The Bestpineapple Upside Down Cake Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This Pineapple Upside Down Cake is a timeless treat that brings a touch of sweetness and nostalgia to any occasion. You’ll fall in love with its golden caramel topping, juicy pineapple rings, and soft, fluffy cake that’s perfect for sharing. The recipe is simple to follow, with clear steps that make baking fun even for beginners. The combination of tropical pineapple and rich caramel creates a flavor that’s both comforting and exciting. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress your family and friends!
Recipe

Pineapple Upside Down Cake is a classic dessert that combines sweet caramelized pineapple rings with a moist, tender cake. This retro favorite is perfect for any occasion and is surprisingly easy to make.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 6 pineapple rings (fresh or canned)
- Maraschino cherries (optional)
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Melt 1/4 cup butter in a 9-inch round cake pan over low heat. Sprinkle brown sugar evenly over the melted butter. Arrange pineapple rings on top and place cherries in the centers if desired.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, cream 1/2 cup softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add vanilla and eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with milk, beginning and ending with flour. Mix until just combined.
- Pour the batter over the pineapple layer in the pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then invert it onto a serving plate. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes:
- Make certain the cake pan is well-greased to prevent sticking.
- Use fresh pineapple for a brighter flavor, but canned works well too.
Equipment:
2 bowls, whisk, cake pan (9-inch round), mixer
Time:
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 35-40 minutes
Cuisine:
American
Serving:
8 servings
Nutrition
This delightful Pineapple Upside Down Cake offers a blend of sweetness and nutrition. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving:
Calories | Protein | Fat | Carbs | Sugar | Fiber
—|—|—|—|—|—
290 | 3g | 10g | 48g | 35g | 1g
What To Serve With It
I love serving my pineapple upside down cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream—it melts just right over the warm cake. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll add a dollop of homemade whipped cream for extra richness. Both options make the cake even more delicious, and I bet you’ll love them too!
Ice Cream Pairings
When it comes to serving pineapple upside down cake, I’ve found that adding a scoop of ice cream can make it even more special. My go-to pairing is creamy vanilla, which complements the cake’s caramelized pineapple perfectly. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll add a few fruit toppings like fresh berries or extra pineapple chunks for a burst of flavor. A chocolate drizzle over the ice cream adds a rich, decadent touch that takes it to the next level. Trust me, this combo is a crowd-pleaser every time, and it’s super easy to pull off!
Whipped Cream Options
Whipped cream’s a classic topping for pineapple upside down cake, and there’s so much fun to be had making it your own. For flavor variations, I love adding a splash of vanilla, a hint of coconut, or even a drizzle of caramel to the cream. It’s a simple way to elevate the cake’s tropical vibe. If you’re looking for topping alternatives, try a dollop of mascarpone cream or a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes for crunch. Sometimes, I’ll even mix in a bit of citrus zest for a fresh twist. Experimenting with these ideas makes each slice feel special—and totally irresistible.