Ingredients
For the Caramel Pineapple Topping
½ cup unsalted butter
1 cup packed brown sugar
8–10 pineapple slices (canned or fresh, well drained)
For the Cake
2½ cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1½ cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¾ cup pineapple juice
½ cup sour cream or plain yogurt
Instructions
Prepare the Bundt Pan
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease a Bundt pan, making sure to coat every groove and curve to ensure the cake releases easily after baking.
Make the Caramel Layer
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar until smooth and combined. Pour the caramel mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared Bundt pan, spreading it carefully with a spatula.
Arrange the pineapple slices over the caramel, slightly overlapping them around the bottom of the pan to create a beautiful decorative pattern that will appear when the cake is inverted.
Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined. Set aside.
Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light, fluffy, and pale in color, about 3–4 minutes. This step incorporates air into the batter, producing a tender, moist cake.
Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Combine the Batter
In a small bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice and sour cream until smooth.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the pineapple juice mixture. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing only until combined after each addition. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake soft and tender.
Assemble the Cake
Carefully spoon the batter over the arranged pineapple slices, spreading it evenly without disturbing the fruit. Smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake
Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
Cool and Invert
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes. Run a thin knife around the edges if necessary, then carefully invert the cake onto a serving plate while it is still warm. Let the rich caramel sauce drip naturally over the sides for a stunning presentation.
Description
This Caramel Pineapple Upside-Down Bundt Cake is incredibly moist, buttery, and packed with tropical pineapple flavor. The rich homemade caramel creates a glossy, golden topping that soaks into the fruit, while the soft vanilla cake remains light and tender.
Every slice offers the perfect balance of sweet caramel, juicy pineapple, and fluffy cake, making it an elegant dessert for family gatherings, holidays, birthdays, or any special occasion.
Pro Tips for Best Results
Drain canned pineapple thoroughly to prevent excess moisture.
Grease the Bundt pan generously for easy release.
Do not overmix the batter to maintain a soft, delicate crumb.
Invert the cake while still warm so the caramel flows beautifully over the cake.
Allow the cake to cool slightly before slicing to help it hold its shape.
Variations
Add maraschino cherries between the pineapple slices for a classic pineapple upside-down cake presentation.
Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the caramel before adding the pineapple for extra crunch.
Replace the vanilla extract with coconut extract for a tropical flavor twist.
Serve each slice with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert.
Nutritional Information
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Bake Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Approximate per serving:
Calories: 430 kcal
Carbohydrates: 57 g
Protein: 5 g
Fat: 21 g
Sugar: 37 g
Conclusion
Caramel Pineapple Upside-Down Bundt Cake is a timeless dessert that combines the rich sweetness of homemade caramel with juicy pineapple and a soft, buttery cake. Its beautiful presentation and irresistible flavor make it perfect for entertaining or celebrating any occasion. Easy to prepare yet elegant enough for guests, this cake is sure to become a favorite recipe you’ll make again and again.