Timeless Delight: The Best Homemade Pineapple Upside Down Cake Recipe from Scratch
Welcome to a true baking classic! This vintage Pineapple Upside Down Cake has captivated hearts and taste buds for generations, remaining a beloved dessert for what feels like centuries. If you’re searching for the ultimate recipe, you’ve found it. This isn’t just *a* pineapple upside down cake; it’s the Best Pineapple Upside Down Cake you’ll ever bake, guaranteed to become a staple in your home. With just one forkful of this homemade delight, you’ll be transported back to cherished memories and simpler times. It’s one of our most exceptional cake recipes, made entirely from scratch without a cake mix, promising an unparalleled flavor and texture that your entire family will absolutely adore. This recipe yields one perfectly round, golden, and utterly irresistible pineapple upside-down cake, ideal for any occasion.
Growing up, I distinctly remember the joy of my mom making an easy pineapple upside-down cake. Her go-to method involved a boxed cake mix, baked to perfection in a classic 9×13 pan. Every time she made it, the kitchen filled with a sweet, tropical aroma, and the finished cake always looked so inviting and cheerful – a truly “sunny-happy” dessert, wouldn’t you agree? That vibrant golden top, adorned with bright red cherries, just radiated warmth and happiness.
My passion for this particular cake was rekindled a few years ago while delving into the delightful Janet Evanovich – Stephanie Plum series of books. If you haven’t discovered these gems yet, and you appreciate quirky, laugh-out-loud love stories intertwined with captivating mysteries, you are in for a treat. They offer a perfect blend of humor, romance, and suspense.
In the series, Stephanie, the feisty bounty hunter, has an undeniable sweet tooth. Her mother, knowing her daughter’s weakness, often uses the irresistible lure of a freshly baked Pineapple Upside Down Cake to entice Stephanie to come home for dinner with her parents and grandmother. This recurring motif in the books instantly brought back my own cherished memories of this classic dessert, reminding me of its universal appeal and nostalgic power.
It was precisely then that I decided it was high time to feature a truly exceptional, from-scratch version of this iconic cake on my website. My first venture into perfecting this delicious recipe from scratch dates back to 2015, and it has since become one of the most beloved recipes shared with our community.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Pineapple Upside Down Cake
What could possibly not be loved about this truly classic pineapple upside-down cake? It stands out as an absolutely amazing recipe, captivating both the eye and the palate. Imagine a cake that is incredibly soft, moist, and buttery, crowned with a shimmering layer of sticky, caramelized pineapple slices and vibrant, jewel-toned maraschino cherries. This homemade, from-scratch pineapple upside-down cake is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience that promises not to disappoint. With its gleaming pineapple and bright red cherries artfully arranged on top, doesn’t it present itself as a truly fancy, show-stopping creation? We certainly think its beautiful presentation and exquisite taste make it a highlight on any dessert table, blending elegance with home-style comfort.
The Sweet History of Pineapple Upside Down Cake
The charming upside-down pineapple cake as we know it today truly rose to prominence in the United States during the 1920s. This era marked a significant turning point in American kitchens, largely due to the widespread availability of canned pineapple rings. Before this, fresh pineapple was a luxury, difficult to access and prepare. James Dole, often referred to as the “Pineapple King,” revolutionized the industry by developing efficient canning methods in Hawaii, making pineapple accessible and affordable to households across the nation.
In an ingenious marketing move to promote the versatility of their new canned product, the Dole company held a national recipe contest. Thousands of entries poured in, showcasing various innovative uses for canned pineapple. Among these, one particular recipe captivated the judges and ultimately secured the grand prize: the pineapple upside-down cake. Submitted by a talented woman from Virginia, this winning recipe quickly spread like wildfire, published in newspapers and cookbooks nationwide. Its appealing presentation, combined with the convenience of canned ingredients and its delicious flavor, made it an instant hit, cementing its place as an American culinary icon that continues to be cherished today.
Essential Ingredients for Your Pineapple Upside Down Cake
Crafting this beautiful and flavorful cake requires a collection of basic pantry ingredients that, when combined, transform into the most delightful dessert imaginable, bursting with sweet, tangy pineapple flavor. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the readily available nature of its components.
For the complete printable recipe card with exact measurements, simply scroll down to the bottom of this blog post. There, you’ll find all the details you need to embark on this delicious baking adventure.
All-purpose flour – This is the foundation of our cake, providing structure and texture. It’s a fundamental ingredient that every kitchen should always have on hand for all your baking needs.
Baking powder – Our leavening agent, crucial for giving the cake its beautiful rise and light, airy texture. Another essential pantry staple for any baker.
