Emily ParkerBy Emily Parker

Updated November 2026

A pineapple upside cake in a cast iron skillet is one of the easiest ways to get a caramelized fruit topping and a tender, golden crumb in a single pan. You will melt butter and brown sugar right in the skillet, arrange the pineapple, pour the batter over it, and flip the finished cake onto a plate. The cast iron holds heat evenly, so the bottom caramelizes without scorching.

What You Need Before You Start

  • A 10-inch or 10.25-inch cast iron skillet with a smooth, well-seasoned cooking surface
  • Canned pineapple rings in juice, drained and patted dry, or fresh pineapple sliced into rings
  • Unsalted butter, brown sugar, and maraschino cherries if you want the classic look
  • Standard cake batter (a yellow cake or pineapple-friendly vanilla batter works well)
  • A heatproof plate or rimmed serving platter slightly larger than the skillet

How to Make the Caramel Base in the Skillet

Start the caramel on the stovetop so the sugar melts evenly before the cake goes in. Melt about 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat, then stir in roughly 1 cup of packed brown sugar until it forms a smooth, bubbling layer. Cook for about 2 minutes, then remove the skillet from the heat so the sugar does not burn.

Shopping for one? See our guide: Lodge Cast Iron Skillet Review: Pros and Cons.

Arranging the Pineapple and Pouring the Batter

Lay the pineapple rings in a single layer over the caramel, filling any gaps with pineapple pieces. Place a cherry in the center of each ring if you like. Make your batter, spoon it gently over the fruit, and spread it to the edges without disturbing the rings. Keep the batter light enough to rise but thick enough to hold the fruit in place.

Baking Steps

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F with a rack in the center position.
  2. Set the skillet on the middle rack and bake for 35 to 45 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the cake comes out clean.
  3. Let the skillet rest on a heatproof surface for 5 minutes. This lets the caramel thicken slightly so it sticks to the cake less.

Flipping the Cake Out Cleanly

Place your serving plate over the skillet, then, using oven mitts, invert both together in one confident motion. Lift the skillet straight off after a few seconds. If a piece of pineapple stays behind, move it back into place with a spoon while the cake is still warm. Cast iron keeps the cake hot for a long time, so work quickly but carefully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Using wet pineapple, which thins the caramel and makes the topping slide around.
  • Letting the butter and sugar burn before the batter goes in, which leaves a bitter taste.
  • Flipping the cake too soon, when the batter has not set and will break apart.
  • Leaving the cake in the skillet too long, which lets the caramel harden and stick.
  • Pouring batter over unevenly, causing thin spots that brown faster than the rest.

Caring for Your Skillet After Baking

Once the skillet has cooled enough to handle, scrape out any leftover caramel with a silicone spatula, wipe the pan, and dry it fully on the stovetop. Rub a very thin layer of oil on the cooking surface to protect the seasoning. For a deeper guide to cleaning without damaging the seasoning, see How to Clean a Cast Iron Skillet: 5 Steps That Protect the Seasoning. If the seasoning looks thin after repeated sugary bakes, How to Season Cast Iron Skillet: 6 Steps for a Slick, Durable Pan explains how to rebuild it.

  • Lodge 10.25 inch cast iron skillet: A widely available pan with a generous cooking surface that suits a standard pineapple upside cake recipe. View on Amazon
  • Silicone baking spatula: Helps you loosen caramel from the edges without scratching the seasoning. View on Amazon
  • Heavy-duty oven mitts: Cast iron stays very hot after baking, and a secure grip makes the flip much safer. View on Amazon

FAQ

Can I use a different size skillet for pineapple upside cake?

A 10-inch or 10.25-inch skillet is the most common choice because it matches standard cake recipes. A smaller pan will make a thicker cake that needs more baking time, so check doneness carefully.

Do I need to grease a cast iron skillet for this recipe?

The butter and brown sugar layer acts as a built-in release, so extra greasing is usually unnecessary. If your skillet is not well seasoned, a light coat of butter on the sides helps the cake release.

Can I make pineapple upside cake ahead of time?

It is best served warm on the day you bake it, since the caramel softens as it cools. You can store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to two days.

Conclusion

A pineapple upside cake in a cast iron skillet comes together with one pan, a clear caramel base, and a careful flip. Drain your pineapple well, bake until the center is set, and let the cake rest briefly before inverting it. With a bit of practice, the result is a glossy, golden topping every time.

Ready to choose one?

Emily Parker

About Emily Parker

Emily Parker is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our cookware & knives guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.