Yum It’s National Pineapple Upside Down Cake Day! (2024)

Are you a fan of pineapple?

Do you love cake?

Then you’re in luck because National Pineapple Upside Down Cake Day is just around the corner! This holiday, celebrated annually on April 20, is the perfect excuse to indulge in this classic dessert.

Pineapples are often associated with hospitality, warmth, and welcome in many cultures.

This is believed to be because pineapples were a rare and exotic fruit in the past and were often presented as a gift to hosts and guests at social gatherings. The pineapple’s tough exterior and sweet interior also represent resilience and kindness, respectively.

Additionally, the crown of the pineapple is a symbol of royalty, elegance, and luxury. Because of these positive associations, pineapples have been incorporated into architecture, art, and decor as a symbol of hospitality and friendliness.

In the culinary world, pineapples are often used in desserts and dishes to add a sweet, tropical flavor and that’s never been more true than with Pineapple Upside Down Cake.

So gather your ingredients and get ready to celebrate this tropical delight!

Table of Contents

History of Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Have you ever wondered how Pineapple Upside Down Cake came to be?

People have been making pineapple upside down cake for (possibly) hundreds of years, by cooking fruit on the bottom of a skillet and pouring batter on top. When they flipped the pan over, the fruit created a beautiful pattern on the top of the cake.

Let’s take a sweet trip back in time to explore the origins of the Pineapple Upside Down Cake. This classic dessert has a rich history dating back to the early 1900s, when cast iron skillets were commonly used to bake cakes. These skillets had legs, called spiders, which allowed for easy cooking over an open fire. This type of cake was even referred to as “spider cakes.”

As ovens became more widespread, flat-bottomed skillets were used to bake the same cakes in the oven. To make a Pineapple Upside Down Cake, pineapple rings are arranged on the bottom of a cake pan and topped with a sweet batter. Once baked, the cake is flipped over so that the pineapple and cherries are on top, creating a beautiful and delicious presentation.

The 1920s saw a pivotal moment in the history of the Pineapple Upside Down Cake, when the Dole Pineapple Company decided to hold a contest for pineapple recipes. With over 2,500 submissions received, the cake soared to new heights of fame and quickly became a must-have dessert in countless households. Its popularity only continued to skyrocket from there, solidifying its place as a beloved classic to this day.

One of the reasons for the cake’s enduring popularity is its simplicity. The cake is easy to make, and the ingredients are readily available. Plus, with its golden-brown top and bright yellow pineapple slices, it’s a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds.

Over time, Pineapple Upside Down Cake has evolved with some variations. Some people add cherries to the cake, while others use fresh pineapple instead of canned. Some even make the cake in a bundt pan instead of a skillet. But despite these tweaks, the cake remains a beloved dessert enjoyed by many.

So next time you sink your teeth into a slice of Pineapple Upside Down Cake, remember its rich history and how it has evolved over time to become the delicious treat we know and love today.

Aspect of Pineapple Upside Down CakeDetails
OriginPineapple Upside Down Cake originated in the early 1900s when cast iron skillets, known as spiders, were used to bake cakes.
RecipePineapple rings are arranged on the bottom of a cake pan and topped with a sweet batter. Once baked, the cake is flipped over so that the pineapple and cherries are on top, creating a beautiful presentation.
PopularityThe cake gained widespread popularity after the Dole Pineapple Company held a recipe contest in the 1920s, which received over 2,500 submissions.
Enduring PopularityPineapple Upside Down Cake remains a popular dessert due to its simplicity and availability of ingredients.
VariationsVariations of the cake include the addition of cherries, using fresh pineapple instead of canned, and making it in a bundt pan instead of a skillet.
EvolutionDespite some variations, Pineapple Upside Down Cake remains a beloved dessert that has stood the test of time.

How to Celebrate National Pineapple Upside Down Cake Day

Baking Your Own Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Whether you’re a baking novice or an experienced pastry chef, making a Pineapple Upside Down Cake is a breeze. You can whip up your favorite recipe or take a walk on the wild side with something new.

