There’s something about a pineapple upside-down cake that just hits the sweet spot—elegant, simple, and oh-so-delicious.
That golden, caramelized topping with tangy pineapple? Total perfection. If you’re here, you probably can’t resist the nostalgic vibes of this classic dessert. Lucky for you, Duncan Hines has you covered!
With Duncan Hines’ cake mix, whipping up a bakery-worthy pineapple upside-down cake has never been easier! Whether you’re a baking pro, a food blogger looking for your next recipe to share, or just someone ready to try something fun in the kitchen, this guide has you covered.
Now, tie on your apron and preheat that oven—when you take that first bite, you’ll know this is a cake worth baking over and over again.
Why You’ve Got to Try This Duncan Hines Pineapple Upside Down Cake
Imagine the smell of warm brown sugar and butter bubbling together in your kitchen, creating the perfect canvas for juicy slices of pineapple and glistening maraschino cherries. With Duncan Hines as your base, this cake doesn’t just taste incredible—it’s quick, accessible, and foolproof. Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Looks Amazing: The pineapple rings and cherries on top make a dessert that’s perfect for photos and will impress your friends and family.
- Tasty and Simple: Using Duncan Hines cake mix makes it easy to bake a fluffy, moist cake without the hassle.
- Always a Hit: Great for any occasion—whether it’s a fun dinner party or a Sunday brunch, this cake is sure to please.
Now that your taste buds are intrigued, here’s everything you’ll need to make this beauty.
Ingredients Needed for This Pineapple Upside Down Cake
Before you get started, gather up these ingredients. The list is simple—most of these are pantry staples or easy to find at your local grocery store:
For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 can (20 oz) pineapple slices, drained (reserve the juice)
- About 12 maraschino cherries, drained
For the Cake:
- 1 box of Duncan Hines classic yellow cake mix
- 1 cup pineapple juice (use in place of part of the water in the box instructions)
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil (per the cake mix instructions)
- 3 large eggs (per the cake mix instructions)
You can change the ingredients a bit—some people like to add crushed pecans on top for extra crunch.
Equipment Needed
The magic of this cake also lies in how little equipment is required. You’ll need:
- A 9-inch round or square cake pan
- Mixing bowls for the cake batter
- A whisk or handheld/stand mixer
- A silicone spatula (helpful for spreading batter evenly)
- A cooling rack
Pro Tip: If you’re doubling the recipe for a larger crowd, a 13×9-inch pan will work beautifully.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Duncan Hines Pineapple Upside Down Cake
Here’s how to bring this classic dessert to life, one irresistibly sweet step at a time:
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps your cake cook evenly. While the oven heats up, grease a 9-inch pan with butter or non-stick spray so the cake doesn’t stick. A well-greased pan will help give your cake a smooth, golden top when flipped.
Step 2: Create the Caramelized Topping
Melt 1/4 cup of butter in a small pan on low heat. Stir in 1/2 cup of brown sugar until it melts and becomes smooth. Pour this mixture into your greased pan and spread it evenly. Place pineapple slices on top in a nice pattern. Put a maraschino cherry in the middle of each pineapple slice for a colorful, classic look.
Step 3: Prepare the Cake Batter
Mix 1 box of Duncan Hines cake mix with 1 cup of pineapple juice (from the can of pineapple rings), 1/3 cup of vegetable oil, and 3 large eggs. Stir everything with a whisk or mixer until the batter is smooth with no lumps. The batter will be light and a bit fluffy for a soft, moist cake.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour the cake batter over the pineapple and caramel topping. Spread it out evenly in the pan with a spatula. Smooth the top gently so it bakes evenly. Put the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick in the middle comes out clean. As it bakes, your kitchen will smell sweet and delicious.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Once the cake is baked, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, grab your serving plate, place it upside down over the pan, and flip it in one quick, confident move.
Don’t worry—it’s easier than it sounds! The caramel will drizzle down, giving the cake a shiny, mouthwatering topping. Serve it warm or at room temp, and enjoy every delicious bite of this classic dessert.
