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Cranberry Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is a timeless dessert that blends buttery caramel, juicy pineapple, and bright cranberries into one beautiful, crowd-pleasing treat. This cake takes the nostalgic charm of a traditional upside-down cake and elevates it with a sweet-and-tart flavor balance that feels both comforting and refreshing.
Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, brunch tables, or casual weekend baking, this homemade cake looks impressive while using simple, affordable ingredients. The caramelized fruit topping creates a stunning presentation once inverted, making it ideal for entertaining without complicated decorating.
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If you are searching for a reliable upside-down cake recipe that delivers moist texture, bold flavor, and bakery-style results at home, this cranberry pineapple upside-down cake is a must-bake.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy, straightforward preparation with basic pantry staples
- Beautiful presentation without frosting or decoration
- Sweet pineapple balances tart cranberries perfectly
- Moist, tender cake with a rich caramelized topping
- Family-friendly and great for holidays or special occasions
- Budget-friendly alternative to store-bought desserts
Ingredients Breakdown
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture to both the caramel layer and the cake batter. Using unsalted butter allows better control over overall salt; salted butter can be used by slightly reducing added salt.
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• Brown Sugar – Creates the signature caramel base when melted with butter. Brown sugar adds depth, warmth, and a slight molasses flavor that pairs beautifully with fruit.
• Pineapple Slices – Provide juicy sweetness and classic upside-down cake flavor. Canned pineapple works well and offers consistent results; be sure to drain thoroughly.
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• Fresh Cranberries – Add bright tartness that balances the sweetness of pineapple and caramel. Fresh cranberries hold their shape and provide a pleasant texture contrast.
• All-Purpose Flour – Forms the structure of the cake without making it dense. Accurate measuring ensures a light yet sturdy crumb.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake batter and helps create a soft, tender interior.
• Eggs – Add structure and moisture. Room-temperature eggs blend more smoothly and help the cake bake evenly.
• Milk – Keeps the cake moist and tender. Whole milk works best, but alternatives can be used if needed.
• Baking Powder – Provides lift and ensures the cake rises evenly.
• Salt – Enhances flavors and balances sweetness throughout the cake.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds warmth and rounds out the flavors. Pure vanilla extract gives the best aroma and taste.
Tips and Tricks for Best Results
- Drain pineapple slices well to avoid excess moisture
- Do not overmix the batter, which can lead to a dense cake
- Spread fruit evenly for a balanced topping in every slice
- Let the cake cool briefly before inverting to prevent sticking
- Run a knife around the edges before flipping the cake
- Use parchment paper for extra insurance against sticking
Variations and Customizations
This upside-down cake is versatile and easy to adapt.
- Use gluten-free all-purpose flour for a celiac-friendly version
- Swap milk with coconut milk for a tropical flavor twist
- Replace cranberries with cherries or raspberries
- Add orange zest to the batter for extra brightness
- Sprinkle chopped nuts into the caramel layer for crunch
Pairing Suggestions
Serving Ideas
- Lightly whipped cream
- Vanilla ice cream
- Greek yogurt for brunch-style serving
Beverages
- Hot coffee or tea
- Sparkling water with citrus
- Warm spiced cider
Occasions
- Holiday dessert tables
- Brunch gatherings
- Potlucks and family dinners
Storage Instructions
- Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 days
- Refrigerate for up to 4 days for extended freshness
- Reheat slices gently in the microwave before serving
- Freezing is not recommended due to fruit texture changes
Popular Questions
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, frozen cranberries work well. Do not thaw before using to avoid excess moisture.
What pan works best for upside-down cake?
A metal or nonstick 9-inch square or round pan works best for even caramelization.
How do I prevent the cake from sticking?
Grease the pan thoroughly and consider lining with parchment paper before adding butter and sugar.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, it can be baked a day in advance and stored covered at room temperature.
Why invert the cake while warm?
Inverting while warm allows the caramel to release smoothly before it hardens.
Cranberry Pineapple Upside Down Cake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch square cake pan. Pour melted butter into the pan and sprinkle evenly with brown sugar.
- Arrange pineapple slices in a single layer over the sugar mixture. Scatter cranberries evenly in the gaps.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Cream softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla.
- Add dry ingredients alternating with milk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Mix just until combined.
- Pour batter evenly over the fruit layer. Bake for 40–45 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then invert onto a serving plate. Cool slightly before slicing.
Notes
- Use fresh cranberries for best texture and flavor
- Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light and tender
- Serve warm for the best caramel texture
- Ideal for make-ahead entertaining
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