Pineapple upside-down cakes are a classic dessert featured in countless vintage advertisements, menus, and recipe books. It may feel like this delicious dessert has been around for ages, but in reality, the official recipe has only been around for a little more than a century. The guide below explores the unique background of this delicious dessert.

What Is the History of Pineapple Upside-Down Cake?

While the creation of the first pineapple upside-down cake is unknown, it was likely invented sometime in the 1920s. An earlier version called skillet cake first appeared in the late 1800s. Since ovens were not common or reliable at the time, the common cake-making method utilized cast-iron skillets on top of stoves. These desserts were typically topped with apples or dried fruit. Canned pineapples were not a part of the equation until after 1903 when the Hawaiian Pineapple Company first introduced them to a widespread market.

In 1925, the company sponsored a contest asking participants to send their original pineapple recipes. The winning recipes would be included in a cookbook the following year. When the winners were selected, the Hawaiian Pineapple Company ran an ad campaign stating that 2,500 out of 60,000 entries featured a pineapple upside-down cake, making the dessert an instant hit. It soon became one of the most popular cakes in North America, making its way into cookbooks, magazines, and advertisements.

How Is It Typically Made Today?

Today, bakeries typically make pineapple upside-down cakes with brown sugar, canned sliced pineapple, butter, maraschino cherries, and nuts. Bakers stir melted butter and brown sugar in a cast-iron skillet or a pan, then line the bottom with pineapple slices. A maraschino cherry is placed in the middle of each circular slice, and chopped nuts are sprinkled on top. 

After they prepare the batter, it is poured into the skillet or pan and transferred to an oven. Once fully baked and allowed to rest for a few minutes, the baker places a serving plate on top and carefully flips their creation to reveal a warm, delicious pineapple upside-down cake.

If you’re craving a delectable slice of pineapple upside-down cake, head to Ted’s Bakery in Haleiwa, HI. Available at grocery stores, hotels, gas stations, and other businesses throughout the Aloha State, this bakery is famous among locals and visitors alike for developing unique and irresistible flavors. They bake and serve a variety of tasty pies, cakes, and pastries. See what their bakery carries online, or call (808) 638-8207 to ask about their menu.