Grilled Pineapple Upside-Down Cake

Rich and delicious, this pineapple cake is sure to satisfy your guests.
Difficulty:
2/5
Prep time:
20 min
Cook time:
45 min
Serves:
6-8

INGREDIENTS

  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
  • 6 slices fresh pineapple, or substitute: 3 apples, pears or another firm fresh fruit, peeled and sliced
  • 6 maraschino cherries
  • 1/3 cup butter
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 2 eggs, beaten lightly
  • 1/2 teaspoons vanilla
  • 1/4 teaspoons salt
  • 1 1/4 cups flour, all-purpose
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder

DIRECTIONS

  1. Preheat barbecue on MEDIUM for 10 minutes. Adjust heat setting so that oven thermometer consistently reads 350°F (176°C). Try baking indirect with some burners on and others off. Left / right on, middle off.
  2. For the batter: Mix together the butter, sugar, cinnamon and ginger, and spread on the bottom of a heavy grill–proof 10-in (25 cm) baking pan, preferably cast iron or coated cast iron. Arrange the fruit on top and sprinkle with lemon juice.
  3. In a separate mixing bowl, combine butter and sugar, and beat until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, vanilla and salt and stir until smooth. Add flour and baking powder and beat for one minute. Pour the batter over the fruit layer.
  4. Place pan on the left side of the grill and turn off the left burner. Close the lid and cook until the top of the cake springs back, about 45 minutes. Monitor the thermometer on the front of the grill lid frequently and adjust the cooking temperature to maintain a temperature of 350°F (176°C).