Making a Sweet Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is straightforward and rewarding. Follow these steps for a perfect cake every time:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Topping:
   • In a round cake pan, melt the butter in the oven.
   • Once melted, sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the butter.
3. Arrange the Pineapple:
   • Place the pineapple slices over the sugar mixture in an attractive pattern.
   • Add a maraschino cherry to the center of each pineapple slice if desired.
4. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   • In a medium-sized bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
5. Mix Wet Ingredients:
   • In another bowl, beat the eggs (or applesauce for a vegan option).
   • Add the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the eggs. Mix until well combined.
6. Combine Ingredients:
   • Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to ensure a light and fluffy cake.
7. Pour the Batter:
   • Pour the cake batter over the pineapple and sugar mixture in the pan, spreading it evenly.
8. Bake:
   • Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes.
   • The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Cool and Flip:
   • Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes.
   • Carefully run a knife around the edges of the pan.
   • Place a plate over the pan and invert the cake onto the plate.