To make a classic Pineapple Upside Down Cake, start by lining the bottom of a cake pan with pineapple rings and maraschino cherries. Pour in the batter and bake until it’s a golden masterpiece. But why settle for classic when you can have exceptional? Follow Sally’s Baking Addiction’s recipe for a Pineapple Upside Down Cake that will knock your socks off.

The recipe calls for a delightful mix of ingredients, including cake flour, creamed butter, white sugar, egg whites, sour cream, pineapple juice, and milk. And let’s not forget the toppings – canned pineapple rings, maraschino cherries, butter, and brown sugar.

Baked upside down for maximum effect, it’s important to cool the cake for 20 minutes before inverting it onto a serving plate. The cake will be denser due to the weight of the topping, but trust us, it’s worth every bite.

For best results, serve this masterpiece at room temperature. And if you happen to have leftovers, store it in the refrigerator or freezer for up to 3 days or 3 months, respectively. So, put on your apron, turn up the music, and let’s celebrate National Pineapple Upside Down Cake Day with a bang!

DessertRecipe SiteIngredients
Pineapple Upside Down CakeSally’s Baking AddictionCake flour, creamed butter, white sugar, egg whites, sour cream, pineapple juice, milk, canned pineapple rings, maraschino cherries, butter, brown sugar

Trying Different Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, try making a different variation of the classic Pineapple Upside Down Cake. You can add different fruits, like mango or peach. You can also experiment with different toppings, like whipped cream or caramel sauce. The important thing is to get creative and have fun!

Peach Upside Down Cake

Replace the pineapple with fresh or canned peaches for a delicious variation like this one from Midwest Living.

Here’s what you’ll need to get started: butter, brown sugar, peaches, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, granulated sugar, an egg, vanilla, and milk. Now let’s get down to business.

First, melt some butter in an 8x8x2-inch baking pan, add the brown sugar, and arrange those juicy peach slices over the sugar mixture. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt, while in another bowl, beat some butter and sugar like it’s nobody’s business.

Alternately add the flour mixture and milk to the butter mixture, and spread the batter over the peaches. Pop it in the oven for 45-50 minutes and let it do its thing.

Now, don’t get too eager – let that cake cool in the pan before flipping it onto a plate. And voila! You’ve got yourself a Peach Upside Down Cake that’s just as tasty as the original.

Apple Upside Down Cake

Swap out the pineapple in your Upside Down Cake for some sliced apples, and add a dash of cinnamon and nutmeg to the batter. This recipe from Rock Recipes is the perfect way to achieve that cozy, classic fall flavor.

This Old Fashioned Apple Upside Down Cake is a family recipe that has been passed down for generations. With simple ingredients and easy instructions, it’s the ideal dessert for cozy Sunday dinners or any time of year. While Red Delicious Apples are recommended, feel free to experiment with your favorite type of apple.

To make this delicious cake, you’ll start by preparing the glaze for the apples and arranging them in the bottom of the pan. Then, whip up the cake batter and pour it over the apple mixture. Pop it in the oven for 40-45 minutes, and you’ll be rewarded with a warm, comforting treat that’s best served with a scoop of vanilla bean or caramel swirl ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream.

So why not add a little fall flavor to your dessert repertoire with this Old Fashioned Apple Upside Down Cake? It’s a simple, satisfying recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Mango Upside Down Cake

Use fresh or canned mango slices instead of pineapple for a tropical flavor like this recipe from Sims Home Kitchen.

This cake is a showstopper that will impress any crowd. It’s made with a delectable combination of unsalted butter, brown sugar, mango slices, granulated sugar, mango pulp or puree, eggs, vanilla essence, all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. The Coconut Cream is made from canned coconut milk and sweetened with sugar or honey for that extra touch of sweetness.

