If you love easy baking, this pineapple upside down cake with cake mix is your new go-to dessert. Using a box cake mix means less fuss and more flavor—perfect for busy kitchens or beginner bakers. In this article, I’ll share why this recipe is such a family favorite, guide you step by step through the process, and answer common questions like How long do I bake it? and Why does it sometimes turn out soggy? Let’s dive in and make a stunning treat that’s simple, sweet, and sure to bring smiles at any gathering!
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Why I Love This Pineapple Upside Down Cake with Cake Mix
There’s something timeless about a pineapple upside down cake with cake mix. It’s a recipe that delivers nostalgia, flavor, and simplicity—all in one golden, caramelized slice. Growing up, my mom baked it often, always using a box mix and a can of pineapple. Her secret? Letting the pineapple juice soak into the cake and flipping it while still warm. Now, in my own kitchen, this pineapple upside down cake with cake mix is still my favorite “wow” dessert that requires minimal effort.
What I love most is how the melted butter and brown sugar create a rich glaze that bubbles up around the pineapple rings and cherries. That caramel flavor sinks into every bite of the soft, fluffy cake, giving it bakery-level flavor with none of the stress. The pineapple upside down cake with cake mix is my top pick when I need a dessert that looks impressive but only takes 10 minutes to prep.
I also appreciate how flexible it is. You can use a yellow, vanilla, or even a pineapple-flavored mix, and it still turns out perfect. If you’ve enjoyed recipes from our Easy Cake Mix Desserts section, this one will feel right at home in your rotation.
For beginner bakers or busy parents, a pineapple upside down cake with cake mix hits the sweet spot between effortless and elegant. It’s proof that a store-bought shortcut can still taste homemade—and feel like a celebration every time you flip that pan over.
Pineapple Upside Down Cake with Cake Mix – So Easy
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Make this pineapple upside down cake with cake mix in under an hour! Fruity, buttery, and easy—perfect for beginners and family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 can (20 ounces) sliced pineapple
- 18 maraschino cherries
- 3 eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) yellow cake mix
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
- Pour melted butter into dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle brown sugar over butter to coat the base.
- Arrange pineapple slices on top of sugar. Place one cherry in each center.
- In a mixing bowl, combine pineapple juice (from can) and water to make 1 cup of liquid.
- Add eggs and oil to the juice, then whisk well.
- Stir in the cake mix until batter is smooth.
- Pour batter evenly over the arranged fruit in the pan.
- Bake for 45–50 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool for 10–15 minutes, then flip cake onto a serving tray. Slice and serve warm.
Notes
Pat pineapples dry before placing to prevent a soggy bottom.
Store at room temp for 2 days, or refrigerate up to 4 days.
Freeze individual slices in plastic wrap for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 373
- Sugar: 43g
- Sodium: 314mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0.3g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 51mg
Step-by-Step Instructions for Pineapple Upside Down Cake with Cake Mix
Gather Your Ingredients
To make this rich, golden pineapple upside down cake with cake mix, gather these essentials:
- 1 box yellow or vanilla cake mix
- 3 eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- Pineapple juice from a 20-oz can (add water to total 1 cup)
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 20 oz can pineapple slices
- Maraschino cherries
This is all you need for a moist and foolproof pineapple upside down cake with cake mix. Use a 9×13 baking dish and keep a whisk, bowl, and measuring cups handy.
Prepare the Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350 °F (175 °C).
- Pour the melted butter into the pan, coating the bottom.
- Sprinkle brown sugar evenly over the butter.
- Place pineapple rings across the bottom and set a cherry in each one.
That signature caramelized fruit base makes the top of this pineapple upside down cake with cake mix pop with color and flavor.
Mix and Pour the Batter
- In a large bowl, whisk the pineapple juice blend, eggs, and oil.
- Stir in the cake mix until smooth—no lumps.
- Gently pour batter over the pineapple layer, smoothing the top.
With just a few steps, your pineapple upside down cake with cake mix is ready to go into the oven.
Bake and Flip
Bake for 45–50 minutes. Check for doneness with a toothpick—when it comes out clean, you’re good to go.
Cool the cake slightly, then run a knife around the edge and flip it onto a tray. That buttery glaze and caramelized topping make this pineapple upside down cake with cake mix a real showstopper.
For more ways to remix this classic, visit our Easy Peasy Upside-Down Variations.
How to Serve Pineapple Upside Down Cake with Cake Mix
This pineapple upside down cake with cake mix is best served warm, when the buttery brown sugar glaze is still soft and glossy. The caramelized pineapple and cherries shine right after baking, making each slice look bakery-worthy without any extra decoration.
