Boozy Grilled Pineapple Upside-Down Cake

A Classic Dessert, Boozy & Grilled

This boozy grilled pineapple upside-down cake is a twist on an age-old classic dessert that's perfect for any occasion. For this occasion, we teamed up with ABC Fine Wine & Spirits to take this dessert to the next level, while supporting a noble cause. ABC is helping to raise critical funds to support National Pediatric Cancer Foundation’s mission, to find less toxic and more effective methods to fight pediatric cancer. To do my part in protecting our children, I am making this recipe using the High West Bourbon Whiskey to impart some deep flavor into the dessert.

 The combination of sweet, caramelized pineapple and moist cake is simply irresistible. Now with some bourbon in the mix, who can say no? The grilled element presents your guests with that “wow” factor. The slight hint of smoke really sets it off. This recipe is so easy, we nailed it on the Weber Kettle multiple times. If however you have an easier grill, the recipe is flexible to fit your style and situation.

Ingredients:

For the Pineapple Layer:

• 1 pineapple peeled and sliced into rings

• 1/8 cup packed brown sugar

• 1/2 stick butter

• Maraschino cherries

• High West Bourbon Whiskey

For the Cake:

• 1 box yellow cake mix

• Ingredients for cake mix as directed on the box

Make A Glaze:

• Leftover pineapple infused bourbon

• ½ cup brown sugar

• 1 cinnamon stick

• 1 tsp allspice berries

• 1 tsp Jamaican Jerk dry seasoning

Instructions:

1. Prep Pineapple:  Overnight, soak the pineapple slices in bourbon to infuse the flavor. 

2. Day of Cook: Grill pineapple slices on one side only.

3. Save The Booze: Save the booze to make a secret glaze that will knock your socks off.

4. Prepare the Pan: Preheat grill to 350°F (175°C). Place a 9-10 -inch cast iron skillet in the grill with butter to melt.

5. Make the Pineapple Layer: Sprinkle brown sugar in the butter to slightly coat the base of the pan. Arrange pineapple rings in the bottom of the pan with the grill marks facing away. Place cherries inside the pineapple rings.

6. Prepare the Cake Batter: Prepare the cake batter according to the package directions.

7. Pour Batter Over Pineapple: Pour the cake batter over the pineapple layer.

8. Make The Glaze: While the cake is baking, get a small skillet and build this glaze. Over medium heat, heat the pineapple infused bourbon with ½ cup of sugar, a cinnamon stick, 1 tsp allspice berries and a tsp of my Jamaican Jerk dry rub. Reduce the liquid by half and turn off the heat and let cool. This should yield a thick, sticky, boozy glaze that your cake doesn't really need, but it will appreciate it. 

9. Bake: Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

10. Cool and Invert: Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting onto a serving plate.

11. Drizzle: Drizzle the cake with the glaze you just made.

Tips for the Perfect Pineapple Upside-Down Cake:

• Don't Overbake: Overbaking can lead to a dry cake.

• Use a Fresh Pineapple: A fresh pineapple will make a big difference in the flavor of your cake. The rigs will not be soggy and won’t break during grilling.

• Serve Warm: Serve the cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for the ultimate indulgence.

 If you want to do your part, head over to your nearest ABC Fine Wine & Spirits and round up your purchase at the register.

Don't have an ABC store nearby? No sweat. Click the link right here to learn how you can support The National Pediatric Cancer Foundation from wherever you are.

Keep it simple, this is the same pineapple upside down cake you’ve been making for ages. Today, you’re getting it “grillified” with a hint of booze. While you enjoy this decadent dessert, remember, you did this for a cause that really matters. Enjoy this delicious and easy-to-make dessert!