How do you make the topping for German chocolate cake and pineapple upside down cake?

German Chocolate Cake Topping:

Ingredients:

* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

* 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar

* 3 large eggs

* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

* 1 cup (6 ounces) semisweet chocolate chips

* 1 cup chopped pecans

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

3. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla.

4. In a separate bowl, melt chocolate chips over low heat or in the microwave.

5. Stir melted chocolate into the butter mixture.

6. Gently fold in the pecans.

7. Spread the topping evenly over the cooled cake layers.

Notes:

* For a richer topping, use dark chocolate chips instead of semisweet.

* You can use pecans, walnuts, or a combination of both.

* The topping can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Pineapple Upside Down Cake Topping:

Ingredients:

* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter

* 1 cup packed light brown sugar

* 1/2 cup chopped maraschino cherries (optional)

* 1 (20 ounce) can pineapple rings, drained

* 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Melt butter in a 9x13 inch baking pan over medium heat.

3. Sprinkle brown sugar evenly over melted butter.

4. Arrange pineapple rings in a single layer, overlapping as needed.

5. If using, sprinkle cherries and pecans on top.

6. Pour cake batter over the topping.

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

8. Let cool completely before inverting the cake onto a serving plate.

Notes:

* You can substitute fresh pineapple chunks for canned rings.

* Use a combination of butter and coconut oil for a richer flavor.

* For a sweeter topping, use dark brown sugar.

* If you don't have maraschino cherries, you can use other fruit like sliced strawberries or peaches.

Enjoy your delicious homemade cakes!