Fine salt – A touch of salt is vital for balancing the sweetness and enhancing all the other flavors in the cake. While any salt will do, fine salt dissolves easily and distributes evenly throughout the batter.
Unsalted butter – We prefer unsalted butter for baking as it allows precise control over the overall salt content in the recipe. However, if salted butter is all you have, simply reduce the amount of added salt by about a quarter teaspoon to compensate. Remember, butter contributes richness and tenderness to the cake.
Granulated sugar – Provides sweetness to the cake batter, creating a delicate balance with the tartness of the pineapple. Absolutely a core pantry ingredient.
White vinegar – This ingredient might seem unusual for a cake, but it plays a key role in activating the baking powder, contributing to the cake’s light texture. If white vinegar isn’t available, apple cider vinegar works perfectly as a substitute.
Vanilla extract – The soul of many desserts, real vanilla extract adds a depth of warm, aromatic flavor. If real vanilla isn’t accessible, imitation vanilla extract will still yield a delicious result.
Eggs – Eggs bind the ingredients together, add moisture, and contribute to the cake’s structure and richness. Any standard large egg will work wonderfully.
Low-fat buttermilk – Buttermilk is essential for a tender, moist crumb. Its acidity reacts with the baking powder, enhancing the cake’s rise. If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, don’t worry! For every 1 cup of buttermilk required, simply pour 1 tablespoon of white vinegar (or lemon juice) into a measuring cup, then fill the rest of the cup with regular milk to the 1-cup mark. Let it sit for 5 minutes, and you’ll have a perfect homemade buttermilk substitute.
Brown sugar – This is the magic ingredient for the caramelized topping, imparting a rich, molasses-like sweetness and a beautiful golden-brown color. I prefer light brown sugar for its balanced flavor in this tasty cake!
Brandy – Just a couple of tablespoons of brandy add a subtle depth of flavor to the caramelized topping. If you prefer to omit alcohol or don’t have brandy, apple juice is an excellent non-alcoholic substitute that still complements the pineapple beautifully.
Canned pineapple – The star of our cake! Pineapple rings are traditionally the best choice for achieving that iconic, beautiful pattern on top. Remember to save the flavorful pineapple juice for other uses, like a refreshing morning smoothie or a cocktail! Thoroughly draining the pineapple is crucial for preventing a soggy cake.
Maraschino cherries – These bright red cherries are not only visually appealing, adding a pop of color, but also contribute a unique, sweet-tart flavor to the cake. While maraschino cherries are truly the best for this classic recipe, in a pinch, you can experiment with dried or frozen cherries (thawed and patted dry) for a different twist.
How To Make The Perfect Pineapple Upside Down Cake
Creating this delightful Pineapple Upside Down Cake from scratch is a rewarding process. Follow these detailed steps to achieve a perfectly moist cake with a beautifully caramelized pineapple topping every time.
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Dry Ingredients
Begin by preheating your oven to 350° F (175° C). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature when your cake is ready to bake, promoting an even rise and proper cooking. In a medium-sized bowl, meticulously sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and fine salt. Sifting helps to aerate the flour and remove any lumps, resulting in a lighter, more tender cake crumb. Once combined, set this dry ingredient mixture aside while you prepare the wet components.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients for the Batter
In the bowl of your stand mixer, fitted with a paddle attachment, combine 12 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter with the granulated sugar, white vinegar, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Cream these ingredients together on medium speed until the mixture becomes wonderfully light, pale, and fluffy. This process, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes, incorporates air into the butter and sugar, contributing to the cake’s tender texture. Next, add the eggs one at a time, beating thoroughly after each addition. Ensure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next, which helps create a smooth, emulsified batter.
With the mixer on low speed, alternately add the dry ingredients mixture and the low-fat buttermilk to the wet ingredients in three batches. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. After each addition, gently mix until just combined. As you go, use a rubber spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl, ensuring all ingredients are fully incorporated and no dry pockets remain. Once all ingredients are added, increase the mixer speed to medium and beat the batter until it is smooth and homogeneous, typically about 3 minutes. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tough cake. Once smooth, set the batter aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Caramelized Topping
For the essential caramelized topping, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. You can do this in a small saucepan if you’re planning to bake the cake in a separate round cake pan. However, to save on dishes and streamline the process, if you’re using a cast iron skillet for baking, melt the butter directly in that skillet. The skillet method also allows the flavors to truly infuse into the pan.
Once the butter is melted, whisk in the remaining teaspoon of vanilla extract, the rich brown sugar, and the brandy (or apple juice, if substituting) until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture forms a smooth, glossy caramel sauce. This creates the sticky, sweet foundation for your pineapple and cherries.
