Gluten Free Pineapple Upside Down Cake

This classic, Gluten Free Pineapple Upside Down Cake brings nostalgic delight to a whole new level. Whether you're hosting a party, celebrating a special occasion, or craving a moist and delicious treat, this cake has got you covered.

If you like easy gluten-free desserts, you'll love these gluten-free Oreo balls, gluten-free pumpkin cupcakes, fried gluten-free donuts, our gluten free carrot cake or these peanut butter oatmeal bars.

Why I love this pineapple upside down recipe

• Gluten-free goodness: This recipe is perfect for anyone with celiac disease or a gluten allergy. Made with the perfect blend of gluten-free flour, you won't even know this classic dessert is gluten free.
• Quick and easy: Like these red velvet cake mix cookies, the ease of using cake mix shortens the baking process. Leaving you with a delicious dessert in no time.
• Party ready: You can make this cake into individual, mini gluten-free cakes, or as one large cake. Perfect for parties or any celebration.
• The tropical twist: The pineapple bites and maraschino cherries add a burst of tropical flavor to every bite of cake.

Ingredients needed

• Gluten free cake mix
• Eggs
• Oil
• Milk
• Butter
• Brown sugar
• Pineapple rings (and be sure to save some for Dole whip popsicles)
• Maraschino cherries

How to make a Gluten-free Pineapple Upside-Down Cake

Mix the batter: In a stand mixer or large bowl, combine ½ cup softened butter, oil, milk and eggs then slowly whisk in the cake mix and combine until smooth

Prepare the pan: In a 9×13 glass pan, place the sliced ½ cup butter squares across the whole bottom of the pan then sprinkle evenly with brown sugar. Add a the pineapple rings top of the brown sugar and add a maraschino cherry to the middle of each pineapple ring.

Add the cake batter: Pour batter over the cherries and pineapple rings. Tap the pan a couple times to make sure the batter settles.

Bake: Bake until golden brown or a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and flip:  Once removed from the oven, immedietely but gently turn the cake upside down on a large wooden cutting board or baking sheet, revealing the pineapple and cherries on top.

Pro tip: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to take this recipe to the next level.

Make ahead, storage, and freezing instructions:

How to make ahead: You can make this classic cake a day or two ahead of time and keep in an airtight container until you're ready to serve. This is a great way to save some time in the kitchen.

How to store: After the cake has completely cooled to room temperature, store leftover cake in a airtight container on the counter for 2-3 days.

Can you freeze this cake? Yes, you can freeze pineapple cake for up to three months. Wrap the cake in plastic wrap or place in a freezer safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight and serve when ready.

Recipe variations

• Coconut Crunch: Sprinkle shredded coconut flakes on top of the cake before serving for added crunch and more flavor.
• Get nutty: Feel free to add crushed nuts on top of the cake. Chopped peanuts, pecans, macadamia nuts, or even pistachios will work.
• Chocolate lover: If you're a chocolate fan, drizzle the cake with melted chocolate or hot fudge.

More dessert recipes

• This is creamy gluten-free cheesecake a great option for holiday parties or any special event.
• If you like pineapple flavor, you'll love this piña colada mocktail.
• This gluten-free apple cake is another great upside down cake recipe.
• For something different, try these easy cakesicles.

Can I use fresh pineapple?

Yes, you can use fresh pineapple chunks but make sure you drain any excess pineapple juice just as you would with canned pineapple.