Servings: 12 cupcakes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Difficulty: Easy
Calories per Cupcake (Approx.): 230
Macros: Protein: 2g | Carbs: 28g | Fat: 12g | Fiber: 1g
A Retro Classic in Bite-Sized Bliss
Looking for a nostalgic treat with a fun, modern twist? These Miniature Pineapple Upside-Down Cupcakes deliver the same golden, buttery goodness as the classic cake — but in individual, handheld portions that are perfect for sharing (or not sharing at all!).
Moist, fluffy yellow cake sits on a caramelized layer of brown sugar, butter, pineapple, and cherries — all baked into a sweet, upside-down surprise. Thanks to the use of boxed cake mix and canned pineapple, they’re quick, easy, and guaranteed to impress at potlucks, picnics, or cozy nights in.
Plus, they’re made with real fruit and can be served with a dollop of whipped cream for that perfect finishing touch.
Why You’ll Love These Cupcakes
- 🍍 Fruity, moist, and perfectly portioned
- 🧁 Classic pineapple upside-down cake — no slicing needed
- ⏱️ Easy prep with boxed mix and pantry staples
Ingredients Needed
For the Cupcake Base:
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 3–4 large eggs (check box instructions)
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup pineapple juice (reserved from canned pineapple)
For the Pineapple Topping:
- ¼ cup butter, melted
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 can (20 oz) pineapple slices, drained and cut into small chunks
- 12 maraschino cherries, halved
Optional Topping:
- Whipped cream, for serving
How to Make Mini Pineapple Upside-Down Cupcakes
1. Preheat & Prep
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) — or up to 375°F if using a dark muffin pan.
Grease a standard 12-cup muffin tin thoroughly with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Create the Topping Base
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter and brown sugar.
Spoon 1 tablespoon of this mixture into the bottom of each muffin cup.
Add a few pieces of pineapple chunks and half a maraschino cherry on top of the butter-sugar base in each cup.
3. Make the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, prepare the yellow cake mix according to the box instructions — but replace the water with pineapple juice from the canned pineapple.
Typically, you’ll mix:
- Cake mix
- 3–4 eggs
- ½ cup oil
- 1 cup pineapple juice
Whisk until smooth.
4. Assemble & Bake
Pour the batter over the fruit layer in each muffin cup, filling about ¾ full.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
5. Cool & Flip
Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for about 5 minutes.
Then, carefully invert the pan onto a cooling rack or tray to release the cupcakes upside down. Use a knife if needed to loosen the edges.
6. Serve
Top with a swirl of whipped cream for an extra sweet, creamy bite. Serve warm or chilled — both ways are delicious!
Storage & Serving Tips
- Store cupcakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently in the microwave for 15–20 seconds if serving warm.
- Freeze: Not recommended due to the moist fruit layer, but they can be frozen for up to 1 month if needed.
- Serve with: whipped cream, vanilla Greek yogurt, or even a scoop of protein ice cream for a healthier twist.
FAQs & Pro Tips
Can I use cupcake liners?
It’s best to skip the liners — the sugar-fruit layer can stick. Grease your pan well instead.
How do I keep them from falling apart when flipping?
Let them rest for 5 minutes after baking, and run a knife gently around each edge before inverting.
Can I use fresh pineapple?
Yes! Just chop it small and pat dry to remove extra moisture.
How can I make these higher in protein?
Use a high-protein cake mix or sub ½ cup of cake mix with vanilla protein powder.
Can I make these dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use a plant-based butter alternative and dairy-free whipped topping.
SEO Enhancements
Main Keyword: miniature pineapple upside-down cupcakes
Semantic Variations: upside-down fruit cupcakes, single-serve pineapple cake, easy party dessert, tropical cupcake recipe
Internal Link Suggestions:
Final Thoughts
These Mini Pineapple Upside-Down Cupcakes are the perfect mix of fun, flavor, and convenience. Whether you’re prepping for a family gathering or just want a cheerful, fruity treat — these golden cupcakes always deliver.
