Introduction
Mini Pineapple Upside-Down Cakes are a charming, individual-sized version of the classic retro dessert. Made in a muffin tin, these cakes feature a beautifully caramelized pineapple-and-cherry “flower” topping with a moist, buttery sponge underneath—perfect for parties and family gatherings.
Ingredients
• 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
(plus eggs, oil, and liquid required on the box)
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ⅔ cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 can (20 oz) pineapple tidbits or chunks, drained
(reserve the juice for the batter)
• 1 jar (about 10 oz) maraschino cherries, stems removed and patted dry
• Non-stick cooking spray
Instructions
• Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F).
• Generously spray a standard 12-cup muffin tin with non-stick spray.
• Prepare all ingredients and reserve pineapple juice for the cake batter.
How to Make
• Spoon about 1 teaspoon of melted butter into each muffin cup.
• Sprinkle 2 teaspoons of brown sugar evenly over the butter.
• Place one cherry in the center of each cup.
• Arrange 5–6 pineapple pieces around the cherry to form a flower pattern.
• Prepare the cake mix according to package directions, replacing water with pineapple juice.
• Carefully fill each muffin cup about ¾ full with batter.
• Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
• Let cakes rest in the pan for exactly 5 minutes.
• Run a knife around edges, place a tray over the pan, and quickly flip.
• Lift the pan slowly and reposition any fruit if needed.
Variations
• Tropical Coconut: Add ½ cup shredded coconut and use coconut milk instead of water.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the brown sugar layer.
• Spiced Ginger: Add 1 teaspoon ground ginger to the cake batter.
• Mini Banana Version: Add thin banana slices with the pineapple.
Tips
• Pat pineapple and cherries dry to prevent soggy tops.
• Do not let cakes cool completely before flipping—5 minutes is ideal.
• Use pineapple in natural juice for better flavor balance.
• Place the tray firmly over the pan before flipping to avoid spills.
Conclusion
These Mini Pineapple Upside-Down Cakes are as beautiful as they are delicious. With their caramelized fruit topping, soft cake texture, and perfect portion size, they deliver a nostalgic dessert experience that’s sure to impress every time.
