Pineapple upside down cake with box cake is the ultimate sweet and tangy delight! Imagine a buttery, caramelized topping of juicy pineapples and cherries nestled atop a moist, fluffy cake. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, making it hard to resist sneaking a slice before it even cools.
This nostalgic dessert makes an appearance at family gatherings and summer barbecues, bringing smiles and sweet memories. It’s perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to just an ordinary Tuesday when you need a little pick-me-up. Brace yourself for the flavor explosion that awaits!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This pineapple upside down cake with box cake is incredibly easy to prepare, perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers
- The vibrant colors of caramelized pineapples and cherries create an eye-catching centerpiece on any table
- With its delightful balance of sweetness and tang, this dessert is sure to please everyone
- You can adapt this recipe with different fruits or toppings based on your mood or pantry!
I remember the first time I made this pineapple upside down cake with box cake for my family. The look on their faces was priceless—pure joy as they savored each bite!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boxed Yellow Cake Mix: This is the shortcut that makes preparation quick and easy without sacrificing taste.
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Canned Pineapple Rings: Choose high-quality pineapple rings for the best flavor; they add a juicy sweetness.
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Maraschino Cherries: These little gems provide a pop of color and sweetness, perfectly balancing the tangy pineapple.
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Butter: Use unsalted butter for the topping; it enhances the richness of the caramelization process.
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Brown Sugar: This adds a deep caramel flavor that pairs beautifully with the pineapples.
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Eggs: Follow the box instructions for adding eggs; they help bind everything together perfectly.
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Water or Milk: Use whichever liquid you prefer per box instructions; milk creates a richer flavor in the cake.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a round baking pan with butter or nonstick spray to ensure your cake releases easily.
Create the Topping: In your prepared pan, melt about 1/2 cup of butter over low heat. Sprinkle brown sugar evenly over melted butter until combined into a paste-like consistency.
Add Pineapples and Cherries: Arrange canned pineapple rings over the brown sugar mixture in a single layer. Place maraschino cherries in the center of each ring—because who doesn’t love a cherry on top?
Mix Your Cake Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine boxed yellow cake mix, eggs, and water (or milk). Mix until smooth—about two minutes should do it!
Pour Batter Over Topping: Carefully pour the batter over your beautiful topping creation in the pan. Smooth it out gently with a spatula to ensure even baking.
Bake Away!: Place your pan in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. The smell will be absolutely heavenly!
After baking, let it cool slightly before flipping it onto a serving platter. Revel in those ooey-gooey caramelized fruits as they cascade down like edible jewels!
Now you’re ready to serve up slices of this delightful pineapple upside down cake with box cake! Enjoy every bite while reminiscing about those sweet memories we all cherish during gatherings around food.
Key Tips for a Delicious Pineapple Upside Down Cake
- Baking this pineapple upside down cake with box cake is easier than you think!
- Here are some key tips to help you elevate your dessert game
- From ingredient temperature to baking techniques, these insights will ensure perfect results every time!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare the pan by melting butter and adding brown sugar before placing the pineapple and cherries, creating a sweet foundation for your cake. Mix the box cake batter separately while the oven warms up.
Add Your Touch
Consider adding crushed nuts or coconut flakes into the batter for extra texture. You can also swap out the box cake flavor for something like vanilla or butter pecan to enhance the tropical vibes!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To reheat, pop individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. Enjoy warm for that fresh-baked taste!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When preparing your pineapple upside down cake with box cake, use room temperature ingredients for better blending
- Avoid over-mixing the batter to keep it light and fluffy
- Always test doneness with a toothpick before removing it from the oven
Baking this delightful treat always brings back memories of my childhood when my grandma would whip one up for family gatherings. Everyone would gather around, eagerly waiting for that moment when she flipped it over, revealing that glorious caramelized topping.
FAQ
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple adds a vibrant flavor but requires additional preparation.
What type of box cake works best?
A classic yellow or vanilla box cake complements the pineapple beautifully.
How do I prevent sticking when flipping?
Ensure your pan is well-greased and lined with parchment paper for a smooth release.
Pineapple Upside Down Cake with Box Cake
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Pineapple upside down cake made with box cake mix is a delightful treat that combines sweet, caramelized pineapples and cherries with a moist, fluffy cake. This nostalgic dessert is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to casual weeknight dinners. With its vibrant colors and irresistible aroma, it’s sure to impress everyone at the table. Easy to prepare and adaptable with various fruits or toppings, this recipe will quickly become a favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 (15.25 oz) box yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 (20 oz) can pineapple rings
- 1/2 cup maraschino cherries
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup water or milk
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a round baking pan.
- Melt butter in the prepared pan and mix with brown sugar until combined.
- Arrange pineapple rings over the sugar mixture, placing cherries in the center of each ring.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, and water/milk; mix until smooth.
- Pour the batter over the pineapple topping and smooth it out gently.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool slightly before flipping onto a serving platter.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