Duncan Hines Pineapple Upside Down Cake Recipe
Equipment
- A 9-inch round or square cake pan
- Mixing bowls for the cake batter
- A whisk or handheld/stand mixer
- A silicone spatula (helpful for spreading batter evenly)
- A cooling rack
Ingredients
For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 can 20 oz pineapple slices, drained (reserve the juice)
- About 12 maraschino cherries drained
For the Cake:
- 1 box of Duncan Hines classic yellow cake mix
- 1 cup pineapple juice use in place of part of the water in the box instructions
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil per the cake mix instructions
- 3 large eggs per the cake mix instructions
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
- Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps your cake cook evenly. While the oven heats up, grease a 9-inch pan with butter or non-stick spray so the cake doesn’t stick. A well-greased pan will help give your cake a smooth, golden top when flipped.
Step 2: Create the Caramelized Topping
- Melt 1/4 cup of butter in a small pan on low heat. Stir in 1/2 cup of brown sugar until it melts and becomes smooth. Pour this mixture into your greased pan and spread it evenly. Place pineapple slices on top in a nice pattern. Put a maraschino cherry in the middle of each pineapple slice for a colorful, classic look.
Step 3: Prepare the Cake Batter
- Mix 1 box of Duncan Hines cake mix with 1 cup of pineapple juice (from the can of pineapple rings), 1/3 cup of vegetable oil, and 3 large eggs. Stir everything with a whisk or mixer until the batter is smooth with no lumps. The batter will be light and a bit fluffy for a soft, moist cake.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
- Pour the cake batter over the pineapple and caramel topping. Spread it out evenly in the pan with a spatula. Smooth the top gently so it bakes evenly. Put the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick in the middle comes out clean. As it bakes, your kitchen will smell sweet and delicious.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
- Once the cake is baked, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, grab your serving plate, place it upside down over the pan, and flip it in one quick, confident move.
Notes
Pro Tips for a Perfect Pineapple Upside Down Cake
If you want to take your cake to the next level, here are some helpful hints from experienced bakers:
- Use fresh pineapple: Fresh pineapple makes the cake tastier and juicier than canned.
- Don’t skimp on butter and sugar: Use plenty of butter and brown sugar for a rich, gooey caramel topping.
- Line the pan: Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and make flipping the cake easier.
- Cool before flipping: Let the cake cool for 5 minutes so the caramel sets but stays soft.
- Get creative: Arrange pineapple and cherries in fun patterns for a pretty design.
- Check doneness: Use a toothpick to make sure the cake is fully baked before taking it out of the oven.
Follow these tips to achieve an irresistible pineapple upside-down cake that will wow everyone!
And there you have it—a delicious Duncan Hines pineapple upside-down cake that will wow everyone at the table. Now get out there and bake up some sweet memories.
Conclusion
Baking isn’t just about making food—it’s about sharing love and creating special moments. A pineapple upside-down cake can be more than dessert; it can bring people together.
With these simple tips and your own twist, you can make a treat everyone will enjoy. Grab your ingredients, start baking, and make today special. Happy baking!
Serving Suggestions
This cake is a show-stealer on its own, but if you’re serving a crowd or want to elevate the experience, here are some ideas to try out:
- Whipped Cream Topping: Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on each slice for a light and creamy complement to the rich caramelized pineapple.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve the cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting on top for an irresistible contrast of temperatures and flavors.
- Berry Garnish: Sprinkle fresh raspberries, blueberries, or sliced strawberries around the plate for a pop of color and a tangy twist.
- Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle a little extra caramel sauce over the top for additional indulgence.
- Coconut Flakes: Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top to enhance the tropical vibe of the cake.
No matter how you serve it, this cake promises to delight and impress your guests.
FAQ
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can make a pineapple upside-down cake a day ahead. Let it cool, cover it with plastic wrap, and store it in the fridge. Take it out and let it reach room temperature before serving.
How should I store leftovers?
Cover the cake and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. It’s delicious cold or gently reheated in the microwave for 10–15 seconds.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes! Fresh pineapple is great. Slice it thin and cook it briefly with brown sugar and butter to get that caramelized flavor.
What if I don’t have maraschino cherries?
You can substitute maraschino cherries with fresh cherries, candied cherries, or even dried cranberries for a creative twist.