Step 4: Arrange Pineapple and Cherries
Carefully remove the skillet from the heat. Now, artfully arrange the drained pineapple slices on the bottom of the skillet in a single, even layer. You can place a cherry in the center of each pineapple ring, or simply dot them evenly among the slices to create a beautiful, vibrant pattern that will be revealed when the cake is inverted. This aesthetic touch is part of what makes the pineapple upside-down cake so iconic.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Gently and evenly pour the prepared cake batter over the arranged pineapple rings and cherries in the skillet. Spread the batter carefully to ensure it covers all the fruit without disturbing the pattern.
Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake the cake for approximately 45-50 minutes, or until it turns a beautiful golden brown and is fully set. Baking times can vary depending on your oven, so it’s always best to keep an eye on it. To test for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready!
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the skillet for at least 30 minutes. This crucial cooling period allows the caramelized topping to set properly, preventing it from sticking when you invert the cake. After 30 minutes, place your desired serving plate upside down over the skillet. With a quick, confident flip, invert the cake onto the plate. That moment when you lift the skillet to reveal the gorgeous, glistening pineapple and cherries is pure magic – I swear I heard angels sing when I first saw its loveliness!
Loved This Recipe? Pin It for Later!
Don’t let this incredible recipe for a perfectly tender and sweet Pineapple Upside Down Cake get lost in the shuffle! Make sure to save it for future baking adventures. Pin it to your favorite dessert board or recipe collection on Pinterest before you leave. Share the love of homemade baking with your friends and family!
Expert Tips & Tricks for Baking the Best Pineapple Upside Down Cake
Achieving the perfect Pineapple Upside Down Cake is easier with a few professional tips and tricks.
- Mise en Place: Always have all your ingredients measured and ready before you begin. This culinary term, meaning “everything in its place,” ensures a smooth baking process and prevents last-minute scrambling.
- Thoroughly Drain Pineapple and Cherries: This step cannot be emphasized enough. Excess moisture from the fruit is the primary culprit behind a soggy cake. Pat them dry with paper towels after draining for optimal results.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature. This is crucial for proper emulsification when creaming butter and sugar, resulting in a smooth, well-combined batter and a finer crumb texture in the finished cake. Cold ingredients can cause the batter to curdle and affect its consistency.
- Don’t Overmix: Once you add the dry ingredients to the wet, mix only until just combined. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, leading to a tough and chewy cake rather than a tender one.
- Grease Your Pan Well: Even if using a non-stick skillet, a little extra butter or non-stick spray on the sides can ensure a clean release when inverting the cake.
- Be Patient with Cooling: Resist the urge to flip the cake too soon. The 30-minute cooling period allows the warm caramel topping to firm up slightly, ensuring it adheres beautifully to the cake and doesn’t run everywhere when inverted.
How to Properly Store Your Pineapple Upside Down Cake
To keep your homemade Pineapple Upside Down Cake fresh and delicious, proper storage is key. This cake holds up wonderfully at room temperature for about two days, especially if kept covered to prevent it from drying out. For longer-lasting freshness, or if you live in a particularly warm or humid climate, it’s best to store the cake in the refrigerator. Place it in an airtight container to protect it from odors and maintain its moisture. When refrigerated, your delightful cake will keep well for up to 5 days, allowing you to enjoy slices of its buttery, caramelized goodness over several days.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pineapple Upside Down Cake
What pan works best for this pineapple upside-down cake recipe? For the most authentic and beautiful results, it is highly recommended to use either a sturdy round cake pan or a cast-iron skillet to bake this cake. A 9 or 10-inch pan is ideal. Cast iron skillets, in particular, excel at distributing heat evenly and creating a perfectly caramelized bottom (which becomes the top!).
Why is my pineapple upside down cake soggy? A soggy cake is usually due to excess moisture. To prevent this, ensure you drain the canned pineapple rings and maraschino cherries exceptionally well before arranging them in the pan. Sometimes, even taking an extra step to gently pat them dry with paper towels can make a significant difference in preventing unwanted sogginess.
Why is it called pineapple upside down cake? The name perfectly describes its unique preparation method. The cake is baked with the pineapple slices and caramelized topping arranged at the bottom of the pan. Once baked and slightly cooled, the cake is then inverted onto a serving plate, so the fruit-laden bottom becomes the glorious, decorated top.
What does pineapple upside down cake taste like? This super moist cake boasts a rich, buttery, and incredibly tender crumb. The star, however, is the topping, which develops a deep, caramelized, and intensely sweet-tart flavor from the brown sugar, butter, and pineapple. It’s a delightful blend of sweet cake and tangy, sticky fruit.
