Name: Instant Pot Pineapple Upside Down Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 18 maraschino cherries; 20 ounces pineapple slices (canned (whole)); 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted); 2 tablespoons pineapple juice; ½ cup brown sugar; ½ teaspoon cinnamon; ¼ teaspoon nutmeg; 1 teaspoon coconut extract; 1 teaspoon lime juice; 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons baking powder; ¼ teaspoon salt; ¼ cup unsalted butter (softened to room temperature); ⅓ cup sugar; ½ cup dark brown sugar (packed); 1 whole egg; 1 cup coconut milk

The moment you unveil an Instant Pot Pineapple Upside Down Cake, you can expect gasps of delight and smiles all around. This classic dessert has found a new home in the world of pressure cooking, bringing comfort and nostalgia to the table with every slice. The golden pineapple rings, bright red maraschino cherries, and a sweet caramelized base create a beautiful and irresistible treat that will impress any guest. Plus, making it in the Instant Pot means less time fussing in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of loved ones.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

There’s something about the combination of sweet, juicy pineapple, rich cake, and the delightful pop of cherries that makes this dessert a perennial favorite. The Instant Pot helps to lock in moisture, resulting in an incredibly tender cake that practically melts in your mouth. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to indulge in a slice of nostalgia, this cake is sure to please. It’s simple enough for a weeknight treat yet impressive enough for a dinner party, making it a truly versatile dessert.

What to Buy

To create this delicious Instant Pot Pineapple Upside Down Cake, you will need the following ingredients:

18 whole maraschino cherries
20 ounces can pineapple slices (whole)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
2 tablespoons pineapple juice
½ cup brown sugar
½ teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon nutmeg
1 teaspoon coconut extract
1 teaspoon lime juice
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ cup unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
⅓ cup sugar
½ cup dark brown sugar (packed)
1 egg
1 teaspoon coconut extract
1 cup coconut milk

Gear Up: What to Grab

Before you dive into making your Instant Pot Pineapple Upside Down Cake, make sure you have the following equipment on hand:

Instant Pot – the star of the show!
6-inch round cake pan – fits perfectly in most Instant Pots.
Mixing bowls – for combining your ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons – accuracy is key!
Rubber spatula – to scrape every last bit of batter.
Cooking spray – to ensure the cake releases easily.

Make Instant Pot Pineapple Upside Down Cake: A Simple Method

Creating your Instant Pot Pineapple Upside Down Cake is simple and straightforward. Follow these steps for a beautiful and delicious dessert:

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Pan

Start by greasing your 6-inch round cake pan with cooking spray. This will help the cake release easily after cooking.

Step 2: Create the Topping

In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, 2 tablespoons of pineapple juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix until well combined. Pour this mixture into the bottom of the prepared cake pan.

Step 3: Arrange the Pineapple and Cherries

Place the pineapple slices in a single layer over the sugar mixture. Make sure to cover the bottom completely. Nestle the maraschino cherries in the center of each pineapple ring and in any open spots for added color and flavor.

Step 4: Make the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, white sugar, and dark brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg, coconut extract, and lime juice, mixing until well incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the coconut milk. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Pour Batter Over Topping

Carefully pour the cake batter over the arranged pineapple and cherries in the cake pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

Step 7: Prepare the Instant Pot

Add 1 cup of water to the bottom of the Instant Pot. Place a trivet in the pot and carefully lower the cake pan onto the trivet.

Step 8: Pressure Cook

Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 40 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10-15 minutes, then do a quick release for any remaining pressure.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Carefully remove the cake pan from the Instant Pot and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Run a knife around the edges to loosen the cake, then invert it onto a serving plate. Let it cool for a few more minutes before slicing and serving.

Spring–Summer–Fall–Winter Ideas

This Instant Pot Pineapple Upside Down Cake is versatile and can be enjoyed all year round. Here are some ideas to switch things up:

Spring: Add fresh strawberries or blueberries for a seasonal twist.
Summer: Serve with a scoop of coconut ice cream on top for a tropical vibe.
Fall: Incorporate spices like ginger or pumpkin spice for a cozy flavor.
Winter: Drizzle with a warm caramel sauce for an indulgent treat.

What I Learned Testing

The cake batter is quite forgiving, allowing for some adjustments without compromising texture.
Using coconut milk adds a rich flavor that pairs beautifully with the pineapple.
Be sure to allow the cake to cool slightly before inverting to avoid breaking.
Experimenting with different fruit toppings can yield delicious and unique results.

Storing Tips & Timelines

To keep your Instant Pot Pineapple Upside Down Cake fresh and delightful:

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5-7 days.
Freezing is an option! Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months.
Thaw at room temperature before serving for best texture.

Questions People Ask

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Absolutely! Fresh pineapple can be used, but be sure to slice it evenly for consistent cooking.

What if I don’t have coconut milk?

You can substitute it with regular milk or almond milk, but the flavor will differ slightly.

How do I know when the cake is done cooking?

The cake should be set in the center and a toothpick should come out clean when inserted.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the cake a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just warm it slightly before serving.

In Closing

Creating an Instant Pot Pineapple Upside Down Cake is not only a delightful experience but also a delicious way to bring joy to your table. The pressure cooking method ensures a moist and flavorful cake, while the classic combination of pineapple and cherries makes for a stunning presentation.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself to a sweet indulgence, this cake is sure to impress. So grab your Instant Pot, gather your ingredients, and make a cake that will have everyone asking for seconds!