Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pineapple Upside Down Cake is the perfect dessert to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. The combination of the tender, buttery cake and the caramelized pineapple topping creates a delightful contrast of textures. Each bite of this cake brings together the tropical flavors of pineapple and the sweetness of the golden glaze. It’s easy to make, visually stunning, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser for any occasion!

Ingredients

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1 can (20 oz) pineapple slices in juice, drained (reserve juice for the cake batter)
9 maraschino cherries
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup reserved pineapple juice (from the canned pineapple)
1/4 cup milk

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Topping:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a 9-inch round cake pan, melt the butter in the oven or microwave and swirl to coat the bottom of the pan evenly. Sprinkle the brown sugar over the melted butter, creating a caramel-like layer.
Arrange the Pineapple and Cherries:
Place the pineapple slices on top of the brown sugar mixture in the pan. Arrange the pineapple slices in a single layer, and place a maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple slice. If you have extra pineapple slices, you can place them along the edges of the pan.
Make the Cake Batter:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the reserved pineapple juice and milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Assemble the Cake:
Pour the cake batter over the arranged pineapple slices in the cake pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Bake the Cake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
Cool and Flip:
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully invert the pan onto a serving plate or cake stand. Gently lift off the pan to reveal the beautifully caramelized pineapple topping. Let the cake cool slightly before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8-10
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 40-45 minutes
Cooling time: 10 minutes (before flipping)

Variations

Coconut Pineapple Upside Down Cake: Add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut to the batter for a tropical twist on this classic cake.
Peach or Mango Variation: Swap the pineapple for fresh peaches, mangoes, or any fruit you like for a unique take on the traditional recipe.
Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake batter for a hint of warmth and spice.
Alcohol Infusion: For a grown-up version, add 2 tablespoons of rum or dark rum to the cake batter for a tropical depth of flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover Pineapple Upside Down Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. It’s best served fresh, but it can be stored for a short time without losing its flavor.
Refrigeration: If you need to store the cake for longer, refrigerate it for up to 4 days. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Freezing: You can freeze Pineapple Upside Down Cake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pineapple. Simply cut it into rings and caramelize it in the pan with butter and brown sugar before adding the cake batter. Fresh pineapple may release more juice, so be mindful of the amount of liquid when preparing the cake batter.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Pineapple Upside Down Cake a day ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container at room temperature and flip it just before serving.

How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?

Make sure to coat the bottom of the cake pan thoroughly with melted butter before adding the brown sugar. After the cake has cooled for 10 minutes, carefully invert it to avoid sticking.

Can I use a different pan size?

If you don’t have a 9-inch cake pan, you can use a slightly larger or smaller pan, but keep in mind that the baking time may change. If you use a smaller pan, the cake will be thicker, and if you use a larger pan, it will be thinner.

Can I add nuts to the topping?

Yes, you can sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans over the pineapple before adding the cake batter. The nuts will add a delightful crunch and additional flavor to the cake.

What can I substitute for maraschino cherries?

If you’re not a fan of maraschino cherries, you can use fresh cherries or other fruits like strawberries or even candied cherries.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend to replace the all-purpose flour. Be sure to check the other ingredients (like baking powder) to ensure they are gluten-free.

Why is my pineapple topping soggy?

Make sure you drain the pineapple slices well before placing them in the pan, and don’t pour any excess juice into the cake batter. If the cake topping is too soggy, it may be due to too much juice or undercooking.

How do I know when the cake is done?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached. The edges should be golden brown, and the cake should be firm to the touch.

Can I make this cake in a bundt pan?

Yes, you can make Pineapple Upside Down Cake in a bundt pan, though you’ll need to adjust the arrangement of the pineapple and cherries to fit the shape of the pan. The baking time may vary slightly, so check for doneness with a toothpick.

Conclusion

Pineapple Upside Down Cake is a classic dessert that combines the rich flavors of caramelized pineapple and a buttery, moist cake. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a holiday celebration, or a casual get-together, this cake is guaranteed to be a showstopper. With its sweet and tangy topping and fluffy texture, it’s the perfect balance of flavors and an easy dessert to prepare. Plus, the joy of flipping the cake to reveal the gorgeous topping makes it even more fun to make and serve!