To make this cake, start by greasing a baking tin and arranging the mango slices in a butter and sugar mixture. Then, whip up the cake batter and pour it over the top. Pop it in the oven for 30 minutes, and you’ll be rewarded with a luscious Mango Upside Down Cake that’s perfect for any occasion.

And let’s not forget about that Coconut Cream! It’s the perfect complement to the Mango Upside Down Cake, adding a creamy and tropical twist. It’s easy to make and takes the cake to the next level.

DessertRecipe SiteIngredients
Peach Upside Down CakeMidwest LivingButter, brown sugar, peaches, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, granulated sugar, egg, vanilla, milk
Apple Upside Down CakeRock RecipesApples, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, butter, granulated sugar, egg, vanilla extract, milk, cinnamon, nutmeg
Mango Upside Down CakeSims Home KitchenUnsalted butter, brown sugar, mango slices, granulated sugar, mango pulp or puree, eggs, vanilla essence, all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, canned coconut milk, sugar or honey
Yum It’s National Pineapple Upside Down Cake Day! (1)

Jenny Yen

Hi, I’m Jenny. I have many interests and, some would say, eclectic passions. A few words that best describe me? Hmm, well… Amateur surfer, professional traveler, food lover and writer extraordinaire. Oh, and lover of all furry, four-legged creatures!

Yum It’s National Pineapple Upside Down Cake Day! (2024)

FAQs

What is the significance of pineapple upside down cake? ›

A Short History of Pineapple Upside Down Cake

The origins of the pineapple upside down cake date back hundreds of years, when people would cook on cast-iron skillets over open fires. When they wanted a sweet treat, they would line the bottom of the pans with fruit, and pour batter on top.

What nationality is pineapple upside down cake? ›

Traditional upside-down preparations include the American pineapple upside-down cake, the French Tarte Tatin, and the Brazilian or Portuguese bolo de ananás (also known as bolo de abacaxi).

Is there a national upside down day? ›

National Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Day on April 20th celebrates a sweet cake that contains pineapples and cherries. Americans have been enjoying this springtime cake since the early 1900s when many cakes were made in cast iron skillets.

What does pineapple symbolize? ›

Due to its association with warmth and friendliness, pineapples in America were often used as the "crowning" piece in large displays of food. The pineapple symbol was also used frequently in the 18th and 19th centuries to decorate bed posts, tablecloths, napkins, and anything associated with welcoming guests.

What is the biblical meaning of pineapple? ›

Be Rooted. Lastly, once harvested a pineapple will not continue to ripen. That means once it is removed from the root source, its growth is stunted. Through this, God has been showing me the necessity of being rooted in community and in Him. This idea is scattered all throughout the Bible.

What is another name for pineapple upside-down cake? ›

Thought to have first appeared in the 1920s, pineapple upside-down cake has had such names as pineapple glacé and pineapple skillet cake.

Who invented upside down pineapple cake? ›

By the 1920s, canned pineapple was widely available in the States, and in 1925, Dole held a pineapple recipe contest. The winner was a pineapple upside-down cake recipe submitted by Mrs. Robert Davis from Norfolk, Virginia.

Where is pineapple cake most likely served? ›

Visitors to Taiwan will likely have enjoyed pineapple cakes 鳳梨酥, which are widely sold and enjoyed throughout the year. Pineapple cakes are typically square or rectangular, with a jammy pineapple filling encased in a tender short crust pastry.

What does the upside down stand for? ›

The Upside Down was a name given to describe a mysterious alternate dimension existing in parallel to the human world.

What is backwards day? ›

This day of fun and pranks, National Backwards Day, 31 January, intended to get children in particular thinking creatively and box proverbial the outside, was inaugurated in 3691. Apparently, it was the childbrain of two lady farmers, concocted as they chatted while milking cows.

Why is January 31 backwards day? ›

They were milking cows, thinking about arts and crafts when the initial idea came to them. The two women came up with the rules of and created it on January 29, 1961. The next day, word had spread around and the community was doing things backward. The pair then made the day on January 31 and so it has remained.

