Pineapple Upside-Down Cake

What Makes Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Special?

Unlike traditional cakes, this one is baked upside-down, meaning the topping goes into the pan first, followed by the batter. Once baked and flipped, the caramelized pineapples become the beautiful, glistening top of the cake.

✔ Caramelized Pineapples & Cherries – Sweet and sticky pineapples with maraschino cherries create a gorgeous design.
✔ Moist & Buttery Cake – A soft, flavorful cake with hints of vanilla and brown sugar.
✔ No Frosting Needed – The caramelized fruit topping makes it naturally sweet and beautiful!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Topping:

• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 6-8 pineapple rings (canned or fresh)
• 8-10 maraschino cherries

For the Cake Batter:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup pineapple juice (from canned pineapples or fresh)
• ¼ cup milk

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Pour melted butter into a 9-inch round cake pan and sprinkle brown sugar evenly over it.
• Arrange pineapple rings in a single layer on top of the sugar mixture.
• Place maraschino cherries in the center of each pineapple ring.
• In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
• In a separate bowl, beat butter and sugar until fluffy.
• Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
• Stir in vanilla extract.
• Alternately add flour mixture and pineapple juice + milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth.
• Pour the batter gently over the pineapple topping, spreading evenly.
• Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
• Place a serving plate over the cake pan.
• Carefully flip the pan upside-down and let the cake release naturally.
• Let it cool slightly before serving.

Tips for the Best Pineapple Upside-Down Cake

Use fresh pineapple juice – It enhances the flavor more than canned juice.
Use whole maraschino cherries – They add a beautiful contrast of color and sweetness.
Don’t rush the flip! – Let the cake rest for 10 minutes before flipping to avoid breaking. 

Pineapple upside-down cake is an easy yet stunning dessert that combines fruity sweetness with a soft, buttery cake. Whether it’s a weekend treat or a party centerpiece, this classic cake is always a hit! So grab your ingredients, bake a batch, and enjoy a slice of tropical goodness!