Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Recipe

The Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is an irresistible classic that brings together caramelized pineapple rings, a rich buttery brown sugar topping, and a moist, tender cake all in one nostalgic dessert. This beautiful cake manages to look stunning and taste divine while using simple ingredients that create a perfect balance of sweet, tangy pineapple and light buttery cake. Every bite offers a delightful caramelized crust with juicy pineapple that will have you swooning and eager to share this with friends and family. This recipe turns an ordinary cake moment into a tropical celebration!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Nothing complicated here—just straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that work harmoniously to produce the best Pineapple Upside-Down Cake possible. Each component plays a key role, from the soft butter creating that luscious topping, to the pineapple juice lending subtle tropical notes throughout the batter.

• Unsalted butter: Key for both the luscious topping and the creamy cake texture, ensuring no overpowering saltiness.
• Brown sugar: Packed brown sugar caramelizes beautifully to give that signature glossy topping with deep sweetness.
• Fresh or canned pineapple slices: The star of the show that adds tender, juicy bursts of flavor and incredible aroma.
• Maraschino cherries (optional): Brighten the cake visually and add a pop of festive sweetness in the center of pineapple rings.
• All-purpose flour: The stable base for the cake providing structure without heaviness.
• Baking powder and baking soda: The dynamic duo that lifts the cake to perfectly light and fluffy heights.
• Salt: Just a pinch to balance sweetness and enhance flavors.
• Granulated sugar: Blended into the batter to give gentle sweetness and tender crumb.
• Large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add richness.
• Vanilla extract: A splash of warmth and fragrance that rounds out the flavor profile beautifully.
• Sour cream or plain yogurt: Adds moisture and a slight tang to maintain softness and tender crumb in the cake.
• Pineapple juice: Intensifies the tropical fruit flavor inside the cake for that unmistakable pineapple freshness.

How to Make Pineapple Upside-Down Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Topping

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready to go once your batter is assembled. Pour the melted unsalted butter into a 9-inch round cake pan, then sprinkle the packed brown sugar evenly over the butter. This mixture will melt and caramelize during baking to form the cake’s mesmerizing golden crust. Carefully arrange the pineapple slices on top of the brown sugar layer, spacing them neatly. If you like a bit of classic charm, place a maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple ring—it’s optional but truly adds a lovely pop of color and sweet flavor.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to ensure even distribution of the rising agents throughout the batter. This helps the cake to rise uniformly and maintain a soft crumb. In a larger mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—this step is crucial for a tender texture. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each to create a smooth and well-incorporated batter. Stir in the vanilla extract for that warm, inviting aroma. Next, blend in the sour cream or plain yogurt for moisture and slight tanginess, which balances the sweetness perfectly. Finally, alternate folding in the dry ingredients with the pineapple juice, beginning and ending with the flour mixture to keep the batter moist and tender without overmixing.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

With your pineapple and cherry arrangement ready and the batter mixed, carefully pour the cake batter over the fruit in the pan. Spread it evenly so the cake bakes uniformly, gently covering the pineapple but not dislodging your design. Slide the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. The aroma while baking is pure bliss—a promise of that perfect caramelized, fruity treat.

Step 4: Cool and Flip

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to rest for about 10 minutes. This brief cooling time lets the caramel set slightly but keeps the topping nice and sticky. Then, carefully run a knife around the edges of the pan to loosen the cake and invert it onto a serving plate while still warm. This is the magical moment the Pineapple Upside-Down Cake reveals its glossy, caramelized pineapple crown—truly a sight to behold before you dive into that first delectable slice.

How to Serve Pineapple Upside-Down Cake

Garnishes

A lightly dusted sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance without overpowering the rich topping. For a bit of added flair and flavor, consider a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream that melts into the warm, buttery cake, creating the ultimate combination of textures and temperatures.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit salad to balance its sweetness with refreshing natural juiciness. Alternatively, a cup of hot coffee or a fruity herbal tea complements the tropical notes beautifully, making it a perfect afternoon treat or light dessert after dinner.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this Pineapple Upside-Down Cake on a rustic wooden board for a cozy, homey vibe or on a bright, tropical-themed plate to highlight its fruity essence. For parties, slice it into small squares, adding a toothpick to each for fun grab-and-go bites. You could also top individual servings with a drizzle of caramel sauce or toasted coconut flakes for an unexpected tropical twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Pineapple Upside-Down Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Keeping it covered prevents the cake from drying out while preserving that luscious caramelized topping. If your kitchen is warm, refrigeration may be better, covered tightly to avoid absorbing other flavors.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this cake later, wrap it well in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. Properly wrapped, it will last up to two months. When ready to eat, thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-from-the-oven feeling, warm individual slices gently in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds or in a low oven (around 300°F/150°C) until just heated through. This softens the cake and reactivates the caramelized topping’s sticky sweetness beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Canned pineapple slices work just fine and come pre-juiced for easy use. Just be sure to drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the topping.

What if I don’t have sour cream?

You can substitute plain yogurt or even buttermilk to add that lovely tang and moisture to the cake batter without losing any of the texture.

How do I prevent the cake from sticking when inverting?

Ensure you thoroughly grease your pan before adding the butter and brown sugar. Running a knife around the edges after baking helps loosen it. Flipping while the cake is still warm also helps it release cleanly.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that can be replaced cup-for-cup, you can still achieve a moist and delicious Pineapple Upside-Down Cake.

Is it better to serve this cake warm or at room temperature?

Both work great! Warm slices offer a comforting, gooey texture, especially paired with ice cream, while room temperature cake allows the flavors to deepen and the topping to set perfectly.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about making and sharing a Pineapple Upside-Down Cake that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. Its combination of simple ingredients, stunning presentation, and unforgettable flavor makes it a must-try for anyone who loves classic desserts with a tropical twist. Give this recipe a go, and watch it become a joyful staple in your baking repertoire.