Pineapple Upside Down Bundt Cake: 10 Reasons to Love It

Name: Pineapple Upside Down Bundt Cake: 10 Reasons to Love It
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar; 1 can (20 oz) pineapple slices, drained; 1 cup maraschino cherries; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; 1 cup buttermilk; 3 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp baking soda; ½ tsp salt

October 15, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my love for pineapple upside down bundt cake! This cake is like a warm hug from your childhood, bringing back memories of family gatherings and sunny afternoons. The way the caramelized pineapple and cherries create such a stunning topping is absolutely magical! And the flavor? Wow! It’s sweet, tropical, and just downright delicious. The texture is incredibly moist, thanks to the buttermilk, and it’s so easy to slice and serve. Trust me, once you try this pineapple upside down bundt cake, you’ll be hooked! It’s not just a cake; it’s a delightful slice of nostalgia that will have everyone asking for seconds!

pineapple upside down bundt cake - detail 1

Ingredients for Pineapple Upside Down Bundt Cake

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this delicious cake, and I promise it’s worth every moment! Here’s what you’ll need:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened – This will give the cake its rich flavor and moist texture.
1 cup brown sugar – This sweetener will caramelize beautifully and create that iconic topping.
1 can (20 oz) pineapple slices, drained – Make sure to drain them well; we want all that moisture to come from the cake itself!
1 cup maraschino cherries – These add a pop of color and sweetness that balances the pineapple.
2 cups all-purpose flour – The base of our lovely cake, giving it structure.
1 ½ cups granulated sugar – This adds sweetness and helps with that fluffiness we’re after.
1 cup buttermilk – This is the secret ingredient for moistness and a slight tang!
3 large eggs – They act as the binding agent, bringing everything together.
1 tsp vanilla extract – Because who doesn’t love a hint of vanilla in their cake?
1 tsp baking powder – Helps the cake rise to perfection.
1 tsp baking soda – Works in tandem with the buttermilk for that fluffy texture.
½ tsp salt – Just a pinch to enhance all those sweet flavors.

Trust me on this, using fresh ingredients will elevate your cake to a whole new level of yumminess!

How to Prepare Pineapple Upside Down Bundt Cake

Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making this gorgeous cake! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be delighting in a slice of heaven in no time!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is super important because it ensures your cake bakes evenly and rises just right. So, go ahead and let that oven get nice and toasty while you prepare the pan!

Step 2: Prepare the Bundt Pan

In your bundt pan, melt the unsalted butter. You can do this in the microwave or on the stovetop—whatever floats your boat! Once it’s melted, sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the butter. This creates that luscious caramel layer that makes our cake so special.

Step 3: Arrange Pineapple and Cherries

Now comes the fun part! Carefully arrange the pineapple slices in the bottom of the pan. Make sure to cover the entire surface for that perfect presentation. Then, tuck the maraschino cherries in between the pineapple slices. The vibrant colors will totally make your cake shine!

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Just whisk them together until they’re well combined. This step is crucial because it ensures your leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the flour.

Step 5: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar. Whip it up until it’s fluffy and light—this can take a few minutes, but trust me, it’s worth the effort! You’re creating a beautiful base for your cake.

Step 6: Combine Wet Ingredients

Next, add in the eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Mix it all together until it’s smooth and creamy. You’ll love the aroma of vanilla wafting through your kitchen—it’s heavenly!

Step 7: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures

Now, it’s time to bring it all together! Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want our cake to stay light and fluffy!

Step 8: Pour Batter into Pan

Pour the batter over the arranged pineapple and cherries in the bundt pan. Make sure to spread it evenly so that it bakes beautifully. I like to give the pan a little shake to settle everything down nicely.

Step 9: Bake the Cake

Pop that bundt pan into the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The smell will be absolutely divine—prepare yourself for some serious cake anticipation!

Step 10: Invert and Cool

Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This is key for making sure it releases easily. After that, carefully invert it onto a serving plate. Give it a little jiggle if it seems stuck, and watch as that gorgeous topping reveals itself. Let it cool for a bit more before slicing into it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Preparation: This pineapple upside down bundt cake comes together in no time, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers.
Delicious Flavor: The combination of caramelized pineapple and cherries creates a sweet, tropical flavor that’s hard to resist!
Moist Texture: Thanks to the buttermilk and the melting butter, every slice is incredibly moist and tender.
Stunning Presentation: The beautiful arrangement of fruits on top makes it a show-stopping dessert for any occasion.
Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves a good cake, and this one is no exception! It’s sure to be a hit at gatherings and celebrations.
Versatile: You can enjoy it as is, or serve it with whipped cream or ice cream for an extra special treat!
Make-Ahead Friendly: This cake keeps well, so you can bake it ahead of time and enjoy it over several days.

