Haitian Upside-Down Cake

Ingredients:

For the Topping:

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter

• 1 cup packed brown sugar

• 1 can (20 oz) pineapple slices, drained

• Maraschino cherries (optional)

For the Cake Batter:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

• 1/2 cup whole milk

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan. Set it aside.

2. For the Topping: a. In a small saucepan, melt 1/2 cup of butter over low heat. b. Stir in the brown sugar until it's well combined and has a caramel-like consistency. Be careful not to burn it. c. Pour the caramel mixture into the greased cake pan and spread it evenly.

3. Place the pineapple slices on top of the caramel mixture. You can arrange them in a decorative pattern if you'd like. Add maraschino cherries in the center of each pineapple ring, if desired.

4. For the Cake Batter: a. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this dry mixture aside.

5. In a separate large mixing bowl, cream together 1/2 cup of softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This can take about 2-3 minutes.

6. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

7. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in the large bowl, alternating with the milk. Start and finish with the dry mixture. Mix until just combined.

8. Carefully pour the cake batter over the pineapple slices and caramel in the cake pan. Smooth the top so it's even.

9. Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

10. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, place a serving plate on top of the cake pan and carefully invert it to release the cake onto the plate.

11. Let the cake cool completely before serving. It can be served warm or at room temperature.

12. Slice, serve, and enjoy your delicious Haitian Upside-Down Cake! The sweet caramel, pineapple, and moist cake make for a delightful treat.

This cake is a delightful dessert that combines sweet caramel, tropical pineapple, and a moist, tender cake. It's a popular treat in Haiti and is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.