cake tin, which makes it easier to release the cake without breaking it.
Other Cake Recipes
- Mary Berry Pineapple Upside Down Cake
- Hairy Bikers Pineapple Upside Down Cake
- Mary Berry Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Mary Berry All Bran Tea Bread
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this recipe because:
- Simplicity: Easy instructions and accessible ingredients.
- Flavor and Texture: A perfect blend of moist, fluffy cake with a hint of spice under a caramelized fruit topping.
- Visual Appeal: The golden pineapple pattern and vibrant cherries make it a feast for the eyes.
- Versatility: Ideal for various occasions, offering both warm and cold serving options.
Ingredients Needed to Make Jamie Oliver Pineapple Upside-down Cake
To make Jamie Oliver’s Pineapple Upside-down Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into thin slices
- 12 glacé cherries, halved
- 100 g unsalted butter, plus extra for greasing
- 100 g light brown sugar
- 200 g self-raising flour
- 200 g caster sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- A pinch of salt
Instructions to Make Jamie Oliver Pineapple Upside-down Cake Recipe
To make Jamie Oliver Pineapple Upside-down Cake, follow these steps:
Step 1: Preheat the oven and prepare the cake tin
- Preheat the oven to 180°C/160°C fan/gas 4.
- Grease a 23 cm springform cake tin with some butter, and line the base with parchment paper.
- Arrange the pineapple slices in a single layer on the base of the tin, filling any gaps with the cherry halves.
- Set aside.
Step 2: Make the caramel sauce
- In a small saucepan over low-medium heat, melt the butter and brown sugar together, stirring occasionally, until smooth and bubbly.
- Pour the caramel sauce evenly over the pineapple and cherries, and set aside.
Step 3: Make the cake batter
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, caster sugar, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt, until well combined and smooth.
- Carefully spoon the cake batter over the caramel sauce, spreading it gently with a spatula to cover the fruit.
- Tap the tin lightly on the counter to remove any air bubbles.
Step 4: Bake the cake
- Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until golden and a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool slightly in the tin for 10 minutes, then run a knife around the edge to loosen it.
- Carefully release the springform ring, and invert the cake onto a large serving plate.
- Peel off the parchment paper, and admire your pineapple upside-down cake.
What Do I Serve With Jamie Oliver Pineapple Upside-down Cake?
Elevating the serving experience of Jamie Oliver’s Pineapple Upside-down Cake goes beyond its delightful taste and presentation. Complementing this classic dessert with the right accompaniment can transform each bite into a more indulgent experience.
Consider these suggestions:
- Whipped Cream: A light, airy option that adds a smooth texture contrast.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Its creamy richness perfectly balances the cake’s warm spices.
- Custard: A traditional pairing that introduces a silky, comforting element.
- Yogurt: For those seeking a tangy contrast, a dollop of yogurt offers a refreshing twist.
- Coconut Cream: Adds a tropical flair that echoes the pineapple’s exotic notes.
Pro Tips to Make Perfect Jamie Oliver Pineapple Upside-down Cake
Achieving perfection with Jamie Oliver’s Pineapple Upside-down Cake is within reach with these expert tips:
- Opt for Fresh Pineapple: Beyond its superior taste and texture, fresh pineapple contains less sugar, enhancing the cake’s natural flavors.
- Thin Slices are Key: Thinly sliced pineapple ensures even cooking and optimal caramelization, crucial for that signature sticky-sweet topping.
- Choosing the Right Tin: A springform tin is recommended for ease of release, minimizing the risk of breakage. If using a standard tin, meticulous greasing and lining are essential for a smooth inversion.
- Batter Consistency Matters: Avoid overmixing to prevent the cake from becoming dense. Aim for a smooth, well-combined batter.
- Mind the Baking Time: Overbaking is the enemy of moisture. Start checking for doneness at 40 minutes to ensure a moist, tender crumb.
- Cool Before Inverting: Allowing the cake to cool slightly facilitates easier handling and reduces the risk of crumbling during inversion.
Variations of Jamie Oliver Pineapple Upside-down Cake
Personalizing Jamie Oliver’s Pineapple Upside-down Cake invites both innovation and tradition into your baking:
- Fruit Variations: Substitute pineapple with peaches, pears, apples, or plums to explore different flavor profiles.
- Introduce Nuts: Incorporate pecans, walnuts, or almonds into the caramel sauce for added crunch and depth of flavor.
