Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
Pineapple upside-down cake is a timeless classic—soft, buttery cake topped with caramelized pineapple rings and cherries, all baked together and flipped into a beautiful, glossy dessert. Sweet, moist, and nostalgic, this cake is perfect for family gatherings, celebrations, or anytime you want an easy dessert that looks as good as it tastes.
Why This Cake Is a Favorite
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Moist, tender crumb
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Sweet caramelized fruit topping
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Simple pantry ingredients
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No frosting required
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Beautiful presentation with minimal effort
The magic happens when the brown sugar and butter melt into a rich caramel that soaks into the cake as it bakes.
Ingredients
Topping
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¼ cup unsalted butter
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½ cup brown sugar, packed
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7 pineapple rings (canned or fresh)
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Maraschino cherries (optional)
Cake Batter
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1½ cups all-purpose flour
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1½ teaspoons baking powder
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¼ teaspoon salt
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½ cup unsalted butter, softened
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¾ cup granulated sugar
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2 large eggs
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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½ cup milk
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¼ cup pineapple juice (from the can)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Melt the butter and pour it into a 9-inch round cake pan. Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the butter.
Arrange pineapple rings on top of the sugar mixture. Place cherries in the centers of the rings if using. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla.
Add the dry ingredients alternately with the milk and pineapple juice, mixing just until combined.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Carefully spoon the batter over the pineapple layer and smooth the top.
Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 4: Flip the Cake
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then run a knife around the edges. Place a serving plate over the pan and carefully invert the cake. Lift the pan gently to reveal the pineapple topping.
Tips for Best Results
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Don’t let the cake cool too long before flipping or the topping may stick
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Use room-temperature ingredients for a smoother batter
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Drain pineapple slightly, but reserve the juice for the cake
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Serve warm or at room temperature
Serving Suggestions
Serve pineapple upside-down cake on its own or with:
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A dollop of whipped cream
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Vanilla ice cream
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A light dusting of powdered sugar
Storage
Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat gently if desired.
A Classic That Never Goes Out of Style
Pineapple upside-down cake is proof that simple ingredients and classic techniques never fail. With its caramelized fruit topping and soft, buttery cake, it’s a dessert that brings comfort, nostalgia, and guaranteed smiles to any table. 🍍🍰