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–+ servings
Skillet Cake
Skillet Cake is a retro dessert that transforms pantry staples into a warmly spiced, pineapple-infused treat, all in a single pan. What makes it special is the caramelized layer of butter and brown sugar under the fruit, baked directly in the skillet. This approach results in a rich, moist cake with a deep golden crust and a sweet-tangy fruit base. Popular in mid-20th century home cooking, this recipe blends convenience and charm, making it a great candidate for casual gatherings or nostalgic dessert cravings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 285 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 egg yolks
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 3 tbsp hot water
  • 4 egg whites
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 15 oz pineapple chunks (drained)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Make the Cake Batter

  • Beat the egg yolks in a bowl.
  • Add sugar and hot water, and mix well.
  • Sift together the flour and baking powder; add to the mixture.
  • Stir in vanilla.
  • Beat egg whites separately until stiff peaks form.
  • Gently fold beaten egg whites into the batter.

Step 2: Prepare Skillet Base

  • In a large ovenproof skillet, melt 3 tablespoons butter over medium heat.
  • Add 1 cup brown sugar and stir constantly until mixture becomes syrupy.

Step 3: Add Pineapple

  • Add the drained pineapple chunks to the skillet, spreading them evenly over the syrup.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

  • Pour cake batter over the pineapple mixture.
  • Bake in a moderate oven (about 350°F / 175°C) for 30 minutes.
  • Let cool slightly before inverting onto a serving plate.

Tips

  • Use a well-seasoned cast iron skillet to prevent sticking
  • Serve warm, inverted like an upside-down cake
  • Add a pinch of cinnamon to the brown sugar for extra warmth
  • Substitute crushed pineapple for a more even topping
  • Spoon pan syrup over slices when serving
  • Top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
  • For deeper caramel flavor, use dark brown sugar
  • Let rest 10 minutes before slicing for cleaner cuts

Nutrition

Calories: 285kcalCarbohydrates: 46gProtein: 4gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 95mgSodium: 165mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 1gSugar: 32gVitamin A: 320IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 1.4mg
Keyword cast iron baking, old-fashioned recipe, pineapple cake, skillet cake, vintage dessert
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