The Ultimate Homemade Pineapple Upside Down Cake: A Classic Recipe from Scratch

There’s something truly enchanting and nostalgic about a classic homemade pineapple upside down cake. It evokes a sense of comfort, a taste of simpler times, and the sheer joy of a dessert that’s as beautiful to behold as it is delicious to eat. This particular recipe, a cherished gem unearthed from my mom’s treasured, well-worn recipe book, isn’t just any cake; it’s a golden, caramelized masterpiece. It’s renowned for being incredibly soft and wonderfully moist, crowned with a vibrant, glistening top layer that makes it an absolute showstopper every single time.

While many may claim their pineapple cake recipe is the absolute best, I genuinely believe you haven’t experienced true perfection until you’ve tried my mom’s version. Seriously, this pineapple upside down cake made entirely from scratch is a game-changer. It consistently receives rave reviews, and almost everyone who takes just one bite inevitably begs for the recipe. Its delightful balance of tender cake and sweet, juicy fruit, perfectly complemented by the rich caramel, is simply irresistible.

Honestly, even as a self-proclaimed chocoholic, I find myself craving this cake all the time! It offers the perfect harmony of soft, airy cake and succulent, flavorful fruit, all elevated by that stunning caramelized golden syrup that forms naturally during baking. It’s more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration in itself, making it an ideal choice for summer gatherings, holiday meals, or any occasion that calls for a truly special, unforgettable treat. Forget relying on store-bought mixes; this is the best homemade pineapple upside down cake without a cake mix you’ll ever bake.

Why This Homemade Pineapple Upside Down Cake Will Become Your New Favorite

Beyond its incredible taste and charming appearance, there are numerous compelling reasons why this particular pineapple upside down cake recipe stands out as a household favorite and a must-try for any baking enthusiast:

• Simple, Readily Available Ingredients: You won’t need to embark on a scavenger hunt for obscure or exotic items. This classic recipe calls for basic pantry and refrigerator staples that you likely already have on hand, making it incredibly convenient and budget-friendly to whip up anytime a craving strikes.
• Effortlessly Easy to Master: Don’t be intimidated by the cake’s impressive presentation. The baking steps are straightforward, intuitive, and easy to follow, making this a perfect recipe for both novice bakers taking their first steps and experienced home cooks looking for a reliable, delicious dessert.
• Naturally Beautiful, No Extra Decorating Needed: One of the best features of this cake is its self-decorating nature! The artful arrangement of bright pineapple rings and vibrant red maraschino cherries creates a stunning, naturally decorative topping. There’s no need for complicated frosting techniques or intricate piping skills – it’s perfect and elegant exactly as it is.
• Incredibly Versatile for Any Occasion: This foundational recipe is remarkably adaptable, allowing you to customize it for various events and serving sizes:
  • It can be easily adapted to create a gorgeous **pineapple upside down layer cake** for a more formal celebration or birthday. Simply bake multiple layers and stack them with a complementary frosting in between.
  • The recipe can be effortlessly **doubled or even tripled** to bake a large **pineapple upside down sheet cake** (a 9×13 inch pan is a popular choice). This makes it ideal for feeding a crowd, bringing to a potluck, or serving at a larger gathering or special event like a wedding.
  • For individual portions or charming party treats, divide the batter into a few smaller springform pans or even muffin tins to create delightful **mini pineapple upside down cakes**.

Expert Tips for Baking the Perfect Classic Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Achieving a wonderfully moist, flavorful, and beautifully caramelized pineapple upside down cake is simple when you follow these tried-and-true expert tips:

• Don’t Be Daunted by the Ingredient List: While the list of ingredients might appear somewhat long at first glance, rest assured that these are all common items typically found in most well-stocked kitchen pantries. The key is to have them measured out and ready before you begin, which will make the baking process incredibly smooth and enjoyable.
• Choose the Right Pan – A Springform is Best (Avoid Bundt): This specific recipe is carefully formulated for a standard 9-inch springform pan. The unique design of a springform pan, with its removable sides, allows for an incredibly easy and clean inversion of the cake, beautifully preserving the delicate fruit topping. I highly recommend against using a bundt pan for this particular recipe, as the cake’s structure and the caramel layer require a different design and baking method typically found in bundt-specific upside down cake recipes.
• Buttermilk and Greek Yogurt Are Your Moisture Secrets: These two dairy ingredients are absolutely critical to achieving this cake’s incredibly soft, tender, and moist texture. They introduce a delicate tang that perfectly balances the sweetness and ensures the cake remains fresh and delightful for days. It is crucial not to omit them or attempt to substitute them with other ingredients, as doing so will significantly impact the final texture and flavor.
• Eggs Are Essential for Structure and Richness: Through various baking experiments, I’ve learned that eggs play a vital role in the success of this cake. I once attempted an eggless version, and the results were unfortunately quite disappointing, yielding a cake with a very undesirable texture. Eggs provide crucial structure, richness, and essential moisture to the cake, so ensure they are included exactly as specified in the recipe.
• Chill for Cleaner, Neater Slices: While the cake is undeniably delicious when served warm, chilling it in the refrigerator for at least an hour (or even longer) before slicing will firm up both the cake itself and the caramelized topping. This makes it significantly easier to achieve clean, neat, and beautifully presented slices, perfect for serving guests.
• Opt for Pineapple Slices Over Crushed Pineapple: For that iconic, visually appealing presentation that defines a classic pineapple upside down cake, I strongly recommend using pineapple rings or well-drained slices. While crushed pineapple is tasty, it simply doesn’t offer the same elegant aesthetic or structured topping when the cake is inverted.
• Cast Iron Skillet Adaptability (Oven Only): If you are a fan of baking in a cast iron skillet, this recipe can certainly be adapted for it. However, it is imperative to bake the cake in the oven, not on the stovetop. The consistent, even heat of an oven is essential for proper baking and achieving that perfect, uniform caramelization.
• Rum Sauce Variation (Optional Consideration): Some pineapple upside down cake enthusiasts enjoy drizzling a rum sauce over their cake. While my family’s recipe is alcohol-free and I haven’t personally tried this variation, it’s an intriguing option for those who enjoy the flavor pairing and wish to experiment.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Here are some of the most common questions I hear from family and friends about this beloved classic cake, along with detailed answers to help you master it:

1. Who invented pineapple upside down cake? Where did pineapple upside down cake originate? When was pineapple upside down cake invented?
   The exact city or individual inventor of the pineapple upside down cake is a bit uncertain, but based on historical research, upside down cakes in general, and specifically those featuring fruit, gained significant popularity in Europe around the 1920s. These were often skillet cakes, traditionally cooked on the stovetop. They rose to prominence due to the ingenious and visually appealing technique of arranging fruit at the bottom of the pan, which then becomes a decorative topping when the cake is flipped over. Its fame skyrocketed in America, especially after the widespread introduction and affordability of canned pineapples, making this once exotic fruit readily accessible to home bakers across the country. This convenience cemented its place as a classic American dessert.
2. Pineapple upside down cake: fresh vs. canned pineapples?
   You absolutely have the option to use either fresh or canned pineapples in this recipe. However, I personally prefer and highly recommend using canned pineapple rings. They are not only readily available year-round, ensuring consistency, but also come pre-cut into uniform, perfectly shaped rings. This makes arranging them in the pan incredibly quick and easy, which is key to achieving that consistently beautiful and symmetrical topping.
3. Pineapple upside down cake: light or dark brown sugar?
   For the crucial caramelized top layer, I always opt for brown sugar. Both light and dark brown sugar will yield delicious results, but brown sugar (especially dark brown sugar) imparts a richer, deeper molasses flavor and a more complex, nuanced caramelization compared to white granulated sugar. This depth of flavor contributes significantly to the irresistible golden crust and syrupy goodness.
4. Pineapple upside down cake: hot or cold?
   Traditionally, pineapple upside down cake is served chilled. The cooling process allows the cake to fully set, making it much easier to slice neatly, and giving the flavors ample time to meld together beautifully. However, I’ve heard from many enthusiasts who enjoy it served slightly warm, perhaps with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream. When warm, the caramel and pineapple become more “ooey gooey,” offering a different, equally delightful and comforting experience. Ultimately, it truly comes down to your personal preference!
5. Does pineapple upside down cake need to be refrigerated?
   Yes, definitely! Because this cake contains fresh or canned fruits (which are perishable), it should always be refrigerated to maintain its freshness, prevent spoilage, and extend its shelf life. As an added bonus, chilling the cake also helps it to firm up, making it considerably easier to slice cleanly and elegantly.
6. How to store pineapple upside down cake? Where to store pineapple upside down cake? How long does pineapple upside down cake last?

