Say hello to the ultimate nostalgic dessert with a tropical twist Easy Pineapple Upside Down Cake! This golden, buttery cake is topped with caramelized pineapple rings and sweet maraschino cherries for a show-stopping, foolproof treat. Whether you’re baking for a summer picnic, family gathering, or just because you’ll fall in love with how simple and satisfying it is.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-bowl cake batter – minimal cleanup
Caramelized fruity topping – no frosting needed
Classic flavor, modern ease – perfect for beginners
Beautiful presentation – it flips out stunning every time

Ingredients for Easy Pineapple Upside Down Cake

– Butter – for richness and that sticky-sweet topping
– Brown sugar – to create a caramel-like glaze
– Pineapple rings (canned) – iconic flavor and shape
– Maraschino cherries – pop of color and sweetness
– Yellow cake mix – shortcut to fluffy, moist perfection
– Eggs, oil, and pineapple juice – to make the batter tender and flavorful

Suggested Measurements:

• ¼ cup (½ stick) unsalted butter
• ½ cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 can (20 oz) pineapple rings, juice reserved
• Maraschino cherries (10–12)
• 1 box yellow cake mix
• 3 large eggs
• ⅓ cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup reserved pineapple juice (or water if needed)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a 9×13-inch pan, melt the butter in the oven. Sprinkle brown sugar evenly over the melted butter.

Step 2: Arrange the Fruit
Place pineapple rings over the sugar-butter mixture. Add a maraschino cherry in the center of each ring and between them if desired.

Step 3: Mix the Cake Batter
In a large bowl, prepare the yellow cake mix according to the box instructions, but use pineapple juice instead of water for extra flavor. Add eggs and oil, and mix until smooth.

Step 4: Pour and Bake
Pour the batter gently over the arranged pineapples. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 5: Flip and Cool
Let the cake rest for 5–10 minutes after baking. Then, run a knife around the edges and carefully invert the cake onto a large serving platter. Let cool before slicing.

Prep Time:

15 minutes

Bake Time:

40–45 minutes

Total Time:

1 hour

Yield:

12 servings

Substitutions and Variations

– Use a white or butter cake mix for a different flavor
– Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter
– Swap canned pineapple with fresh slices if preferred
– Use pineapple tidbits instead of rings for a rustic look
– Try rum extract in the batter for a Caribbean twist

Extra Tips

– Make sure the cake rests for 5–10 minutes before flipping to avoid sticking
– Line the bottom of the pan with parchment paper if you’re nervous about flipping
– Don’t overmix the batter just until smooth
– Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a dreamy dessert

FAQ’s

1. Can I use fresh pineapple?
Yes! Just peel, core, and slice it thinly to match canned ring sizes.

2. What if I don’t have pineapple juice?
You can use water or orange juice, but pineapple juice adds the best flavor.

3. Can I use a different pan size?
Yes, but adjust baking time—9-inch round or bundt pan work well. Reduce batter if needed.

4. How do I prevent the cake from sticking?
Butter the pan well, don’t skip resting time, and invert while still warm.

5. Can I make it ahead?
Absolutely store covered at room temp for 1–2 days or refrigerate up to 5.

6. Can I freeze it?
Yes! Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and serve slightly warm.

7. What should I serve it with?
Vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of caramel!

8. Can I use a homemade cake batter?
Yes, if you prefer scratch cakes, substitute your favorite yellow cake recipe.

9. How do I make it more caramelized?
Use dark brown sugar or add an extra tablespoon of butter and sugar to the base.

10. Can I make this into cupcakes?
Yes! Use pineapple tidbits and bake in muffin tins just reduce the baking time.

Conclusion

This Easy Pineapple Upside Down Cake is the kind of dessert that feels like a warm hug sweet, sunny, and simple to make. With just a few pantry staples and a flip of the pan, you’ll have a show-stopping treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Don’t be surprised if it disappears in one sitting!

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