- Spice It Up: Adding spices like nutmeg, ginger, or cardamom to the batter can introduce warmth and complexity.
- Sugar Alternatives: Experiment with dark brown sugar, muscovado, or coconut sugar in the caramel for a richer, more nuanced sweetness.
- Flour Choices: Cater to dietary needs without compromising on taste by using whole wheat, spelled, or gluten-free flour.
How do I Store Jamie Oliver Pineapple Upside-down Cake Leftovers?
Proper storage of Jamie Oliver’s Pineapple Upside-down Cake ensures that you can enjoy this delightful dessert beyond the day it’s made.
Here’s how to keep your cake as fresh as possible:
- Cooling: Allow the cake to cool to room temperature before proceeding with any storage steps. This prevents condensation inside the wrapping or container, which could make the cake soggy.
- Wrapping: Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap to protect it from air and moisture. If you prefer, you can place the cake in an airtight container. Either method will help maintain its freshness and flavor.
- Refrigeration: Store the wrapped or contained cake in the refrigerator if you plan to enjoy it within the next 3 days. The cool environment helps preserve its moist texture and prevents any topping from becoming too hard.
- Freezing: For longer storage, the freezer is your best option. Properly wrapped, your cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Freezing is an excellent way to extend the life of your cake without compromising its quality.
How do I Reheat Jamie Oliver Pineapple Upside-down Cake Leftovers?
To reheat Jamie Oliver Pineapple Upside-down Cake leftovers, follow these steps:
- Thawing: If your cake has been frozen, allow it to thaw gradually in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. This gentle thawing ensures the cake retains its moisture and texture.
- Preheating: Before reheating, preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F) or 140°C (284°F) for fan-assisted ovens, or gas mark 3. This temperature is ideal for warming the cake without drying it out.
- Preparing for Reheating: Place the cake on a baking sheet and loosely cover it with aluminum foil. This helps distribute the heat evenly while keeping the moisture in, ensuring the cake doesn’t dry out during the reheating process.
- Warming: Heat the cake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes. The goal is to warm it through without overbaking. Check the cake occasionally to prevent overheating.
- Serving: Once warmed, your Pineapple Upside-down Cake is ready to enjoy. Serve it as is or with a side of your favorite accompaniment for an added treat.
FAQs
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh in Jamie Oliver’s Pineapple Upside-down Cake?
Yes, you can use canned pineapple as a substitute for fresh pineapple in the recipe. While fresh pineapple offers a more vibrant flavor and texture, canned pineapple is a convenient and accessible alternative. Ensure the pineapple slices are well-drained to remove excess syrup, which could otherwise affect the cake’s texture and sweetness level.
How Thin Should I Cut the Pineapple Slices?
For optimal caramelization and even cooking, pineapple slices should be cut to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (6mm). Thin slices ensure that the pineapple cooks through and caramelizes evenly without becoming too mushy or retaining a raw texture. This thickness strikes the perfect balance between maintaining the pineapple’s integrity and allowing it to blend harmoniously with the cake and caramel.
Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Pineapple Upside-down Cake in a Regular Cake Tin?
Yes, you can make this cake in a regular cake tin if you don’t have a springform tin. To ensure a successful release of the cake, grease the tin thoroughly and line the bottom with parchment paper. After baking, allow the cake to cool slightly, then run a knife around the edges before inverting it onto a serving plate. This method may require a bit more care when inverting, but it can yield equally beautiful and delicious results.
How Do I Know When the Cake is Perfectly Baked?
The cake is perfectly baked when it’s golden brown on top, and a skewer or toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating that the batter is fully cooked through. This usually takes about 40-45 minutes at the specified oven temperature. Additionally, the cake should start to pull away from the sides of the tin slightly, another sign that it’s done. Keep a close eye on the baking process, especially towards the end, to avoid overbaking and drying out the cake.
Final Words
I hope you enjoyed this article on how to make Jamie Oliver Pineapple Upside-down Cake. This is a delicious dessert that is easy to make, moist, fluffy, and buttery, with a rich caramel flavor and a hint of spice. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday, a holiday, or a family gathering. It’s also beautiful to look at, with a golden pineapple upside-down pattern and bright red cherries. It’s delicious served warm or cold, with whipped cream, ice cream, or custard.
If you have any questions, comments, or feedback, please feel free to leave them below. I’d love to hear from you.
Thank you for reading, and happy baking!