Irresistible Pineapple Upside Down Cake Recipe Delight

Name: Pineapple Upside Down Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 can (20 oz) canned pineapple slices in juice; 3/4 cup dark brown sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 tsp baking powder; 2 large eggs (room temperature); 1/2 cup whole milk; 2 tsp pure vanilla extract

Recipe By:

Daniel Lawson

Posted:

January 4, 2026

Updated:

January 4, 2026

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The moment you smell the sweet, caramelized pineapple mingling with the warm vanilla cake filling the air, you know you’re in for a treat. This pineapple upside down cake recipe isn’t just a dessert; it’s a slice of nostalgia, a sprinkle of joy, and a reminder that sometimes, life can be turned upside down—and that’s perfectly okay.

Picture this: you’re at a family gathering, and as the cake is revealed, everyone gasps in delight. The golden pineapple rings glisten seductively atop the fluffy cake, promising a flavor explosion that’ll make your taste buds dance. With each bite, you’re not just tasting sugar and butter; you’re savoring laughter-filled memories and the warmth of togetherness.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This delightful pineapple upside down cake recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels

Its tropical flavor profile will transport you to a sunny beach with every bite
The stunning visual appeal guarantees it will be the star of any dessert table

Versatile enough for any occasion, from birthdays to potlucks!

I remember the first time I baked this cake. My friends were over for game night, and when I pulled it out of the oven, their eyes lit up like kids on Christmas morning. The compliments rolled in faster than we could eat!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Canned Pineapple Slices: Use the ones packed in juice for maximum sweetness without extra syrupy mess.
Brown Sugar: Opt for dark brown sugar to enhance that rich caramel flavor on top.
Unsalted Butter: Make sure it’s softened for easy blending into your batter.

Granulated Sugar: Standard white sugar works well to balance out the richness of the butter.
All-Purpose Flour: Sifted flour helps achieve that light and fluffy texture everyone craves.
Baking Powder: Check expiration dates; fresh baking powder ensures your cake rises beautifully.

Eggs: Room temperature eggs blend better into your batter for an even consistency.
Milk: Whole milk adds creaminess but feel free to use any milk you prefer.
Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract gives that irresistible aroma and flavor boost.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a round cake pan with butter and sprinkle brown sugar evenly across the bottom.

Create the Pineapple Layer: Arrange canned pineapple slices over the brown sugar. You can add maraschino cherries in between if you’re feeling fancy.

Mix Your Batter: In a bowl, beat softened butter and granulated sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time and mix until smooth before incorporating milk and vanilla.

Add Dry Ingredients: Sift flour with baking powder into your wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined—don’t overmix or you’ll have a dense cake.

Pour Batter Over Pineapple Layer: Carefully spoon your batter over the arranged pineapples in the pan. Spread it evenly with a spatula to ensure uniform cooking.

Bake to Golden Perfection: Pop it into your preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. The aroma will drive everyone wild!

When it’s done baking, let it cool for about 10 minutes before flipping it onto a plate. Be brave; this is where magic happens!

Now you’re ready to serve up slices of happiness topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if you’re feeling indulgent. Enjoy every delightful bite of your homemade masterpiece!

You Must Know

This delightful pineapple upside down cake recipe is a classic treat that never fails to impress
The sweet caramelized pineapple and cherry topping creates an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen
Perfectly moist, fluffy, and bursting with flavor, this cake is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix the batter while the pan warms up for seamless preparation. Once ready, pour the batter over your beautiful pineapple and cherries, ensuring even coverage for consistent baking results.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to add shredded coconut or chopped nuts to your batter for extra texture. A splash of rum can elevate the tropical flavor, making this cake uniquely yours while still holding onto its classic charm.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For reheating, pop a slice in the microwave for about 15 seconds or warm it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for around 10 minutes.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve a perfectly caramelized topping, let the butter and sugar mixture bubble slightly before adding the fruit
Always use ripe pineapples for the sweetest flavor
Be cautious not to overmix your batter; this helps retain fluffiness and moisture

Sharing my first attempt at this pineapple upside down cake brings back such vivid memories. I served it at a family gathering, and my aunt declared it “the best thing since sliced bread.” It felt like I’d won an Olympic gold medal!

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