Pineapple Upside Down Cake Recipe

If you are looking for a dessert that brings a perfect blend of sweetness, a touch of tang, and a nostalgic charm, then this Pineapple Upside Down Cake Recipe is exactly what you need in your baking repertoire. This classic cake features luscious pineapple rings caramelized in butter and brown sugar, topped with vibrant maraschino cherries, all crowned by a tender, moist cake that carries hints of tropical delight with every bite. It’s a simple yet sensational treat that turns any ordinary day into a celebration of flavors and memories.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Pineapple Upside Down Cake Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that come together to create magic. Each component plays a critical role in achieving the cake’s distinct taste, appealing texture, and inviting color.

• Unsalted butter (⅓ cup melted + ½ cup room temperature): Provides richness and moisture, essential for that luscious caramel topping and tender crumb.
• Brown sugar (½ cup): Adds deep caramel notes and creates the signature gooey topping that’s simply irresistible.
• Sliced pineapple (20 ounces, drained): Brings tropical sweetness and juiciness, and the rings lend the cake its iconic look.
• Maraschino cherries (13, stems removed): Inject bursts of color and a sweet, bright contrast to the pineapple.
• All-purpose flour (1½ cups): The cake’s foundation, giving structure while keeping the texture soft.
• Baking powder (1½ teaspoons): Ensures the cake rises just enough to be fluffy but not too airy.
• Kosher salt (¼ teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors, balancing sweetness beautifully.
• Granulated sugar (¾ cup): Sweetens the cake batter for the ideal sweet balance.
• Large eggs (2, room temperature): Bind the batter and contribute to the cake’s light texture.
• Sour cream (¼ cup, room temperature): Adds moisture and a slight tang that complements the pineapple’s natural acidity.
• Reserved pineapple juice (¼ cup): Intensifies the pineapple flavor within the cake itself.
• Pure vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds warmth and depth to the batter, making every bite comforting.

How to Make Pineapple Upside Down Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F, setting the stage for perfect baking. Next, pour the melted butter into a 9-inch round cake pan and spread it out evenly using a pastry brush or a folded paper towel to ensure every corner is coated. This layer will meld beautifully with the brown sugar to form the cake’s iconic caramelized topping.

Step 2: Create the Topping

Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the melted butter, creating a sweet caramel base. Arrange the drained pineapple slices over this sugary butter layer, making sure each ring lies flat. Pop a maraschino cherry into the center of each pineapple ring. This not only looks stunning but gives every slice a pop of color and an extra sweet juicy bite.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and kosher salt in a large bowl. This mixture will ensure even distribution of leavening agents for a perfectly lifted cake and balance the sweetness of the topping.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the room temperature butter and granulated sugar until the texture turns light and fluffy, usually about 2 minutes. This process incorporates air into the batter, key for a tender crumb.

Step 5: Add Eggs

Beat in the eggs one at a time, fully combining each before adding the next. Don’t forget to scrape down the bowl periodically to ensure everything is mixed evenly for a smooth batter.

Step 6: Mix Wet Ingredients

Add the sour cream, reserved pineapple juice, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. These ingredients add moisture and a nuanced tropical flavor that makes the cake stand out.

Step 7: Combine the Batter

Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender and avoid a dense texture.

Step 8: Bake the Cake

Gently pour the batter over the pineapple and cherry arrangement, spreading it out evenly. Bake the cake for 30 minutes uncovered, then cover loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning and bake for an additional 15 minutes until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool and Invert

Allow the cake to cool on a wire rack for 15-20 minutes so the caramel can set slightly. Carefully run a knife around the cake’s edges, then invert onto your serving plate to reveal the glossy pineapple topping in all its glory.

How to Serve Pineapple Upside Down Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Serving this cake with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream is heavenly. You can also sprinkle toasted coconut flakes or chopped toasted pecans for texture and an added tropical crunch that pairs brilliantly with the rich topping.

Side Dishes

For a balanced dessert experience, pair your Pineapple Upside Down Cake with fresh fruit salads featuring berries or citrus segments. A light cup of tea or a tropical cocktail like a piña colada complements the cake’s sweet tang perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Try making individual mini cakes in ramekins for a personalized touch at dinner parties. Or use the classic Pineapple Upside Down Cake Recipe batter to create cupcakes topped with the caramelized pineapples and cherries. It makes for a fun, bite-sized twist on a beloved favorite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover cake covered tightly at room temperature for up to two days. If your kitchen is warm, it’s safer to refrigerate it, wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container, to keep it moist and prevent it from drying out.

Freezing

This cake freezes beautifully. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to protect against freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

Warm slices gently in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in a low oven (around 300°F) for 10 minutes to revive that fresh-from-the-oven softness and caramel warmth. Pair with ice cream for an extra special treat.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Absolutely! Fresh pineapple can be sliced into rings and will offer a brighter flavor, but make sure to drain excess juice thoroughly to avoid making the topping too watery.

What can I substitute for sour cream?

You can use plain Greek yogurt or buttermilk as a substitute. Both provide similar moisture and tanginess, though the texture may vary slightly.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum for best results. The cake’s texture might be a bit different but still delicious.

Why is the cake batter poured over the fruit topping?

This unique method allows the caramelized fruit to create the classic “upside down” effect once the cake is inverted, ensuring that the fruit remains beautifully arranged and infused with buttery caramel.

How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?

Make sure to evenly coat the entire pan with melted butter and brown sugar. After baking, let the cake cool slightly before inverting, and use a sharp knife to gently loosen the edges. Using a non-stick or well-seasoned pan helps tremendously.

Final Thoughts

This Pineapple Upside Down Cake Recipe is a genuine crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for bringing sunshine to your table any time of year. Its perfectly caramelized fruit, moist cake, and nostalgic charm make it a dessert you’ll want to revisit again and again. Try it out soon, and watch as it becomes a beloved favorite in your home too!

Print