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The Ultimate Pineapple Upside Down Cake Recipe

A close-up of a slice cut from a moist pineapple upside down cake topped with caramelized pineapple rings and maraschino cherries.

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This classic pineapple upside down cake recipe guarantees a perfectly released, gloriously golden, and wonderfully moist cake with no sticking to the pan. It is an irresistible dessert that is easier than you think to make.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 (20 ounce) can pineapple slices in juice, undrained
  • 10 maraschino cherries
  • 1 box yellow cake mix (or your favorite scratch cake recipe)
  • Ingredients required by cake mix box (eggs, water, oil)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
  2. In the prepared cake pan, pour the melted butter evenly over the bottom. Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the butter.
  3. Arrange the pineapple slices on top of the brown sugar mixture. Place one maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple ring.
  4. Prepare the cake batter according to the package directions for a standard 9-inch round cake, or use your preferred scratch recipe. Do not overmix the batter.
  5. Gently spoon the cake batter over the pineapple and brown sugar layer. Spread the batter evenly without disturbing the fruit arrangement underneath.
  6. Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until a wooden pick inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking time may vary based on your oven and cake mix.
  7. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan on a wire rack for exactly 10 minutes. This cooling time is important for proper release.
  8. Place a serving plate upside down over the cake pan. Carefully and quickly invert the pan and plate together. Lift the pan off the cake. If any fruit sticks, gently replace it onto the cake.
  9. Serve warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate indulgent treat.

Notes

  • For a truly classic look, use pineapple rings and maraschino cherries.
  • If you are worried about the cake sticking, line the bottom of the pan with parchment paper before adding the butter and sugar.
  • This cake is best served warm on the day it is made.

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