   Once your delicious cake has cooled completely to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container. Store this container in the refrigerator, and the cake will remain fresh and delightful for up to 3 days. It is crucial not to leave it at room temperature for extended periods due to its fruit content, which can spoil quickly.
7. How to freeze pineapple upside down cake?

   To freeze your pineapple upside down cake, first ensure it is completely cool. Then, wrap the entire cake tightly in several layers of plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil or by placing it in a large freezer-safe bag or airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
8. What to cook pineapple upside down cake in?
   I cannot stress enough the importance of using a 9-inch springform pan for this recipe. Its unique design, featuring removable sides, makes it incredibly easy to release the cake cleanly and effortlessly from the pan after baking, perfectly preserving the gorgeous caramelized fruit topping without any sticking or damage.
9. How to get pineapple upside down cake out of pan? How to flip pineapple upside down cake? 

   The key to a successful flip is patience and using the right equipment (a springform pan). First, allow the cake to cool down sufficiently, ideally to room temperature or even slightly chilled. Then, gently run a thin, sharp knife around the entire perimeter of the cake to loosen it from the pan sides. Unlock the springform latch and carefully remove the side piece. Finally, place your chosen serving plate or cake stand firmly over the top of the cake, and with a confident, swift motion, flip the cake upside down onto the plate. Gently lift off the bottom of the pan to reveal your beautiful creation.
10. How to keep pineapple upside down cake from sticking?

    The secret to a non-stick cake is thorough and proper pan preparation. Make sure to generously grease the bottom and sides of your springform pan with butter or cooking spray before adding the butter-brown sugar caramel mixture. Some bakers even add a round of parchment paper cut to fit the bottom of the pan for extra assurance, though with careful greasing, it’s often not necessary.
11. What is pineapple upside down cake?
    At its heart, a pineapple upside down cake is a beautifully simple, single-layer round cake characterized by a luscious, caramelized layer of vibrant pineapple slices and bright maraschino cherries. These fruits are arranged artfully at the bottom of the baking pan before the cake batter is poured over them. Once baked, the cake is then inverted (flipped upside down), revealing this stunning fruit layer as its decorative, glossy, and utterly delicious topping.
12. How to make pineapple upside down cake from scratch?

    Making this classic cake from scratch involves a few straightforward steps: first, prepare the rich caramelized fruit topping directly in the bottom of your baking pan. Next, mix a simple, yet incredibly moist cake batter using fresh ingredients. Pour this batter gently over the arranged fruit, and then bake until golden and cooked through. The full, detailed recipe with step-by-step instructions and ingredient measurements is provided just below this section!
13. How to make pineapple upside down cake topping?

    While people have different preferences and variations exist, the classic caramelized topping, as used in my family’s time-honored recipe, is made by first melting unsalted butter directly in the bottom of the pan. This butter is then spread evenly, followed by a generous sprinkling of brown sugar over it. This combination creates a rich, buttery caramel base that infuses into the cake. Pineapple slices and maraschino cherries are then artfully arranged on top of this caramel layer for both visual appeal and delightful fruity flavor.
14. How to make pineapple upside down cake without brown sugar?

    If brown sugar isn’t available or preferred, some people use alternatives like homemade caramel sauce or corn syrup for the topping. While these can work in a pinch, I find that using liquid caramel or corn syrup can sometimes make the cake a bit too soggy or alter the classic flavor and texture profile significantly. Brown sugar offers the ideal balance for a firm, flavorful, and perfectly caramelized crust.
15. How to make pineapple upside down cake cupcakes?

    Absolutely! You can easily adapt this homemade cake recipe to create charming individual pineapple upside down cupcakes. You’ll need a standard cupcake pan, and it’s essential to skip the paper liners. Instead, generously grease and flour each cupcake cavity very thoroughly to prevent sticking. For the fruit topping, you’ll need to cut the pineapple rings into smaller, bite-sized pieces and arrange a few in the bottom of each cavity, along with a cherry or two, before spooning the cake batter over them. Adjust your baking time accordingly for these smaller portions, usually around 20-25 minutes.
16. How to serve pineapple upside down cake?

