To create the perfect Pineapple Upside-Down Cake, follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Pan: Melt ½ cup of butter and pour it into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Swirl it around to cover the bottom evenly.
3. Add Brown Sugar: Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the melted butter in the pan.
4. Arrange Pineapples: Place the pineapple slices on top of the brown sugar mixture. Tuck maraschino cherries into the center of each pineapple ring as desired.
5. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
6. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat the remaining ½ cup of softened butter, eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
7. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined and no lumps remain.
8. Pour Batter: Pour the batter over the arranged pineapples in the baking pan, spreading it evenly.
9. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
10. Cool: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for about 10-15 minutes.
11. Invert the Cake: Carefully invert the cake onto a serving platter so that the pineapple topping is facing up.

With these straightforward steps, you’ll create a delightful Pineapple Upside-Down Cake that is sure to impress.