Tips for Success

To make sure your pineapple upside down bundt cake turns out perfectly every time, here are some of my tried-and-true tips:

Use Fresh Pineapple: If you can, opt for fresh pineapple instead of canned. It adds a vibrant flavor and a fresher texture to your cake. Just slice it evenly for the best look!
Check Your Oven Temperature: Ovens can be tricky! Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the right temperature. This will help your cake bake evenly and rise perfectly.
Don’t Overmix: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, and we want it fluffy and tender!
Let It Cool in the Pan: Allow the cake to cool in the bundt pan for about 10 minutes before inverting. This helps prevent it from breaking apart and gives you that beautiful shape!
Experiment with Toppings: While the pineapple and cherries are classic, feel free to get creative! Add toasted coconut, nuts, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra special touch.
Storing Leftovers: If you have any leftovers (which is rare, trust me!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate it to keep it fresh longer!

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to baking the most delicious pineapple upside down bundt cake ever! Happy baking!

Variations of Pineapple Upside Down Bundt Cake

One of the best things about this pineapple upside down bundt cake is its versatility! You can easily switch things up to create different flavor profiles that everyone will love. Here are some of my favorite variations to try:

Coconut Pineapple: Add shredded coconut to the batter for a tropical twist! You can also sprinkle some on top for extra texture.
Chocolate Drizzle: Once the cake is inverted, drizzle melted chocolate over the top for a rich, decadent finish. It pairs surprisingly well with the pineapple!
Spiced Rum: Incorporate a splash of spiced rum into the batter for a fun adult version. It adds a lovely depth of flavor that’s perfect for celebrations.
Peach or Apricot: Swap out the pineapple for fresh peach or apricot slices for a seasonal take. Just be sure to caramelize the fruit first for that perfect sweetness!
Almond Extract: Instead of vanilla, try using almond extract in the batter for a nutty flavor that complements the fruit beautifully.
Mixed Berries: Add a handful of blueberries or strawberries to the top before baking for a burst of color and flavor. They’ll complement the sweetness of the pineapple perfectly!
Pineapple and Ginger: For a zesty kick, mix in some grated fresh ginger or ground ginger to the batter. It adds a wonderful warmth and spice to the cake.

These variations are not just fun to make, but they also make for delightful surprises for your family and friends! Feel free to mix and match and create your own signature version of this classic cake.

Nutritional Information

Understanding the nutritional values can help you enjoy your pineapple upside down bundt cake guilt-free! Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional content per slice (based on a yield of 12 servings):

Calories: 300
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 200mg
Carbohydrates: 40g
Sugar: 25g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 3g

This cake is a delightful treat, and while it’s indulgent, it can definitely be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. So go ahead, savor that slice of pineapple upside down bundt cake—you deserve it!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve whipped up this stunning pineapple upside down bundt cake, let’s talk about how to elevate the experience even more! Serving it just right can take this already delicious cake to new heights. Here are some of my favorite suggestions:

Whipped Cream: A classic choice! Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a lovely creaminess that perfectly complements the fruity flavors of the cake. You can even add a hint of vanilla or coconut extract to the whipped cream for a fun twist!
Vanilla Ice Cream: Imagine warm slices of cake paired with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melting on top. It’s pure bliss! The cold ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm cake, making each bite a delightful treat.
Coconut Cream: For a tropical flair, serve the cake with a dollop of coconut cream or even coconut whipped cream. The subtle coconut flavor enhances the pineapple and adds a fun twist!
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over each slice adds a rich sweetness that pairs perfectly with the caramelized fruits. It’s indulgent and oh-so-delicious!
Fresh Fruit: Serve with additional fresh pineapple, berries, or even a citrus salad on the side. The freshness of the fruit brightens up the dessert and adds a refreshing touch.
Toasted Nuts: Sprinkle some toasted pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch. The nutty flavor enhances the overall taste and adds a delightful texture contrast.

Feel free to mix and match these suggestions based on your mood or the occasion. No matter how you serve it, this pineapple upside down bundt cake is sure to impress and leave everyone wanting more!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

After you’ve enjoyed this delightful pineapple upside down bundt cake, you might be wondering how to keep those tasty leftovers fresh. No worries, I’ve got you covered!

First off, to store your cake, make sure it’s completely cooled. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. This will keep it moist and prevent it from drying out. You can keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days, or if you want it to last longer, pop it in the refrigerator where it can stay fresh for about a week.

If you find yourself with a whole bunch left over (which, let’s be honest, is a rare occurrence), you can also freeze it! Just slice the cake and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. It’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge again, simply thaw a slice in the fridge overnight or let it sit at room temperature for a couple of hours.

Now, let’s talk reheating! If you love a warm slice of cake (who doesn’t?), you can gently reheat your cake in the microwave. Just pop a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat it for about 10-15 seconds. You want it warm, but not hot enough to melt away all that deliciousness! Alternatively, you can reheat it in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the cake on a baking sheet, and warm it for about 10 minutes. This will give you that freshly baked taste again!

With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy every last crumb of your pineapple upside down bundt cake! Happy indulging!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.