What is the meaning of pineapple upside down cake? Essentially, it means that the cake’s decorative and flavorful fruit layer is placed at the bottom of the baking pan before the batter is poured over it. The cake is then flipped over, or inverted, before serving, revealing the beautifully arranged fruit.
What is an upside down cake? An upside-down cake is a type of cake that is prepared by placing its decorative elements, usually fruit, at the bottom of the pan, along with a caramelized or sugary topping. The cake batter is then poured over these elements. After baking, the cake is “flipped over” so that the side that was at the bottom during baking becomes the right-side-up, visually appealing top for serving.
Can you make a gluten free pineapple upside down cake? Absolutely! To adapt this recipe for a gluten-free diet, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free flour blend. Brands like Cup4Cup or Bob’s Red Mill 1-to-1 Baking Flour are excellent choices that often yield great results in cake recipes.
Can you use fresh pineapple in Pineapple Upside-Down Cake? Yes, you certainly can! While canned pineapple is traditional and convenient, fresh pineapple works beautifully. Just like with canned, ensure you drain and pat the fresh pineapple slices very well to remove any excess juice that could make the cake soggy. Fresh pineapple might offer an even brighter, tangier flavor.
How long do you let a pineapple upside-down cake sit upside down? After baking, let the cake cool in its pan for at least 30 minutes before attempting to invert it onto your serving plate. This cooling time is crucial for the caramel topping to firm up sufficiently, ensuring it adheres to the cake and releases cleanly from the pan.
Love Pineapple? Us, too! Explore More Pineapple Recipes
Pineapple is a truly versatile fruit, not only wonderful for baking sweet treats but also fantastic in savory dishes. If you’ve enjoyed this classic Pineapple Upside Down Cake, you’ll be thrilled to discover more ways to incorporate its tropical sweetness and tang into your culinary creations. Here are some more of our favorite pineapple recipes, ranging from desserts to main courses:
- Two-Ingredient Pineapple Angel Food Cake (pictured above) – An incredibly simple yet delicious dessert!
- Pineapple Upside Down Cake Martini – A grown-up twist on the classic flavor.
- Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches – Sweet and savory perfection for an easy meal.
- Ham Balls with Pineapple Sauce – A delightful appetizer or side dish.
- Pineapple Coconut Tunnel Cake – Another fantastic cake featuring tropical flavors.
- Pineapple Pretzel Fluff – A light, airy, and refreshing dessert salad.
This {from scratch} Pineapple Upside Down Cake will undoubtedly evoke sweet memories and create new ones for your family and friends. Its rich, buttery, and utterly sweet goodness is sure to make you swoon! Now that you’re equipped with all the knowledge and tips, let’s dive into the detailed recipe for this easy-to-make, show-stopping dessert!
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Print Recipe
{from scratch} Pineapple Upside Down Cake
Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups flour
- 2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon fine salt
- 1 1/3 cups unsalted butter divided
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 Tablespoon white vinegar
- 3 teaspoon vanilla divided
- 3 eggs
- 1 1/3 cup low-fat buttermilk
- 10 Tablespoons brown sugar 5/8 cup
- 2 Tablespoons brandy can sub 2 Tablespoons apple juice
- 7 slices of canned pineapple
- 1 1/2 cup stemmed maraschino cherries
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 350° F.
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In a bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. In your mixer bowl, cream together 12 Tablespoons of butter, granulated sugar, vinegar, and 2 teaspoons vanilla until fluffy. ( 3-4 minutes or so) Add each egg, one at a time to the butter mixture, beating after each addition. On low, alternately add the flour mixture and the buttermilk in 3 batches. Scraping down the sides of the bowl, as needed. Set mixer to medium and beat the batter until smooth, (about 3 minutes) Set aside.
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In a 10″ nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, melt remaining butter. Whisk in the remaining vanilla, the brown sugar and brandy, until dissolved. Remove the skillet from the heat; arrange the pineapple slices on the bottom of the skillet. Arrange the cherries among the pineapple slices, evenly.
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Gently pour in the cake batter. Bake the cake until it is golden and set, about 45-50 minutes. Test with toothpick in center. Ovens will vary.
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Let cool for 30 minutes and invert onto a serving plate.
Nutrition
This beloved recipe was originally posted on July 12, 2015. It has been meticulously updated and enhanced to improve user experience, provide more detailed instructions, and optimize for search engines, and was proudly reshared on June 28, 2022.
The original inspiration for this fantastic cake recipe came from A Spoonful of Thyme, a blog that was part of the wonderful Secret Recipe Club. Although the club is no longer active, the delicious legacy of recipes like this one continues to inspire home bakers everywhere.