Delicious Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Recipe

Introduction

In the world of decadent desserts, few creations evoke the same sense of warmth and indulgence as an upside-down cake. This particular rendition, featuring the harmonious pairing of sweet Bartlett pears and the subtle, almond-infused aroma of Amaretto, elevates the classic dessert to a new level of sophistication. Perfectly balanced between fruity sweetness and rich cake, this Amaretto and Bartlett Pears Upside-Down Cake offers a luxurious experience that appeals to the senses, making it an ideal choice for special occasions, intimate dinners, or simply a treat to elevate your day.

Developed from a treasured recipe sourced from a local newspaper, this dessert has garnered rave reviews for its irresistible flavor profile and beautiful presentation. The caramelized pears atop a moist, tender cake, infused with the delicate essence of Amaretto, create a layered taste sensation that delights both the eyes and palate. Whether served in individual ramekins or a large cake pan, this recipe is versatile, impressive, and guaranteed to leave a lasting impression on guests and loved ones alike.

At Love With Recipes, we believe that desserts should be as delightful to prepare as they are to eat. This recipe encapsulates that philosophy, offering a detailed, comprehensive guide to mastering this elegant dessert with tips and tricks along the way. Let’s embark on this culinary journey to create a show-stopping upside-down cake that combines fruity elegance with boozy warmth, perfect for any celebration or cozy night in.

Time

Preparation Time:

20 minutes

Cooking Time:

30 minutes

Total Time:

50 minutes

Needed Equipment

• Oven capable of reaching 350°F (175°C)
• Six 1 1/4 cup ramekins, custard cups, or large muffin tins (preferably non-stick or well-greased)
• Small saucepan
• Mixing bowls (medium and large)
• Electric mixer or hand whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Spatula or spoon for mixing
• Cooling rack
• Serving plates or cake stand
• Optional: parchment paper or silicone baking mats for easier removal

Tags

Sweet, Fruity, Elegant Dessert, Upside-Down Cake, Pears, Amaretto, Baked Goods, Gourmet, Fall/Winter Special, Quick & Easy, Impressive Presentation

Serving Size

Each individual portion in ramekins: approximately 1 serving per ramekin. If baked as a large cake, serves approximately 8-10 slices depending on thickness.

Difficulty Level

Intermediate. This recipe involves multiple steps including caramelizing fruit, preparing batter, and carefully flipping the cake. Attention to detail ensures perfect results.

Allergen Information

• Contains: Eggs, dairy (butter, milk), gluten (flour), almonds/almond flavoring (from Amaretto)
• Potential cross-reactivity: Nut allergy considerations due to Amaretto flavoring

Dietary Preference

Contains alcohol (Amaretto), suitable for adult consumption. Not suitable for gluten-free or dairy-free diets unless modifications are made.

Course

Dessert

Cuisine

European / American

Ingredients

Instructions

Prepping the Caramelized Pears and Base

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the oven reaches the right temperature by the time your batter is ready for baking. Next, prepare your ramekins or muffin tins by thoroughly buttering each cavity. Use a brush or a paper towel to coat all sides evenly with butter, preventing sticking and facilitating easy removal of the finished upside-down cakes.

In a small saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over low heat. Once melted, add 1/2 cup of brown sugar and 2 tablespoons of honey. Stir gently to combine, allowing the sugar to dissolve into the butter, creating a smooth, caramel-like mixture. Continue to cook over low heat for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture no longer separates or appears grainy. This process develops the caramel flavor and ensures a glossy, sticky base for the pears.

Divide this caramel evenly among the prepared ramekins, spooning or pouring it into the bottom of each. Use a spoon or small spatula to spread the caramel evenly across the base, ensuring every corner is coated. This layer will become the luscious topping once flipped, so a uniform distribution enhances both appearance and flavor.

Preparing the Pears

Wash and peel the Bartlett pears. To peel, use a sharp vegetable peeler, removing the skin in long strips for an elegant presentation. After peeling, cut each pear into quarters lengthwise. Then, remove the core and seed area by slicing out the tough stem and blossom ends, or by using a melon baller if preferred. Slice each quarter into approximately 3 evenly-sized wedges, totaling 12 wedges per pear.

Arrange four pear wedges in each ramekin, placing them on top of the caramel layer. Fan them out for visual appeal and better coverage, ensuring they are snugly packed but not overly compressed. The pears will soften and caramelize during baking, infusing the cake with their sweet aroma and flavor.

Preparing the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, beat 6 tablespoons of butter until it becomes light and fluffy. Using an electric mixer on medium speed or a whisk, beat for about 2-3 minutes. This step aerates the butter, creating a tender crumb in the finished cake. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to incorporate air and ensure a smooth, homogeneous mixture. Add a teaspoon or two of vanilla extract if desired, for extra depth of flavor, although this is optional.

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: 1 1/2 cups of flour, 1/2 cup of sugar, 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Mix thoroughly to distribute the leavening agents evenly. This step is critical for even rising and a consistent crumb.

In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup of milk and 1/4 cup of Amaretto. Stir to blend the flavors, creating a fragrant, boozy liquid that will add moisture and depth to the cake. Slowly add half of the dry ingredients to the creamed butter and eggs mixture, mixing on low speed or gently folding until just incorporated. Follow with half of the Amaretto-milk mixture, again mixing until just combined. Repeat these steps with the remaining dry ingredients and liquid, ensuring the batter remains light and smooth without overmixing, which can toughen the cake.

