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pineapple upside-down cake - featured image

Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: Easy 6-Ingredient Dessert

  • Author: Olivia
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x

Description

A nostalgic, foolproof pineapple upside-down cake made with pantry staples. This easy dessert features a caramelized brown sugar topping and juicy pineapple slices, resulting in a sticky, golden, and universally loved treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup (200g) packed brown sugar
  • 1 can (20oz) pineapple slices in heavy syrup, drained
  • 12 maraschino cherries, drained
  • 1 box (15.25oz) yellow cake mix
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) water (or reserved pineapple juice)
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a 10-inch cast iron skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the packed brown sugar and stir constantly for 3-4 minutes until it forms a smooth, dark amber syrup.
  3. Remove skillet from heat. Arrange drained pineapple slices in a single layer in the skillet, fitting them tightly. Place a maraschino cherry in the center of each ring.
  4. In a large bowl, whisk together the cake mix, eggs, water (or pineapple juice), oil, and vanilla until smooth.
  5. Pour the batter over the pineapple and spread gently to the edges.
  6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  7. Remove from oven and let cool for exactly 10 minutes.
  8. Place a large plate over the skillet and flip confidently in one motion. Lift the skillet off.
  9. Let cool for another 10 minutes before slicing and serving warm.

Notes

Do not skip the 10-minute cooling time before flipping, or the caramel will run. Ensure pineapple is drained well to prevent a soggy bottom. Room temperature ingredients help the batter mix evenly. The cake tastes even better the next day as flavors meld.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 45
  • Sodium: 350
  • Fat: 18
  • Saturated Fat: 8
  • Carbohydrates: 65
  • Fiber: 1
  • Protein: 4

Keywords: pineapple upside-down cake, easy dessert, cast iron cake, caramelized pineapple, family recipe, comfort food, box mix dessert

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Find it online: https://tableanddinner.com/pineapple-upside-down-cake-easy-6-ingredient-dessert/