You can top each piece with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a classic dessert finish. Hosting a brunch or casual dinner? Slice the cake into neat squares and serve directly from the tray, or flip it onto a platter for a dramatic reveal.
For a relaxed twist, enjoy it at room temperature—just as flavorful and still beautifully moist. This pineapple upside down cake with cake mix is versatile enough for birthdays, cookouts, or weeknight indulgence.
Creative Ways to Make Pineapple Upside Down Cake with Cake Mix
One of the best things about using a box mix for this cake is how flexible it is. This pineapple upside down cake with cake mix can be adapted in so many ways to fit your taste, the occasion, or whatever you have on hand.
Try Individual Servings
Instead of one big cake, use a muffin pan to make individual upside-down cakes. Add a teaspoon of brown sugar, a small pineapple piece, and half a cherry to each cup, then spoon in the batter. They bake in about 20 minutes and make great treats for kids or guests.
Use a Bundt Pan
For a dramatic twist, bake your pineapple upside down cake with cake mix in a bundt pan. Carefully arrange the fruit around the bottom of the pan before adding the batter. You may need a few extra minutes of baking, but the final look is worth it.
Make It Tropical
You can change the flavor by replacing some of the pineapple juice with coconut milk. Or stir in shredded coconut for added texture. Fresh mango, banana, or even papaya chunks can add a tropical touch to this pineapple upside down cake with cake mix.
Switch Cake Mix Flavors
Try different cake mixes: lemon brings brightness, spice adds warmth, and chocolate makes a bold contrast. All work well with the pineapple and cherry topping.
Add a Veggie Boost
A surprising favorite: stir in shredded zucchini. It won’t change the flavor but makes your pineapple upside down cake with cake mix super moist—and no one will know it’s there.
Want more fun cake ideas? Browse our Quick and Easy Desserts or cozy up with a batch of our Gingerbread.
How to Store Pineapple Upside Down Cake with Cake Mix
Storing your pineapple upside down cake with cake mix correctly keeps it moist and flavorful for days. After cooling, cover the cake with foil or plastic wrap and leave it at room temperature for up to two days—ideally with the pineapple side up to preserve that glossy caramel topping.
For longer freshness—up to four days—store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. A quick zap in the microwave brings back the gooey sweetness. We use this same trick with slices of our popular Strawberry Lemonade Cake, and it works just as well here!
Want to save extras for later? Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, pop them in a freezer bag, and freeze. Thaw at room temperature or gently warm before serving. Even frozen, the fruit topping on this pineapple upside down cake with cake mix remains tender and delicious.
Looking for other desserts that store beautifully? Explore our Freezer‑Friendly Recipes collection for more make-ahead sweet ideas.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you make pineapple upside down cake with a box cake mix?
Start by melting butter in a 9×13 pan, sprinkle brown sugar, then layer canned pineapple slices and maraschino cherries. Prepare the batter by mixing eggs, vegetable oil, pineapple juice, and the cake mix. Pour it over the fruit and bake at 350°F for 45–50 minutes. Flip while still warm to reveal the caramelized topping. You can see the full steps in our step-by-step guide.
What ingredients do I need for pineapple upside down cake from cake mix?
You’ll need: 1/4 cup melted butter, 1 cup brown sugar, a 20-oz can of pineapple slices, maraschino cherries, 3 eggs, 1/2 cup vegetable oil, and one box of yellow cake mix. Optional add-ins like shredded coconut or zucchini can give your pineapple upside down cake with cake mix a fun twist.
Can I use any flavor of cake mix for pineapple upside down cake?
Yes! While yellow or vanilla cake mix is most common, you can try lemon, spice, or even chocolate cake mix. Each version offers a new take on the classic pineapple upside down cake with cake mix. Get more cake mix ideas in our Creative Cake Recipes.
How long and at what temperature do I bake pineapple upside down cake?
Bake at 350°F for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick comes out clean. If you’re making cupcakes, check at 18–22 minutes.
Why is my pineapple upside down cake soggy or mushy?
Usually, it’s caused by too much juice. Drain the pineapple slices well and pat them dry before layering. Too much liquid can throw off the texture of your pineapple upside down cake with cake mix.
Conclusion
Making a pineapple upside down cake with cake mix is one of those little wins in the kitchen—it’s quick, nostalgic, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you stick with the classic version or try one of the fun variations, this dessert proves you don’t need complicated steps or fancy ingredients to create something that feels special.
For me, it’s more than a recipe. It’s a connection to family, a memory baked into golden pineapple and warm cake. And now it’s one I hope you’ll make part of your own traditions.
If you enjoyed this one, don’t miss our Easy Sheet Pan Desserts or explore something new in the Desserts section. Happy baking!
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