Pineapple Upside Down Cake Recipe: Easy & Moist

Baking a pineapple upside down cake recipe brings a slice of retro charm to your kitchen. This dessert, with its golden caramelized pineapple and vibrant maraschino cherries, is both visually stunning and delicious. Whether you’re hosting a party or craving a sweet treat, this guide offers a simple, step-by-step approach to create a moist, flavorful cake that everyone will love.

What Makes Pineapple Upside Down Cake Special?

This classic dessert stands out for its unique presentation. The pineapple slices and cherries create a glossy, caramelized topping when flipped, making it a showstopper. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, even for beginners. Have you ever wondered why this cake feels so nostalgic? Its popularity soared in the 1950s and 1960s, often gracing family tables and potlucks.

Ingredients for a Perfect Pineapple Upside Down Cake

To make this pineapple upside down cake recipe, gather these ingredients. Using room-temperature items ensures a smooth batter and even baking.

Topping Ingredients

• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ½ cup packed brown sugar
• 7–8 pineapple slices in juice (canned, drained)
• 7–8 maraschino cherries
• Optional: ¼ cup chopped pecans for extra crunch

Cake Batter Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups cake flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup sour cream, room temperature
• ¼ cup pineapple juice (from the can)

These ingredients yield a moist cake with a fluffy texture. For example, sour cream adds richness, while pineapple juice enhances the tropical flavor.

Essential Baking Tools

Before you start, ensure you have these tools on hand:

• 9-inch round cake pan (avoid springform to prevent leaks)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or electric mixer
• Spatula
• Cooling rack
• Serving plate

Using the right tools makes the process smoother. A standard cake pan ensures the caramelized topping stays intact when flipped.

Step-by-Step Pineapple Upside Down Cake Recipe

Follow these steps to create a delicious upside down cake recipe. Each step is designed for clarity, ensuring success even for first-time bakers.

Step 1: Prepare the Topping

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Pour ¼ cup melted butter into the bottom of a 9-inch round cake pan.
3. Sprinkle ½ cup brown sugar evenly over the butter.
4. Arrange 7–8 pineapple slices in a single layer. Place a maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple slice.
5. Optional: Sprinkle chopped pecans around the pineapple slices for added texture.

This creates the caramelized fruit layer that defines the cake’s look.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups cake flour, 1 tsp baking powder, ¼ tsp baking soda, and ¼ tsp salt.
2. Set aside. This step ensures even distribution of leavening agents.

Combining dry ingredients first prevents lumps in the batter.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

1. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream ½ cup room-temperature butter with ¾ cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
2. Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each.
3. Stir in 1 tsp vanilla extract.

This step builds the foundation for a fluffy cake texture.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Gradually add half the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
2. Add ½ cup sour cream and ¼ cup pineapple juice, stirring until smooth.
3. Add the remaining dry ingredients, mixing gently to avoid overworking the batter.

Alternating wet and dry ingredients keeps the batter smooth and prevents curdling.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

1. Carefully spread the cake batter over the pineapple and cherry topping, smoothing the top with a spatula.
2. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Let the cake cool in the pan on a cooling rack for 15 minutes.

The toothpick test ensures the cake is fully baked without overcooking.

Step 6: Flip and Serve

1. Run a knife around the edge of the cake to loosen it.
2. Place a serving plate over the pan and carefully flip the cake onto the plate.
3. Lift the pan to reveal the caramelized pineapple and cherries.

If any fruit sticks to the pan, gently place it back on the cake. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips for a Perfect Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Want to ensure your cake turns out flawless? Here are some expert tips:

• Blot Pineapple Slices: Pat canned pineapple slices dry with paper towels to remove excess juice, preventing a soggy topping.
• Use Room-Temperature Ingredients: This ensures a smooth batter and even baking.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to confirm 350°F for consistent results.
• Cool Slightly Before Flipping: Waiting 15 minutes prevents the cake from breaking but ensures the topping releases easily.

These tips, inspired by sources like Sally’s Baking Addiction, help avoid common mistakes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced bakers can hit snags. Here are pitfalls to watch for:

• Using a Springform Pan: The melted butter and sugar can leak, ruining the topping.
• Overbaking: Check at 40 minutes to avoid a dry cake.
• Skipping the Cooling Step: Flipping too soon can cause the cake to collapse.
• Excess Liquid: Too much pineapple juice in the topping can make it soggy.

By avoiding these, you’ll achieve a moist, beautiful cake every time.

Variations to Try

This pineapple upside down cake recipe is versatile. Try these twists to suit different tastes:

• Fresh Pineapple: Use fresh pineapple slices for a brighter flavor, but ensure they’re thinly sliced (about ¼ inch).
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute cake flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for a delicious dietary-friendly version.
• Vegan Adaptation: Replace butter with vegan margarine, eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water per egg), and sour cream with coconut yogurt.
• Other Fruits: Swap pineapple for peaches or apples for a unique twist.
• Mini Cakes: Use muffin tins for individual servings, baking for 20–25 minutes.

These variations cater to dietary needs or add a fun spin for gatherings.

Storing and Making Ahead

Wondering how to keep your cake fresh? Follow these storage tips:

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container or cover with plastic wrap for up to 1 day.
• Refrigerator: Keep refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the microwave for 15–20 seconds to restore warmth.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the topping and batter a day ahead, refrigerate separately, then assemble and bake fresh.

These methods ensure your cake stays delicious for longer.

Serving Suggestions

This cake shines on its own but pairs beautifully with extras:

• Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creamy contrast.
• Add a dollop of whipped cream for a lighter touch.
• Pair with coffee or tea for a cozy brunch or dessert.
• Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color.

These ideas make your cake a crowd-pleaser at holidays or parties.

The History of Pineapple Upside Down Cake

This dessert has a rich history. It gained fame in the early 20th century, thanks to canned pineapple becoming widely available. By the 1950s, it was a staple at American dinner parties, often featured in cookbooks like Betty Crocker. Its retro charm endures, making it a timeless choice for modern bakers.

Why This Recipe Works

This pineapple upside down cake recipe balances simplicity and flavor. The brown sugar and melted butter create a caramelized topping that’s sweet but not overpowering. Sour cream and pineapple juice ensure a moist cake, while the cherries add a vibrant touch. Backed by techniques from trusted sources like RecipeTin Eats, this recipe is reliable and beginner-friendly.

Nutritional Information

For health-conscious readers, here’s a rough estimate per serving (based on 8 slices):

• Calories: ~350 kcal
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Protein: 4g

Values vary based on ingredients and portion size. For precise data, use a nutritional calculator with your exact brands.

FAQs About Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Here are answers to common questions:

• Can I use fresh pineapple? Yes, slice it thinly and blot excess juice to avoid a soggy topping.
• How do I prevent the cake from sticking? Grease the pan lightly and cool for 15 minutes before flipping.
• Is this recipe gluten-free? Not by default, but swap cake flour for a gluten-free blend.
• Can I make it vegan? Use vegan butter, flax eggs, and coconut yogurt as substitutes.
• How long does it take to bake? About 40–45 minutes at 350°F, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

These answers address user queries, boosting SEO and engagement.

Conclusion: Bake and Enjoy!

This pineapple upside down cake recipe is a delightful blend of nostalgia and ease. With its caramelized fruit, moist cake, and vibrant cherries, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned baker, this guide ensures success. Try this recipe today and share your thoughts below—did you add a unique twist? Happy baking!