If there’s one treat that can instantly transport you to sunny nostalgia and pure dessert happiness, it’s Mini Pineapple Upside Down Cakes. These golden beauties are as fun as they are delicious, baked right in a muffin tin for the perfect individual serving. Imagine buttery caramel edges, juicy pineapple, and a cheerful cherry on top, all nestled over a moist vanilla cake. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply craving a retro pick-me-up, this charming recipe is guaranteed to make everyone smile.

Mini Pineapple Upside Down Cakes Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Mini Pineapple Upside Down Cakes comes from a handful of classic ingredients — each one playing a starring role. Every element is carefully chosen for its color, flavor, and the texture it brings, so don’t be tempted to skip any step. Here’s what you’ll need and why.

Unsalted Butter (for topping and batter): Creates that unmistakably rich, golden caramel base and moist cake crumb.
Brown Sugar: Melds with melted butter to form the signature syrupy topping and gorgeous caramel hue.
Pineapple Rings (canned or fresh): The star fruity layer that becomes lusciously sweet and tender when baked.
Maraschino Cherries: Offer a pop of color and a joyful touch in every bite — an absolute must for that classic look!
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cake batter and balances the dessert’s overall flavor.
Large Eggs: Add structure, richness, and extra fluff to the vanilla cake layer.
Vanilla Extract: Infuses a soft, warm aroma, rounding out the flavors beautifully.
All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of the sponge, ensuring each mini cake holds together just right.
Baking Powder: Gives the cakes their light, airy rise.
Salt: Sharpens and enhances all the other flavors, making each bite pop.
Milk: Keeps the crumb tender and the texture delightfully moist.

How to Make Mini Pineapple Upside Down Cakes

Step 1: Prepare the Muffin Tin

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease a 6-cup jumbo muffin tin. You want a non-stick surface so those beautiful pineapple tops slide right out — a little melted butter works wonders!

Step 2: Add the Buttery Caramel Layer

Spoon about 2 teaspoons of melted butter into each muffin cup, then sprinkle 1 tablespoon of brown sugar on top. Swirl or tap the tin so both blend together slightly at the bottom, creating the lush caramel base that makes these Mini Pineapple Upside Down Cakes so irresistible.

Step 3: Arrange Pineapple and Cherry

Nestle a pineapple ring gently into each prepared muffin cup, pressing lightly so it sits snugly in the buttery sugar mixture. Pop a maraschino cherry into the center of each ring. This step transforms simple fruit into a show-stopping, jewel-like crown for your cakes.

Step 4: Make the Vanilla Cake Batter

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy — this is key for a pillowy sponge. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract so everything is smooth and fragrant.

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

In a second bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add your dry ingredients to the wet mixture in batches, alternating with milk (start and finish with dry). This ensures a perfectly tender texture; don’t overmix, just blend until the batter is silky.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Spoon the finished batter evenly over each pineapple ring — fill each cup about 3/4 full so the cakes rise beautifully without overspilling. Pop the tray in the oven and bake for 22 to 25 minutes, or until golden on top and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 7: Invert and Reveal

Let the cakes cool in the pan for about 5 minutes to let the caramel set slightly. Then, carefully run a knife around the edges and invert the cakes onto a baking sheet or platter in one quick motion. The reveal of glistening pineapple and cherry is the most satisfying part!

How to Serve Mini Pineapple Upside Down Cakes

Garnishes

To make your Mini Pineapple Upside Down Cakes extra inviting, add a touch of whipped cream, a dusting of powdered sugar, or even a sprinkle of toasted coconut on top. Each adds a little flair and plays up the tropical flavors.

Side Dishes

These mini cakes pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a citrus fruit salad, or a side of sweetened Greek yogurt. Keep your accompaniments light and fresh to let the caramelized pineapple shine.

Creative Ways to Present

Try arranging the Mini Pineapple Upside Down Cakes on a tiered platter for parties, or serve each on a brightly colored plate with extra cherries on the side. For a playful twist, offer a build-your-own sundae bar with these as the base.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, store leftover cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. The pineapple keeps everything moist, and the flavors deepen overnight.

Freezing

Wrap each Mini Pineapple Upside Down Cake individually in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to three months; simply thaw at room temperature before serving to recapture that just-baked tenderness.

Reheating

For that fresh-from-the-oven experience, microwave individual cakes for 10-15 seconds or warm in a low (300°F) oven for a few minutes. This revives the caramel layer beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Absolutely! Fresh pineapple brings a bright, citrusy zing. Just be sure to slice the rings thin enough to fit comfortably in your muffin tin.

My cakes stuck to the muffin tin. How can I prevent this?

Generously greasing your pan and using non-stick spray or melted butter makes a big difference, and running a knife along the edges right after cooling helps release every cake cleanly.

Can I make these in a regular muffin tin instead of jumbo?

You sure can! Just use halved pineapple rings or tidbits to fit the smaller wells, and reduce the baking time by a few minutes so they don’t overcook.

Are Mini Pineapple Upside Down Cakes good for parties?

Yes, they’re a total hit! Their retro style and individual portions make them adorable for potlucks, birthdays, and anytime you want to wow guests without fuss.

Can I make these mini cakes dairy-free?

Of course! Swap the butter for a plant-based alternative and use your favorite non-dairy milk for a version that’s just as delicious but fits dairy-free diets.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to spread a little sunshine, these Mini Pineapple Upside Down Cakes are a must-try. There’s just nothing like the joy of unveiling a perfect mini cake, topped with glossy fruit, and sharing it with people you love. Give this recipe a try — your taste buds will thank you!

Mini Pineapple Upside Down Cakes Recipe