Name: Mini Pineapple Upside Down Cake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-487343H16M24S
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Butter, melted; Packed brown sugar; Pineapple rings (canned or fresh pineapple slices); Maraschino cherries; Pineapple juice (from can or fresh); All-purpose flour; Granulated sugar; Butter, softened; Baking powder; Salt; Whole milk; Egg; Vanilla extract

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Mini Pineapple Upside Down Cakes are a delightful twist on the classic upside-down cake, packed with tropical flavors and a touch of nostalgia. These mini treats are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a party, a family gathering, or just a special dessert to enjoy at home. The buttery brown sugar topping, pineapple rings, and maraschino cherries come together to create a mouthwatering individual serving that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.

Mini Pineapple Upside Down Cake Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines two of my favorite things: mini desserts and pineapple upside-down cake. The individual servings are perfectly portioned, which makes them great for gatherings or a sweet indulgence without overdoing it. The caramelized brown sugar and buttery topping melt into the pineapple, creating a deliciously sweet and tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the moist, fluffy cake. Plus, these mini cakes are incredibly easy to make and bake up quickly, making them perfect for anyone looking for a quick and impressive treat.

Ingredients

For the Topping:

Butter, melted
Packed brown sugar
Pineapple rings (canned or fresh pineapple slices)
Maraschino cherries
Pineapple juice (from can or fresh)

For the Cake:

All-purpose flour
Granulated sugar
Butter, softened
Baking powder
Salt
Whole milk
Egg
Vanilla extract

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Base and Toppings:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 12-cup muffin tin thoroughly with butter or cooking spray.
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter and brown sugar until well combined.
Divide this mixture evenly among the 12 muffin cups, spreading it to cover the bottom of each cup.
Place one pineapple ring in each muffin cup, pressing gently into the brown sugar mixture.
Add one maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple ring and drizzle a small amount of pineapple juice over each cup.
Make the Cake Batter:
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Alternately add the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the flour mixture.
Mix until just combined – avoid overmixing to keep the cakes tender.
Assemble and Bake:
Divide the cake batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about ⅔ full.
Make sure the batter covers the pineapple rings completely.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the cake portion comes out clean.
Check that the tops are golden brown before removing them from the oven.
Cool and Flip for the Big Reveal:
Let the cakes cool in the pan for exactly 5 minutes – this timing is critical for perfect removal.
Run a knife around the edges of each cake to loosen them from the pan.
Immediately invert the muffin tin onto a large serving tray or individual plates.
Tap gently and lift the pan slowly to reveal your beautiful mini pineapple upside down cakes.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 12 mini cakes, with a total baking time of about 20-25 minutes. Allow 5 minutes of cooling time before flipping for the perfect presentation. The whole process is quick and easy, taking around 40 minutes from start to finish.

Variations

Gluten-Free Version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
Dairy-Free Option: Swap butter for coconut oil and use plant-based milk instead of whole milk.
Fresh Pineapple: While canned pineapple rings are convenient, fresh pineapple slices can be used for an even fresher, more vibrant taste.
Flavor Twist: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake batter for extra warmth and spice.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover mini pineapple upside-down cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 5 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or warm in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use a regular cake pan instead of a muffin tin?

Yes, you can! Simply grease and line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper, and follow the same steps for assembling and baking. The cooking time may vary, so keep an eye on it and use the toothpick test to check for doneness.

How can I make this recipe more tropical?

Add shredded coconut to the cake batter or top each mini cake with toasted coconut flakes after flipping. You can also try adding a small piece of mango or a drizzle of coconut cream for extra tropical flavor.

Can I freeze these mini cakes?

Yes, you can freeze the cakes. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag, and store them for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and reheat before serving.

Is there a way to make these cakes without maraschino cherries?

Definitely! If you prefer, you can omit the maraschino cherries or substitute them with a fresh fruit of your choice, such as strawberries, raspberries, or even a few extra pineapple pieces.

How do I get the perfect caramelized topping?

Make sure to coat the bottom of each muffin cup evenly with the melted butter and brown sugar mixture. Let the cakes cool for 5 minutes before flipping, as this ensures the topping stays intact and caramelized when removed from the pan.

Conclusion

Mini Pineapple Upside Down Cakes are a fun, individual twist on a beloved classic, and I think you’ll love how easy and delicious they are. The caramelized topping, sweet pineapple, and moist cake come together perfectly, creating a dessert that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because, these mini treats will bring a little sunshine to any day.