I love how a simple dessert can make the day feel special. Pineapple upside down cake with cake mix is my favorite when I want something sweet without spending too much time in the kitchen. It is easy, colorful, and always makes people smile.
The caramelized pineapple and soft cake taste perfect together. Let me show you how simple it is to make this treat at home.
Ingredient Overview
Before you start baking your pineapple upside down cake with cake mix, gather your ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating a delicious and moist cake.
Cake mix – The base of your cake, providing a light and fluffy texture. Choosing a yellow or butter cake mix works best.
Pineapple slices – Adds natural sweetness and a tropical flavor that complements the caramel topping.
Maraschino cherries – Optional, but perfect for adding a pop of color and extra sweetness.
Butter – Melts into the sugar to create a rich and gooey caramel layer under the pineapple.
Brown sugar – Combines with butter for a perfectly sweet and sticky topping that will caramelize in the oven.
Eggs – Provide structure, moisture, and richness to your cake.
Milk or water – Keeps the cake tender and soft while mixing with the cake mix.
Vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor, giving your cake a warm and inviting aroma.
Gathering these ingredients in advance makes your baking process smooth and enjoyable. Everything comes together quickly, and you can focus on creating the perfect caramel and arranging your pineapple slices beautifully.
Step-by-Step Preparation
Creating a pineapple upside down cake with cake mix is straightforward if you follow each step carefully. You will find it easy to achieve a beautiful, caramelized dessert every time.
Prepare the Pan and Topping
Preheat your oven using the temperature on the cake mix box. Melt the butter and mix it with brown sugar, then pour it into a greased pan. Place the pineapple slices on top and add a cherry in the center if you want. This helps your pineapple upside down cake with cake mix turn out sweet and golden on top.
Make the Cake Batter
Prepare the cake batter by following the directions on the cake mix box. Add the eggs, milk, and vanilla, then mix until smooth. Do not mix too much, or the cake may turn heavy. A smooth batter helps your pineapple upside down cake with cake mix bake evenly and rise well.
Assemble and Bake
When the batter is ready, slowly pour it over the pineapple and caramel in the pan. Spread it gently so the pineapple stays in place. Bake your pineapple upside down cake with cake mix for the time listed on the box, usually 30 to 40 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick comes out clean. Let it cool for about 10 minutes before flipping it so the topping stays in place.
Serving
Carefully turn your pineapple upside down cake with cake mix onto a plate. The pineapple and caramel will be on top and look beautiful. Serve it warm for a soft, sticky topping or let it cool for easy slicing. It is perfect to share with family and friends, or to enjoy on your own.
Helpful Tips
Creating the perfect pineapple upside down cake with cake mix is easier when you follow a few practical tips. These suggestions will help you avoid common mistakes and ensure a delicious result every time.
- Use a non-stick or well-greased pan to prevent your pineapple upside down cake with cake mix from sticking.
- Pat pineapple slices dry before placing them on the sugar-butter layer to avoid excess moisture.
- Allow the cake to cool slightly before flipping it to prevent the caramel from spilling.
- Avoid overmixing the cake batter to keep your pineapple upside down cake with cake mix light and fluffy.
- Consider lining the pan with parchment paper if you want extra assurance that the cake will release easily.
Following these tips will help you achieve a professional-looking pineapple upside down cake with cake mix that tastes just as good as it looks.
Classic Comforts and Dreamy Desserts
- Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe: Creamy, rich, and topped with sweet strawberries
Storage Instructions
Knowing how to store your pineapple upside down cake with cake mix properly will keep it fresh and delicious for longer.
- Room temperature: Cover your cake and store it on the counter for one to two days. This keeps it moist and ready to serve.
- Refrigerator: Place the cake in an airtight container and refrigerate for three to four days. This is ideal if you want to keep it longer while maintaining freshness.
- Freezer: Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to two months. Thaw completely before serving to restore its soft texture and caramel flavor.
Proper storage ensures that every slice of your pineapple upside down cake with cake mix tastes as good as the first.
Pineapple Upside Down Cake with Cake Mix
Equipment
- 9-inch round cake pan
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Spatula
- Cooling rack
- Measuring cups
- Toothpick or cake tester
- Serving plate for flipping
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup pineapple juice from canned pineapple, or water if needed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 8 to 10 canned pineapple rings drained
- 8 to 10 maraschino cherries
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9-inch round cake pan generously with butter or nonstick spray.
- Pour melted butter evenly into the bottom of the pan.
- Sprinkle brown sugar over the melted butter to create a base layer.
- Arrange the pineapple slices on top of the sugar.
- Place one maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple ring.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cake mix, eggs, oil, and pineapple juice.
- Mix until just combined and smooth, avoiding overmixing.
- Carefully pour the batter over the arranged fruit, spreading evenly.
- Bake on the center rack for 40 to 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake rest in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Place a serving plate over the pan and flip the cake confidently to release it.
- Let cool slightly before slicing and serving warm.
Notes
FAQ
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can absolutely use fresh pineapple, but it needs to be sliced thin and patted dry to avoid extra moisture. Canned pineapple is more uniform and consistent, but fresh works well when prepared properly.
Can I use a different type of cake mix?
Definitely. A pineapple upside down cake with cake mix is versatile enough for different cake flavors. Vanilla, butter, yellow, or even spice cake mixes can all produce delicious results. Just keep an eye on bake time if using heavier mixes.
What if I don’t have maraschino cherries?
You can skip the cherries altogether or replace them with dried cranberries, raspberries, or even slices of kiwi for something more colorful. The cherries do offer a nostalgic flavor and iconic look, but you’re not limited to them.
Can this recipe be made in advance?
Yes. Making your pineapple upside down cake with cake mix the night before an event works perfectly. Just keep it covered in the fridge and warm slightly before serving. The flavors deepen as it rests.
How do I prevent the cake from sticking when flipping?
Use generous amounts of butter or nonstick spray, and let the cake rest for about 10 to 15 minutes before flipping. This gives it time to set and separate from the pan slightly, making the flip easier and cleaner.
