Introduction
There’s something magical about flipping a cake out of its pan and revealing a glossy layer of caramelized pineapples and bright red cherries. The first time I made a Pineapple Upside-Down Cake, I felt like I had unlocked a vintage kitchen secret—one that has been loved for generations. In my story, I remember learning this recipe from a dear family friend, and even now, I recreate it with the same joy. Ella Chef tells it best: this cake is a celebration of simplicity, nostalgia, and delightful flavor, perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers.
Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour melted butter into a round cake pan and sprinkle brown sugar evenly over it.
- Arrange pineapple rings on top of the sugar mixture and place a cherry in the center of each.
- In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add butter, eggs, milk, and vanilla. Mix until a smooth batter forms.
- Pour the batter over the pineapple layer and spread evenly.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes or until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool for 5 minutes, then flip the cake carefully onto a serving plate.
Nutrition
Notes
How to Make Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
Making Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is the perfect blend of nostalgia, ease, and irresistible flavor. Begin by preparing the topping—the signature crown of caramelized fruit that makes this cake so iconic. Melt butter and spread it on the bottom of your cake pan, then sprinkle brown sugar evenly to create a sweet, syrupy base. Next, arrange pineapple rings in a circular pattern and place a maraschino cherry in the center of each ring. This not only adds color but also enhances the vintage charm of the dessert.
For the batter, mix together the dry ingredients—flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This creates the foundation of a fluffy, tender cake. Add softened butter, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract, then blend until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. The batter should be thick enough to hold its shape but soft enough to spread easily over the pineapple layer.
Once the batter is ready, gently pour it over the arranged fruit, spreading it evenly to ensure uniform baking. Place the pan in a preheated oven and bake until the cake becomes golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This usually takes about 35 to 40 minutes.
Allow the cake to rest for 5 minutes—just enough time for the caramel to settle slightly without hardening. Then comes the best part: flipping the cake. Place a serving plate on top, invert the pan, and slowly lift it away to reveal the glossy, golden pineapple topping. The aroma, the shine, and the perfectly arranged fruit make this dessert visually stunning and incredibly satisfying to serve.
Conclusion
Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is one of those timeless desserts that never loses its charm. Its simple preparation, nostalgic flavors, and beautiful presentation make it suitable for celebrations, family gatherings, or even a casual afternoon treat. As Ella Chef often says, a good dessert is more than a recipe—it’s a memory waiting to be made. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just getting started, this classic cake guarantees warm smiles and sweet moments every time. Enjoy each slice, and savor the irresistible combination of caramelized fruit and buttery cake.