Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pineapple Upside Down Cake is a classic dessert known for its caramelized pineapple topping and moist, buttery cake base. With its beautiful presentation and nostalgic flavor, it’s perfect for celebrations, potlucks, or anytime you want a show-stopping treat that’s surprisingly easy to make. The combination of sweet pineapple, rich brown sugar, and soft cake creates a timeless dessert everyone loves.

ingredients

this Recipe

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

canned pineapple slicesmaraschino cherriesbrown sugarsalted buttergranulated sugarall-purpose flourbaking powdereggsvanilla extractmilk

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan.

Melt butter and brown sugar together in a saucepan or microwave. Pour the mixture into the bottom of the cake pan.

Arrange pineapple slices over the brown sugar mixture. Place a maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple ring.

In a mixing bowl, cream together butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract.

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder.

Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture alternately with milk, mixing just until combined.

Pour the batter over the pineapple and smooth the top.

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

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Run a knife around the edges, then invert onto a serving plate.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 8 servings.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40-45 minutes
Cooling time: 10 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

Use fresh pineapple slices for a bolder flavor.

Add a splash of rum or pineapple juice to the batter for extra depth.

Swap cherries for pecans or walnuts for a nutty twist.

Make individual upside down cupcakes using a muffin tin.

Use a boxed cake mix for a quicker version.

storage/reheating

Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds.
Freeze slices tightly wrapped for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pineapple?

Yes, just slice it thinly to ensure even cooking.

Is it okay to use a different cake pan?

Yes, a square or rectangular pan works, but the shape may affect presentation.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, it keeps well for a day or two and can be reheated slightly before serving.

Why did my cake stick to the pan?

Make sure to grease well and allow it to cool slightly before inverting.

Can I use a boxed cake mix?

Yes, a yellow or butter cake mix can be used for convenience.

Are maraschino cherries necessary?

They’re traditional, but you can omit or replace with berries or nuts.

What if I don’t have brown sugar?

You can use white sugar, but it won’t have the same caramel flavor.

Can I use oil instead of butter?

Butter is preferred for flavor, especially in the topping, but oil can be used in the batter.

Is this cake very sweet?

It’s sweet and rich, especially with the caramelized topping.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.

Conclusion

Pineapple Upside Down Cake is a timeless dessert that’s both easy to make and visually stunning. With its caramelized fruit topping and soft, flavorful cake, it’s a crowd-pleaser that never goes out of style. Whether you stick to the classic or try a fun variation, this dessert is sure to delight.

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