How many days is pineapple upside-down cake good for? ›

Place the pineapple upside down cake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. In addition to being stored in the refrigerator, you can cover this cake in plastic wrap and place it in the freezer for up to one month, but I promise it won't last that long!

What National Cake Day is it today? ›

NATIONAL CAKE DAY - November 26 - National Day Calendar.

What day is National pineapple day? ›

June 27th is International Pineapple Day, celebrating a tropical ground fruit indigenous to South America. It has been cultivated for centuries and was first consumed by the Tupi people, the Mayas, and the Aztecs. Did you know that pineapples don't grow on trees like coconut? They actually grow on small shrubs.

What does 🍍 mean in texting? ›

A “complicated” relationship status.

The prickly but sweet 🍍 signifies a “complicated” relationship, but this fruit-filled code has many other ingredients in the mix: : Single. 🍎: Engaged. 🍒: Committed relationship. 🍋: Single and loving it.

What does pineapple mean in girl code? ›

The game involves girls putting fruits on their stories that secretly represent their relationship status. Wojdylo Social Media wrote about the trend, and broke down what each fruit means: Blueberry = Single. Pineapple = Complicated. Raspberry = Doesn't want to commit.

What does a pineapple tattoo mean? ›

In the American South, for example, the fruit is considered a symbol of warmth, welcome, and hospitality, so a pineapple tattoo may represent a sense of home or something personally familiar. They can also symbolize affection, so it's a great idea for a couple or best friend tattoo.

What exactly is the forbidden fruit in the Bible? ›

Rabbi Meir says that the fruit was a grape, made into wine. The Zohar explains similarly that Noah attempted (but failed) to rectify the sin of Adam by using grape wine for holy purposes. The midrash of Bereish*t Rabah states that the fruit was grape, or squeezed grapes (perhaps alluding to wine).

What does pineapple mean in church? ›

A 1933 article in the Christian Science Sentinel provided details, stating that the “pineapple design is commonly regarded as representing hospitality and immortality.”

What is the spiritual fruit in the Bible? ›

Paul's writing about the fruit of the Spirit is found in Galatians 5: 22-23. In the New International Version of the Bible, these verses read: But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.

Are you supposed to eat pineapple upside down cake cold? ›

Do You Eat Pineapple Upside Down Cake Warm? This soft, simple dessert can be served warm or cold. Either way, the pineapple flavor will be light and tasty. If you serve it warm, top it with vanilla ice cream for amazing combination.

Why is pineapple cake popular? ›

Symbolism is important in Chinese culture, and that extends to Taiwan as well. The word pineapple means “prosperity arrives” so it means that it's very lucky. Pineapples have become a national symbol of Taiwan and of good fortune and increased prosperity. That's part of why pineapple cakes have become so popular.

Should pineapple upside down cake be served cold? ›

The cake will keep for up to 3 days stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Serve cold, at room temperature, or warmed slightly. The cake can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Cool the cake completely and cover with 2 layers of plastic wrap followed by two layers of aluminum foil.

What is pineapple upside down cake made of? ›

Pineapple Upside Down Cake Topping

Sticking with tradition, the topping includes canned pineapple rings, maraschino cherries, butter, and brown sugar. I always use 10 pineapple rings (some are halved for the sides), which is one 20 ounce can. Feel free to use fresh pineapple and cherries.

What is a pineapple upside down cake shot made of? ›

These pineapple upside down shots are such a fun conversation starter! The layered effect of the grenadine and vodka is so pretty and is a "piece of cake" to make (punny, right?). You only need 4 ingredients - pineapple juice, vanilla vodka, cherry vodka, and grenadine!

When was upside-down cake popular? ›

The Pineapple Upside Down Cake, which was so popular in the 1950s and 1960s, is again gaining in popularity. No wonder – it is still delicious and wonderful! Use your old cast-iron frying pan when make your Pineapple Upside Down Cake.

