Pineapple Upside Down Cake Recipe with Cake Mix

There’s something magical about flipping over a cake to reveal glistening rings of caramelized pineapple and vibrant maraschino cherries. This pineapple upside-down cake recipe with cake mix is the perfect way to achieve a nostalgic dessert with minimal effort. Using a trusted Duncan Hines cake mix as the base, this recipe combines convenience with homemade charm, allowing even beginners to whip up a stunning dessert.

Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a sweet treat to enjoy with your family, this cake is guaranteed to impress. The buttery, caramelized topping paired with a moist and fluffy cake creates a flavor combination that’s timeless. Let’s dive in and bake this crowd-pleaser together!

Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Recipe with Cake Mix

Recipe by SoukaynaCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

10-12

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

320

kcal

Transform a classic dessert into a showstopper with this pineapple upside-down cake recipe with cake mix. Juicy pineapples, caramelized sugar, and a moist Duncan Hines cake mix make this dessert irresistibly easy and delightful!

Ingredients

For the topping
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1 can (20 oz) sliced pineapple in juice, drained
10–12 maraschino cherries
For the Cake
1 box Duncan Hines Classic Yellow Cake Mix
1 cup pineapple juice (reserved from the canned pineapple)
1/3 cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Pour the melted butter into a 9×13-inch baking dish, tilting the pan to evenly coat the bottom.
Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the butter.
Arrange the pineapple slices in a single layer over the brown sugar. Place a maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple ring.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the Duncan Hines Classic Yellow Cake Mix, pineapple juice, vegetable oil, and eggs.
Beat the mixture on low speed for 30 seconds, then increase to medium speed and beat for 2 minutes until the batter is smooth.
Gently pour the cake batter over the pineapple and cherries, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
Run a knife along the edges of the pan to loosen the cake.
Place a large serving plate or tray over the pan and carefully flip the cake over. Tap the bottom of the pan to release the cake, then lift it away to reveal the pineapple topping.

Notes

Use the juice from the canned pineapple for the best flavor in your cake mix.
Fresh pineapple can be substituted for canned if desired, but the caramelization may differ slightly.
The cake is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Tips for Perfect Pineapple Upside-Down Cake:

Don’t Skimp on Butter: The butter and brown sugar create the caramelized topping, so make sure to use the full amount for a rich, golden finish.
Use Room-Temperature Ingredients: This ensures even mixing and a smoother batter.
Avoid Overmixing: Overmixing the cake batter can result in a dense texture. Mix just until combined for the best results.
Cool Before Flipping: Let the cake rest for about 10 minutes after baking to prevent the topping from sticking to the pan.
Experiment with Shapes: You can bake this cake in a round pan, bundt pan, or even individual ramekins for a fun twist.

Recipe Variants:

Tropical Twist: Add shredded coconut to the topping or mix coconut extract into the batter for a tropical flavor.
Chocolate Lovers’ Version: Use a chocolate cake mix instead of yellow for a unique, decadent variation.
Boozy Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: Add a splash of rum or bourbon to the topping for an adult-friendly dessert.
Gluten-Free Alternative: Use a gluten-free cake mix for those with dietary restrictions.

FAQ:

Can I use another brand of cake mix?

Absolutely! While this pineapple upside-down cake recipe with cake mix Duncan Hines is popular, any quality yellow cake mix will work.

What if I don’t have maraschino cherries?

You can substitute fresh cherries, dried cranberries, or simply omit them if you prefer.

How can I make the cake less sweet?

Reduce the brown sugar in the topping or use unsweetened pineapple slices to adjust the sweetness.

If you loved this pineapple upside-down cake recipe with cake mix, check out our 7UP Pound Cake Recipe for another easy and zesty dessert option!

This pineapple upside-down cake recipe with cake mix is a simple yet stunning dessert that never fails to impress. By using Duncan Hines cake mix as the base, you can create a perfectly moist and flavorful cake topped with caramelized pineapple and cherries. It’s a nostalgic treat that’s perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or just because. So why wait? Grab your ingredients and get baking—you’re in for a sweet, tropical delight!