Pineapple Upside Down Cake

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Sweet, buttery, and topped with caramelized pineapple rings, this Pineapple Upside Down Cake brings a cheerful retro charm to any table. From the moment it emerges golden and glossy from the pan, it’s a showstopper. With a tender crumb and vibrant tropical flavor, it has just the right balance of sweet and tangy in every slice.

This cake is not only nostalgic but surprisingly simple to make. It requires basic ingredients and a single layer of baking effort. The reward? A dessert that looks like a masterpiece and tastes like summer sunshine. Whether you’re baking for a weekend treat or a holiday gathering, this one is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Pineapple Upside Down Cake

This cake is all about contrasts: soft buttery cake meets the syrupy richness of brown sugar and pineapple. It comes together easily in one pan and doesn’t need any frosting or decoration, making it perfect for a low-effort, high-impact dessert. It also slices cleanly, serves beautifully, and keeps well, making it ideal for entertaining.

Can I Use Fresh Pineapple Instead of Canned?

Yes, fresh pineapple works well if it’s sliced thin and evenly. However, canned pineapple rings offer consistency and simplicity. They’re already the perfect size and shape, and their juice plays a key role in flavor and moisture. If using fresh, add a bit of extra sugar to balance the tartness and ensure it cooks down well.

Ingredients for the Pineapple Upside Down Cake

The ingredients are simple, pantry-friendly, and each plays a key role in texture and taste.

Pineapple rings bring a juicy tang and visual charm to the cake.

Maraschino cherries nestle into the pineapple centers, giving a burst of color and mild sweetness.

Brown sugar melts into a rich syrup that caramelizes the pineapple layer.

Unsalted butter makes the cake moist and enhances the rich caramel top.

Granulated sugar sweetens the batter without overpowering the fruit.

Eggs provide structure and richness.

All-purpose flour forms the cake’s base, creating a tender crumb.

Baking powder gives the cake a gentle lift.

Salt enhances all the flavors.

Milk smooths the batter and adds moisture.

Vanilla extract rounds out the flavor with a warm, aromatic note.

How To Make the Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Step 1: Create the Caramel Base

Melt butter and sprinkle brown sugar evenly in the bottom of a 9-inch cake pan. Arrange pineapple rings over the sugar mixture and place maraschino cherries in the center of each ring.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

In a bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk until smooth.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Pour the batter over the pineapple layer and spread evenly. Bake at 350°F for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 4: Invert and Cool

Let the cake rest for 5 minutes, then carefully invert onto a plate. Allow it to cool slightly before slicing.

Serving and Storing Your Pineapple Upside Down Cake

This recipe serves about 8 people generously, or up to 10 with smaller slices. It’s best served slightly warm or at room temperature. If making it ahead, store covered at room temp for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat slices gently in the microwave if you want to enjoy it warm.

What to Serve With Pineapple Upside Down Cake?

Vanilla Ice Cream

Its cool creaminess pairs beautifully with the warm, caramelized cake.

Whipped Cream

A dollop on top adds a cloud-like texture and mild sweetness.

Fresh Berries

Raspberries or blueberries bring a fresh burst to each bite.

Coconut Flakes

Toasted coconut brings out the tropical side.

Coffee or Espresso

A rich roast balances the sweetness of the dessert.

Rum-Infused Syrup

Drizzle lightly for a boozy depth.

Greek Yogurt

For a tangy contrast that cuts through the richness.

Want More Cake Ideas with a Twist?

If you love Pineapple Upside Down Cake, you’ll probably enjoy these other delicious desserts from Life With Zoe:

• Delightful Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake
• Butter Pecan Cheesecake
• Mama Seward’s Iconic Strawberry Cake
• Pumpkin Bread with Maple Cream Cheese Filling
• White Chocolate Orange Creamsicle Truffles

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use fresh or canned pineapple? Maybe added a splash of rum?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too — let’s help each other bake smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

Conclusion

Pineapple Upside Down Cake is one of those rare desserts that combines beauty and flavor with simplicity. With its caramelized fruit topping and soft vanilla cake, it’s as satisfying to eat as it is to serve. Whether you’re baking for a celebration or a casual weekend, this cake brings smiles every

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