This Cranberry Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is a delightful twist on the classic dessert. The tartness of cranberries perfectly balances the sweetness of pineapple, creating a beautiful and flavorful treat. The caramelized fruit topping, combined with a moist and buttery cake, makes this dessert irresistible for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A stunning presentation with a glossy, caramelized fruit topping
A perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors
Moist, buttery cake with a light and fluffy texture
Ideal for holiday gatherings and special occasions
Simple ingredients and easy-to-follow directions

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Unsalted butter
Brown sugar
Fresh or frozen cranberries
Pineapple slices
All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Salt
Granulated sugar
Eggs
Vanilla extract
Milk

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
Melt butter in the cake pan, then sprinkle brown sugar evenly over the bottom.
Arrange pineapple slices and cranberries on top of the brown sugar mixture.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, beat sugar and butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with milk, until the batter is smooth.
Pour the batter over the fruit layer in the cake pan and spread evenly.
Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool for 10 minutes, then carefully invert it onto a serving plate.
Serve warm or at room temperature and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8-10 slices
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
Total Time: 55-60 minutes

Variations

Nutty Addition: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the brown sugar for added crunch.
Citrus Twist: Add orange zest to the cake batter for a bright citrusy flavor.
Spiced Version: Incorporate cinnamon and nutmeg into the batter for a warm, spiced taste.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with dairy-free margarine and milk with almond or coconut milk.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a 300°F oven for 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?

Grease the pan well and ensure the caramelized sugar fully coats the bottom to prevent sticking.

Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

Yes, canned pineapple works well. Just be sure to drain it thoroughly before using.

Do I have to use cranberries?

No, you can substitute cranberries with cherries, raspberries, or another tart fruit.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Let it come to room temperature before serving.

What if my cake is too moist or soggy?

This may happen if there is too much liquid from the fruit. Drain any excess juice from the fruit before baking.

Can I use a different cake base?

Yes, you can use a vanilla or spice cake mix if you prefer an easier option.

What size pan should I use?

A 9-inch round cake pan is ideal, but you can also use an 8-inch pan with a slightly longer bake time.

Can I make this cake in a cast iron skillet?

Yes, a well-seasoned cast iron skillet works beautifully for upside-down cakes.

What is the best way to invert the cake?

Place a serving plate over the pan, hold both firmly, and quickly flip it over. Let it sit for a minute before removing the pan.

Can I add whipped cream or ice cream?

Absolutely! A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream makes it even more delicious.

Conclusion

This Cranberry Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is a show-stopping dessert that combines sweet, tart, and buttery flavors in every bite. Perfect for the holidays or any special occasion, it’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Try it out and impress your guests with this delicious treat!