Assembling and Baking

Pour the prepared batter evenly over the pears in each ramekin, smoothing the surface with a spatula or the back of a spoon. The batter should be just enough to cover the fruit, creating a balanced ratio of cake to fruit. Place the ramekins on a baking sheet to catch any drips and facilitate handling.

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes. The cakes are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. The top should be golden, and the cake should have risen slightly above the ramekin’s edge. Remove from the oven and allow to rest on a cooling rack for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the cake to set and makes flipping easier.

Unmolding and Serving

Carefully run a thin knife around the edges of each ramekin to loosen the cake from the sides. Place a serving plate or cake stand over the top of the ramekin. Using oven mitts, carefully invert the ramekin, tapping gently if needed, to release the upside-down cake onto the plate. If the caramel and pears stick slightly, gently lift the ramekin to help the cake release cleanly.

Serve immediately, preferably warm, with a dollop of lightly sweetened cream or a dusting of powdered sugar. Toasted almond slices sprinkled on top add texture and visual appeal. The cake pairs beautifully with a glass of additional Amaretto or a cup of coffee, enhancing the almond and fruit flavors.

Preparation Tips

• Use ripe but firm Bartlett pears for optimal flavor and texture. Overripe pears may become mushy during baking, affecting presentation.
• Ensure the caramel is cooked over low heat to prevent burning and to develop a rich, smooth consistency.
• If you prefer a less boozy flavor, reduce the Amaretto to 2-3 tablespoons or substitute with almond extract.
• For a more pronounced almond flavor, add a few drops of almond extract to the batter or sprinkle sliced almonds on top before baking.
• To make the cake gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free baking mix and ensure your baking powder is gluten-free.
• Always test doneness with a toothpick; avoid overbaking, which can dry out the cake.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• Chill the baked cakes briefly before flipping to help the caramel set and prevent breakage.
• Use a silicone spatula to gently lift and loosen the edges for a clean flip.
• If the caramel becomes too thick or hardens before flipping, gently warm the ramekins again to soften.
• For an even more gourmet touch, add a splash of Grand Marnier or other fruit liqueurs to the batter.
• Make ahead: Prepare the caramel and pears a day in advance, assemble and bake just before serving for maximum freshness.

Add-ons and Variations

• Top with whipped mascarpone or vanilla bean custard for extra richness.
• Introduce a layer of almond cream or frangipane beneath the pears for added decadence.
• Sprinkle sliced almonds or chopped toasted hazelnuts on top before baking for crunch and flavor.
• Use different stone fruits like peaches or nectarines for seasonal variations.
• Infuse the batter with a dash of orange zest or lemon zest for citrus brightness.

Side Dishes

• Lightly sweetened whipped cream or vanilla ice cream complements the warm cake beautifully.
• Fresh berries such as raspberries or blueberries add tartness and color contrast.
• Caramel sauce or a dusting of powdered sugar enhances presentation and flavor.
• Serve with a cup of espresso or strong black coffee to balance the sweetness.

Improvements

• Experiment with different types of pears—Anjou or Bosc—for varied texture and flavor.
• Adjust the amount of Amaretto to suit your taste, or substitute with almond extract for a non-alcoholic version.
• Use brown butter in the cake batter for a deeper, nuttier flavor.
• Incorporate a layer of fruit preserves or jam between the pear layer and batter for additional fruitiness.
• Switch to a silicone mold to make unmolding even easier and more uniform.

Save and Store

Once cooled, store the upside-down cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. For longer storage, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month. To serve again, thaw at room temperature and reheat gently if desired.

Note: The caramel layer may harden upon refrigeration, but can be softened by warming in the oven or briefly in the microwave before serving.

FAQ

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free baking mix or almond flour, adjusting the baking time accordingly. Ensure your baking powder is gluten-free as well.

Can I omit the alcohol?

Absolutely. Replace the Amaretto with an equal amount of almond extract or vanilla extract for a similar flavor without alcohol.

What if I don’t have ramekins?

You can bake the batter in a small round cake pan or a cast-iron skillet. Adjust baking time as needed; start checking for doneness at 25 minutes.

How do I prevent the pears from sticking?

Ensure the pears are well coated with caramel and evenly arranged. Greasing the ramekins thoroughly and using a non-stick spray can help.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble the pears and caramel in advance, refrigerate, and bake just before serving. However, for optimal texture and flavor, best enjoyed fresh.

Conclusion

This Amaretto and Bartlett Pears Upside-Down Cake exemplifies the art of combining simple ingredients with sophisticated techniques to produce a dessert that is both visually stunning and decadently flavorful. From the caramelized pear topping to the moist, tender cake infused with almond liqueur, every element is crafted for maximum indulgence. Perfect for impressing guests or elevating a family meal, this recipe invites you to experience the comforting elegance of a classic dessert reimagined with a boozy twist. Remember to source ripe pears and quality ingredients to ensure the best outcome. We at Love With Recipes hope this detailed guide inspires you to create a dessert that delights all senses and becomes a treasured part of your culinary repertoire.

References

• Williams Sonoma. (n.d.). Upside-Down Cake Recipes. Retrieved from https://www.williams-sonoma.com
• Bon Appétit. (2020). Pear Desserts: Elegant and Easy. Retrieved from https://www.bonappetit.com