    This cake is already bursting with so much flavor and inherent beauty that it truly needs very little in the way of additional embellishment. It’s perfectly fantastic and satisfying on its own! For a little extra indulgence, you can serve it with a dollop of freshly whipped cream, a scoop of premium vanilla ice cream, or even a light sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes. While some people enjoy this pineapple upside down cake with vanilla pudding, I personally find that combination a bit unusual! But hey, to each their own – enjoy it how you like it best!

For those times when you need an even quicker option, I also have a recipe for an easy pineapple upside down cake that uses a convenient cake mix (like Duncan Hines) and crushed pineapples, perfectly adapted for a crockpot. Additionally, for dietary considerations, you can adapt a recipe using a sugar-free cake mix and fresh pineapples to create a delicious pineapple upside down cake suitable for diabetics. Technically, that method often results in a “pineapple upside down dump cake,” and I can’t wait to share that streamlined, effortless method with you in a future post!

If you’ve thoroughly enjoyed baking and tasting this classic homemade pineapple upside down cake, you might also find delight in exploring some of these other fabulous cake recipes from my collection:

Mango cake

Best banana chocolate chip cake

Upside down pear and coconut cake

Peaches and cream dip

No bake peach cheesecake

Recipe

Homemade Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Abeer Rizvi

Quick and easy homemade pineapple upside down cake recipe rom scratch. It’s soft and moist with a golden caramelized top layer. Best classic cake ever!

5 from 1 rating

Print Recipe
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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 9 slices

Calories 323 kcal

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Ingredients

  

Caramelized layer:

• ⅓ cup Butter Unsalted
• ½ cup Brown sugar

Cake:

• 1 cup Flour All-purpose
• ¾ cup Sugar
• ½ cup Buttermilk
• ⅓ cup Greek yogurt Full fat
• 23- 25 Maraschino cherries
• 8 Pineapple slices Round
• 1 Egg
• ⅛ teaspoon Salt
• 2 tablespoon Olive oil Light
• 1 tablespoon Vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon Orange extract Or orange zest
• 1 teaspoon Baking powder
• 1 teaspoon Baking soda

Instructions

 

• Place the pineapple slices on a plate lined with a couple of paper towels so as to get rid of excess pineapple juices.
• Place the cherries on a plate lined with a few paper towels too so as to get rid of excess syrup and juices.
• Melt butter in the microwave and pour it into your 9 inch springform pan. Use your fingers to spread the butter over the entire pan.
• Sprinkle brown sugar on top of the butter.
• Arrange the pineapple slices and maraschino cherries on top of the brown sugar.

Cake:

• In a mixing bowl, add egg, yogurt, buttermilk, olive oil, vanilla extract and orange extract and mix everything thoroughly.
• Add flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt and mix until just combined. You might see some lumps. Don’t worry about them and don’t over-mix!
• Gently, pour this batter on top of your arranged pineapple slices.
• Use the back of a spoon or spatula to spread the batter evenly in the pan. Be very careful not to move the pineapples or cherries.
• Bake at 350 degrees for 40-45 minutes or until an inserted toothpick in the center comes out clean.
• Let this cake cool down to room temperature. Then, remove the springform attachment and flip this cake gently onto your cake stand. Enjoy!

Video

Notes

– Read all my tips above.

– Leftover cake can be stored in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Calories: 323kcalCarbohydrates: 59gProtein: 3gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 38mgSodium: 289mgPotassium: 190mgFiber: 1gSugar: 47gVitamin A: 305IUVitamin C: 4.8mgCalcium: 87mgIron: 1.1mg

An automated tool is used to calculate the nutritional information. As such, I cannot guarantee the accuracy of the nutritional information provided for any recipe on this site.

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That’s all for today, my lovely bakers! I truly hope this deep dive into the classic homemade pineapple upside down cake inspires you to get into the kitchen and create some magic. Remember, baking is a labor of love, and this particular cake is sure to bring smiles and joy to everyone who tries it, becoming a cherished memory for years to come.

Until next time, happy baking, and tata my lovelies!