Golden Pineapple Upside Down Cake That Melts in Your Mouth

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There’s something magical about a classic Pineapple Upside Down Cake: golden, caramelized pineapple slices, a buttery, tender cake, and a nostalgic vibe that instantly brings smiles. When made right, this cake isn’t just a dessert—it’s a centerpiece for family dinners, weekend brunches, or special celebrations.

Today, I’m sharing my recipe for a Golden Pineapple Upside Down Cake That Melts in Your Mouth—soft, sweet, and perfectly caramelized. This is a dessert that looks as impressive as it tastes, and it’s easier to make than you might think.

Why This Pineapple Upside Down Cake Works

  • Golden, Caramelized Pineapple: Sweet and slightly tangy pineapple slices perfectly complement the buttery cake.
  • Soft, Tender Cake: Moist, fluffy cake that literally melts in your mouth.
  • Simple Ingredients: Classic pantry ingredients with no complicated steps.
  • Crowd-Pleasing: Beautiful presentation with minimal effort—guaranteed to impress guests.

Ingredients

For the Topping

  • ¼ cup (60 g) unsalted butter
  • ½ cup (100 g) packed brown sugar
  • 1 can (20 oz / 565 g) pineapple slices in juice, drained (or 6–8 fresh pineapple rings)
  • Maraschino cherries (optional, for garnish)

For the Cake

  • 1 ½ cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ tsp baking powder
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ cup (120 ml) milk
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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Topping

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and stir in brown sugar until smooth.
  3. Pour the butter-sugar mixture into a 9-inch round cake pan, spreading evenly across the bottom.
  4. Arrange pineapple slices on top of the sugar mixture. Place a maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple ring if desired.

2. Make the Cake Batter

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
  2. In a large bowl, cream softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Beat in eggs, one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
  4. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

3. Assemble and Bake

  1. Pour the batter over the pineapple and brown sugar layer in the pan. Spread gently to cover evenly.
  2. Bake in preheated oven for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  3. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then carefully invert onto a serving plate.

Tip: Run a knife around the edges of the pan before flipping to ensure the cake releases easily.

4. Serve and Enjoy

  • Slice warm or at room temperature.
  • Optional: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.

Tips for the Perfect Upside Down Cake

  • Use fresh or canned pineapple: Either works; fresh gives extra juiciness, canned is convenient.
  • Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing makes the cake dense.
  • Caramelization matters: Ensure butter and sugar are melted and bubbly before adding pineapple for a perfect golden top.
  • Cool slightly before flipping: This prevents the topping from sticking to the pan.
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Variations to Try

  • Tropical Twist: Add shredded coconut to the cake batter.
  • Spiced Pineapple: Sprinkle cinnamon or nutmeg on the brown sugar topping.
  • Mini Cakes: Bake in muffin tins for individual servings.
  • Rum-Infused: Add 1–2 tbsp of dark rum to the brown sugar butter topping for a grown-up twist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Golden Pineapple Upside Down Cake is:

  • Buttery and soft
  • Sweet but balanced with tangy pineapple
  • Easy enough for beginners
  • A show-stopping dessert for holidays, brunches, or casual dinners

It’s a dessert that tastes as good as it looks—the golden caramelized top, the tender cake underneath, and that classic nostalgic flavor.

Final Thoughts

Making a Pineapple Upside Down Cake at home is simpler than it seems and far more satisfying than store-bought versions. With this recipe, you’ll get a moist, flavorful cake that melts in your mouth with every bite.

Serve it warm, share it with loved ones, and enjoy a little piece of dessert history right at your table.