Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is a timeless dessert that never goes out of style. As a professional chef, I love how it combines caramelized pineapple, a buttery cake base, and a rich, golden topping. It’s sweet, moist, and bursting with tropical flavor, making it a favorite for any occasion.
What makes this cake special is its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The juicy pineapple and caramelized brown sugar create a deliciously sticky topping, while the soft cake underneath is incredibly fluffy. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, even for beginners.
If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert, this Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is a must-try. It’s perfect for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or just satisfying your sweet tooth. Let’s dive into this simple yet delightful recipe!
Preparation Time, Servings, and Yield
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35–40 minutes
- Total Time: 50–55 minutes
- Servings: 8–10 slices
- Yield: One 9-inch round cake
Ingredients for Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
For the Topping:
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 7–8 pineapple slices (canned or fresh)
- 10–12 maraschino cherries
For the Cake Batter:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
How to Make Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
Prepare the Topping
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Pour melted butter into a 9-inch round cake pan and sprinkle brown sugar evenly over it.
- Arrange pineapple slices in a single layer over the brown sugar. Place a cherry in the center of each pineapple slice.
Make the Cake Batter
- In a mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk, until fully combined.
Assemble and Bake
- Carefully pour the batter over the pineapple layer, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool for 5–10 minutes, then carefully flip it onto a serving plate.
Why You Must Try Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
- Incredible Flavor – The caramelized pineapple and buttery cake create the perfect balance of sweetness.
- Moist and Soft Texture – Each bite is light, fluffy, and melts in your mouth.
- Visually Stunning – The golden pineapple slices and red cherries make this cake a centerpiece-worthy dessert.
- Easy to Make – No complicated techniques, just simple steps with delicious results.
Nutritional Information (Per Slice)
- Calories: 280–320
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 12g
- Sugar: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
Values may vary based on ingredients used.
Different Versions of Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
Want to give your Pineapple Upside-Down Cake a unique twist? Try these exciting variations:
- Coconut Pineapple Upside-Down Cake – Add ½ cup shredded coconut to the batter for a richer, tropical flavor. You can also sprinkle toasted coconut on top for an extra crunch.
- Rum-Infused Version – Mix 1 tablespoon of dark rum into the batter or brush the baked cake with a rum glaze for a deep, caramel-like flavor. It’s perfect for adult gatherings!
- Gluten-Free Variation – Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend to make it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. The texture remains light and fluffy!
- Mini Pineapple Upside-Down Cakes – Use a muffin tin instead of a cake pan to create individual servings. These are great for parties and portion control.
- Chocolate Pineapple Upside-Down Cake – Add ¼ cup cocoa powder to the batter for a decadent chocolatey twist. Chocolate and pineapple pair surprisingly well!
- Spiced Pineapple Cake – Enhance the cake with ½ teaspoon cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg to add warmth and depth to the flavor.
- Upside-Down Cupcakes – Instead of a full cake, divide the batter into cupcake liners for bite-sized treats that are easy to serve and enjoy.
No matter which version you try, each brings a unique twist while keeping the classic caramelized pineapple goodness intact. Experiment and find your favorite!
Conclusion
Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is a delicious, nostalgic dessert that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. The caramelized topping, soft cake, and vibrant flavors make it a treat everyone will love. So, gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and enjoy a slice of tropical bliss!
I’m Lily Baker, a chef who finds joy in creating delicious meals that bring people together. I love blending classic flavors with modern twists, always using fresh, high-quality ingredients. For me, cooking is more than a skill—it’s a passion, a story, and a way to share warmth and creativity with others.
