🌿 Ingredients List (with Substitutions)
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this luscious air fryer dessert:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 box pineapple cake mix – or yellow cake mix with a splash of pineapple juice for extra flavor
- Ingredients listed on the cake box (typically eggs, water, oil)
- 1/2 stick butter (1/4 cup) – melted
- 1/2 cup brown sugar – light or dark works
For the Glaze and Topping:
- 1 can pineapple slices in juice (not syrup)
- Maraschino cherries – optional, but traditional and colorful
🪖 Equipment You’ll Need
- Air fryer (basket-style or oven-style)
- 6” springform pan
- Wire rack (to elevate the pan inside the air fryer)
- Cooking spray or non-stick baking spray (like PAM)
- Parchment paper (optional, for easier cleanup)
- Aluminum foil (to prevent over-browning)
🥜 Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple directions to make your pineapple upside down cake in the air fryer:
1. Prepare the Pan
- Spray the springform pan with cooking spray.
- Cut a round of parchment paper to fit the bottom and secure it using the springform ring.
- This helps prevent the brown sugar glaze from leaking and sticking.
2. Make the Glaze
- In a bowl, melt 1/2 stick of butter.
- Mix with 1/2 cup brown sugar until fully combined.
- Pour this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan.
3. Add Fruit
- Arrange pineapple rings on top of the sugar mixture.
- Place maraschino cherries in the center of each ring.
4. Mix Cake Batter
- Prepare the pineapple cake mix according to package instructions.
- You can replace some of the water with pineapple juice for a richer flavor.
5. Add Batter
- Gently pour the batter over the pineapple slices.
- Smooth the top with a spatula.
6. Cover and Bake
- Cover the top of the pan with aluminum foil.
- Place the pan on a wire rack inside your air fryer basket.
- Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 28 minutes.
7. Final Browning
- Carefully remove the foil.
- Continue to air fry for another 5 minutes to brown the top.
8. Cool and Invert
- Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
- Run a knife around the edges and release the springform ring.
- Carefully invert onto a serving plate and remove parchment.
🍰 Recipe Card
Air Fryer Pineapple Upside Down Cake
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 33 minutes
- Total Time: 43 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories: Approx. 300 per serving
🫵 How to Store & Reheat
Storage:
- Let cake cool completely.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating:
- Warm slices in the microwave for 15–20 seconds.
- Or reheat in the air fryer at 300°F for 2–3 minutes.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Pair your air fryer pineapple upside down cake with:
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream
- Fresh whipped cream
- A drizzle of caramel sauce
- A tropical fruit salad on the side
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a different cake mix?
Yes! Yellow or vanilla cake mix works well. Add a bit of pineapple juice for flavor.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use a gluten-free cake mix and follow the same instructions.
What if I don’t have a springform pan?
Use a small round cake pan that fits in your air fryer. Just line it well.
Do I have to use cherries?
No — they’re traditional but optional. You can skip or replace with berries.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes. Make a day in advance and store covered in the fridge. Reheat before serving.
🔮 Pro Tips for Success
- Line your pan well to prevent leaks and sticking.
- Use parchment and foil for easy cleanup and even baking.
- Don’t overfill your pan — leave space for rising.
- Test doneness with a toothpick.
- Cool slightly before flipping to avoid breaking the cake.
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