Pineapple Upside Down Cake

By:

March 1, 2026

Delicious Pineapple Upside Down Cake garnished with cherries and pineapple slices.

Pineapple Upside Down Cake Recipe: A Classic Delight

There’s something enchanting about the sight of a Pineapple Upside Down Cake. As you flip it over and reveal the caramelized pineapple and vibrant cherries, it’s no wonder this cake has earned a special place at family gatherings and festive celebrations. I remember the first time I made this cake; the sweet aroma wafting through the house brought my family rushing to the kitchen. It’s a timeless dessert that marries simplicity with flair, making it ideal for any occasion—be it a small celebration or a cozy weeknight treat.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

What makes Pineapple Upside Down Cake a cherished classic? Simply put, it’s a blend of beautiful presentation and delightful flavor—all wrapped into one easy-to-make recipe. It’s perfect for surprising guests at brunch or for a simple dessert after dinner. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and uses readily available ingredients.

“I made this cake for my daughter’s birthday, and it was the highlight of the party! Everyone was raving about it!” – Felicia H.

How to Make Pineapple Upside Down Cake

This delightful cake comes together in just a few straightforward steps. With an exquisite topping of caramelized pineapple, cherries, and a moist cake base, your family will be singing its praises. Here’s a brief overview of the process:

Preheat your oven.
Prepare the pineapple topping.
Make the cake batter.
Assemble the cake.
Bake until golden.
Flip and serve.

Let’s dive deeper into the ingredient list.

Ingredients

What You’ll Need

For the Pineapple Topping:
- 565g (20 oz) canned pineapple slices in juice (not in syrup, Note 1)
- 12-18 maraschino cherries (Note 2)
- 60g (4 tbsp) unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
For the Cake:
- 1 1/2 cups flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp baking soda (or 1 tsp baking powder)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/3 cup milk (full or low-fat)
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice (reserved from the canned pineapple)
- 1/4 cup sour cream (full-fat or substitute with plain yogurt)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 115g (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened (to room temperature, Note 3)
- 3/4 cup white sugar
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature (Note 4)
- Any leftover pineapple, chopped (if desired)

Make sure to use the right type of pineapple and butter for optimal flavor!

Directions

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) or 160°C for a fan oven.
Prepare the Pineapple Topping: In a small bowl, mix melted butter and brown sugar. Pour this mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch round cake pan.
Arrange Pineapple: Lay pineapple slices over the sugar mixture and place a cherry in the center of each slice.
Make the Batter: In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, combine milk, reserved pineapple juice, sour cream, vanilla, softened butter, and white sugar. Beat until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Gradually add the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
Assemble the Cake: Carefully pour the batter over the prepared pineapple topping.
Bake: Place in the oven and bake for about 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Turning Out the Cake: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes. Carefully invert the cake onto a serving platter to reveal the gorgeous topping.

How to Serve Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Best Ways to Enjoy It

This cake is delicious on its own, but you can elevate your serving experience in a few easy ways:

Dust with powdered sugar for a charming look.
Pair with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a creamy contrast.
Serve alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.

How to Store

Storage and Reheating Tips

To keep your Pineapple Upside Down Cake fresh:

Room Temperature: Cover the cake with plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for 2-3 days.
Refrigerate: If you need to store it longer, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to a week.
Freezing: You can freeze slices wrapped in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Tips to Make

Helpful Cooking Tips

Choose Quality Ingredients: High-quality butter and fresh eggs significantly enhance the cake’s flavor.
Ensure Ingredients are at Room Temperature: This helps the batter mix more evenly for a tender cake.
Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mixing just until combined ensures a light texture.

Variations

Creative Twists

Feel free to get creative with your Pineapple Upside Down Cake by trying:

Flavored Variations: Add coconut extract or rum for a tropical twist.
Fruit Alternatives: Swap pineapple for peaches or cherries for a different flavor experience.
Healthier Options: Use whole wheat flour for added nutrition or substitute honey for sugar.

FAQs

Common Questions Answered

How long does it take to prepare this cake?
Expect about 15-20 minutes for preparation and 40-45 minutes for baking.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, fresh pineapple can be used, but ensure to caramelize it first for the best flavor.
Is it safe to store the leftovers at room temperature?
It’s best to store leftovers in the fridge to prevent spoilage, especially given the dairy content.

By following this guide, you’re well on your way to creating a stunning Pineapple Upside Down Cake that will surely impress. Enjoy baking and savoring this delightful dessert!