Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the sweet, tropical taste of pineapple with a moist, buttery cake base. The aroma of caramelized sugar and pineapple wafting through your kitchen will have your family racing to the table.
Remember those summer barbecues where dessert was the highlight? That’s when I first tasted this delicious Pineapple Upside-Down Cake, and it instantly became a favorite. It’s perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying during cozy evenings at home.
Why You'll Love This Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
- This incredible Pineapple Upside-Down Cake transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly
I still remember the time I made this cake for my mom’s birthday; her smile lit up the room as she took her first bite.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Canned Pineapple Rings: Opt for ones in juice rather than syrup for a lighter flavor that won’t overpower the cake.
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Maraschino Cherries: These add a pop of color and sweetness; grab some extra for snacking if you can resist!
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Brown Sugar: Use light brown sugar for a mild molasses flavor that complements the pineapple perfectly.
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Unsalted Butter: Always use unsalted to control the saltiness; it also helps achieve that rich, buttery taste.
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All-Purpose Flour: A versatile ingredient that provides structure; sift it to prevent lumps and ensure smooth batter.
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Baking Powder: This is essential for rising; check your expiration date to ensure your cake rises perfectly.
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Granulated Sugar: A staple sweetener; it balances out the tartness of the pineapple beautifully.
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Eggs: Use large eggs at room temperature to help create a fluffy texture in your cake.
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Vanilla Extract: A splash of good-quality vanilla enhances all the flavors in this delightful dessert.
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Milk: Whole milk adds richness and moisture; an absolute must for achieving a tender crumb.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
Prepare Your Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter and sprinkle brown sugar evenly across the bottom.
Add Pineapple and Cherries: Arrange pineapple rings in a decorative pattern on top of the brown sugar. Place maraschino cherries inside each ring for extra flair.
Create the Batter: In a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in vanilla extract.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients while alternating with milk until just combined.
Bake Your Cake: Pour batter over the arranged pineapples in the pan. Bake in preheated oven for about 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean and golden brown on top.
Cool and Serve: Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before carefully flipping onto a serving plate. Allow it to cool slightly so that oozing caramel can set just right before slicing.
Now you’ve created something truly special! Each slice reveals beautiful layers of caramelized pineapple glistening atop soft cake—an impressive centerpiece guaranteed to wow anyone you serve it to!
You Must Know About Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
- This showstopping Pineapple Upside-Down Cake delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) while preparing the cake batter. Sauté the pineapple and brown sugar in a skillet before pouring the batter over them. This ensures the fruit caramelizes beautifully, giving a rich flavor to your cake.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the pineapple for peaches or cherries for a different fruity twist. Add coconut or chopped nuts for extra crunch, enhancing texture and flavor complexity. Remember, baking is an art, so don’t hesitate to express yourself!
Storing & Reheating
To store your Pineapple Upside-Down Cake, cover it with plastic wrap and keep it in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, place slices in the microwave for about 30 seconds or warm them in an oven set at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
- This professional-quality Pineapple Upside-Down Cake relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth
- Tip let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly
The first time I made this cake, my friends declared it “the best dessert ever.” They insisted on seconds—who knew a simple recipe could create such joy?
FAQ
What is the ideal baking time for Pineapple Upside-Down Cake?
For best results, bake your Pineapple Upside-Down Cake for 35 to 40 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Keep an eye on it; when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, it’s time to take it out of the oven.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple will add a deliciously vibrant flavor to your cake. Just be sure to cut it into small pieces and sauté them well with sugar before adding your batter.
How can I prevent my cake from sticking to the pan?
To avoid sticky situations, ensure you grease your pan thoroughly with butter or cooking spray before adding fruit and batter. You can also dust the pan lightly with flour after greasing it.
Is there a way to make this cake healthier?
Yes! You can substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or use less sugar by incorporating mashed bananas or applesauce into your batter while still keeping that sweet flavor intact.
Conclusion for Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
In conclusion, mastering this Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is a delightful journey through flavors and textures that anyone can enjoy. By following these tips on preparation techniques and storage methods, you’ll create a stunning dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. So gather your ingredients and get ready to impress friends and family with this classic treat!

Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 slices 1x
Description
Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is a classic dessert that brings together the tropical sweetness of pineapple and a moist, buttery cake base. This visually stunning treat features caramelized pineapple and cherries, making it an impressive centerpiece for any gathering. Perfect for sharing at celebrations or enjoying with family, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees delicious results that will leave everyone wanting more.
Ingredients
- 1 can (20 oz) canned pineapple rings in juice
- 10 maraschino cherries
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and sprinkle brown sugar evenly on the bottom.
- Arrange the pineapple rings on top of the brown sugar and place a cherry in the center of each ring.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder. Gradually add this to the wet mixture alternating with milk until just combined.
- Pour the batter over the arranged pineapples and bake for about 40 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before flipping onto a serving plate.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
