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Mary Berry Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Mary Berry's Pineapple Upside Down Cake is a delightful twist on a classic dessert that has always held a special place in my heart and kitchen. This cake, characterized by its caramelized pineapple topping with cherries, is flipped after baking to reveal a stunning design that's as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. Mary Berry, with her quintessential British baking charm, brings simplicity and elegance to this recipe, ensuring it's a foolproof addition to any baker's repertoire.

Ingredients

  • 100 g 3.5 oz softened unsalted butter, plus extra for greasing
  • 100 g 3.5 oz caster sugar
  • 100 g 3.5 oz self-raising flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 4-6 pineapple rings canned or fresh
  • Glacé cherries
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar for the base of the cake tin

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F, Gas Mark 4) and grease a 20cm (8-inch) round cake tin.
  • Prepare the Cake Tin: Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly at the bottom of the greased tin. Arrange the pineapple rings to cover the base, and place a glacé cherry in the center of each ring.
  • Make the Cake Batter: In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and caster sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually beat in the eggs, one at a time, adding a little flour with each to prevent curdling. Fold in the remaining flour, baking powder, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth.
  • Bake the Cake: Pour the cake batter over the pineapple and cherries, spreading it out gently to cover them. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Flip the Cake: Let the cake cool in the tin for about 5 minutes, then place a plate over the tin and carefully turn it upside down. Tap the tin lightly to release the cake.

Notes

Serve the cake warm or at room temperature, ideally on the day it's made for the best texture and flavor. If you're serving it as a dessert, a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side can add a delightful richness.