Mini Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Jars for Parties and Gifts

These little Pineapple Upside Down Cake Jars are ideal for picnics, gatherings, or any time you want a portable, charming dessert.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cups chopped fresh pineapple, cut into 1/2-inch chunks
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar
• 9 red maraschino cherries, without stems

CAKE LAYER

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 stick unsalted butter
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2/3 cup milk

TOPPING

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 9 maraschino cherries (for topping)

Instructions

PINEAPPLE LAYER

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

1. Melt the butter in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped pineapple and brown sugar and cook, stirring occasionally, until the pineapple is golden and slightly soft, about 5 to 6 minutes.
2. Divide the pineapple mixture and maraschino cherries evenly among nine 8-ounce mason jars, pressing lightly to level the fruit layer. Set aside.

CAKE LAYER

1. Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes. Add the egg and vanilla and mix until combined.
3. On low speed, add half the flour mixture and the milk, then the remaining flour, mixing just until incorporated. Do not overmix.
4. Divide the batter evenly among the jars and level the tops with a spoon.
5. Place the jars on a baking sheet, spaced apart, and bake until the cake tops are light golden and a toothpick inserted into the cake portion comes out clean, about 30 to 35 minutes. Cool on a wire rack, then refrigerate until fully cool.

TOPPING

1. Whip the heavy cream until it begins to thicken. Increase speed to high and whip to soft peaks. Add powdered sugar, cream cheese, and vanilla, and beat until stiff peaks form.
2. Divide the topping among the cooled jars and place a cherry on top of each.
3. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve. See notes below.

• The cream cheese stabilizes the whipped cream, helping it hold up at room temperature for a reasonable period.
• For best freshness and portability, wait to add the topping until just before serving so you can close the jars with lids. You may warm the cakes slightly before topping if you prefer them warm.