What is the most favorite cake in the United States? ›

Red Velvet Cake

This American classic is traditionally made for Valentine's Day and Christmas.

What country eats the most pineapple? ›

Brazilians are the biggest pineapple consumers worldwide. Around 11% of the worldwide volume is consumed in this South American country.

Why shouldn't you be upside down? ›

It is possible to die from hanging upside down for too long. It's rare, but blood can pool to the head, which can be extremely dangerous for the body. If you're interested in trying inversion therapy or another form of hanging upside down, always do so supervised by a professional, like a physical therapist.

What does a black and white upside down American flag mean? ›

Black and white flag, or subdued flag upside down is a sign of distress. There is very strict protocol for hanging, wearing, posting, flying US flags- even on uniforms.

What do you wear on a backwards day? ›

If you normally dress your children from head to toe, start feet first today. Have them wear one piece of clothing “the wrong way.” Put a sweater or hat on backwards. Be sure to lead by example and dress yourself accordingly! Kids (and good-humored adults) will find it hilarious.

What is backwards English slang? ›

"Back slang is a language constructed on lines—I venture to hint illogical lines—of its own. The initial idea is that all words are to be pronounced backwards; for instance, instead of saying 'no' you say 'on,' for 'bad man' you say 'dab nam.

What is special about january 31 2023? ›

Explore worldwide events, festivals, funny, weird, and national days on this day! It's National Hot Chocolate Day, Eat Brussel Sprouts Day, National Plan for Vacation Day, Scotch Tape Day, Hell is Freezing Over Day… and much more!

What is the Opposite Day of the year from Christmas? ›

Opposite Day, January 25 Holiday. A Topsy-Turvy Day.

Who invented backwards day? ›

National Backward Day isn't just a day of silliness, but of mental revolution. In terms of the date that we all know and celebrate today, though, this was created by Megan Emily Scott and Sarah Nicole Miller back in 1961.

Why is January 1st when it is? ›

According to tradition, during his reign (c. 715–673 BCE) Numa revised the Roman republican calendar so that January replaced March as the first month. It was a fitting choice, since January was named after Janus, the Roman god of all beginnings; March celebrated Mars, the god of war.

Do you refrigerate pineapple? ›

Whole pineapple should be left at room temperature until ripe. Once ripe, place whole pineapple, uncovered, in the refrigerator. To store cut pineapple, seal in a GladWare® food protection container. Store in the refrigerator.

Why did my pineapple upside down cake fall in the middle? ›

If a cake pan is too small, the batter may be too deep. It will rise and maybe dome, but if the center is still wet, it will collapse before the structure sets in the center. (It may also spill over the sides of the pan and onto the oven floor, or both!)

Why do you store pineapple upside down? ›

My mom just told me that you should always be storing your pineapples … on their side otherwise all of the juices will go to the bottom," Mansfield says.

What cake is eaten on jan 6? ›

Celebrated every year on January 6th, this is the occasion to eat the famous Epiphany Cake. January 6th not being a public holiday, it is usually alright to start celebrating on the first Sunday of January, landing this year on January 2nd.

What is cake day slang? ›

The term “cake day” refers to an anniversary celebration – the term is most commonly used to describe the day of the year that a Reddit user opened his or her account.

What are 7 days cakes? ›

7Days Cake Bars are soft, light, melt-in-your-mouth cakes with a deliciously sweet filling, topped with a drizzle of dark chocolate — the perfect dessert or indulgent afternoon snack. Each cake bar comes individually wrapped and ready-to-eat.

Why do girls eat pineapple before meeting him? ›

Did you remember to drink pineapple juice? Yes, ladies — and men too, for that matter — drinking a good sized glass of pineapple juice a couple of hours before the deed can help make your bodily fluids taste and even smell better. Fruits in general are good because they contain acids and sugars.

What month is pineapple month? ›

PEAR AND PINEAPPLE MONTH | October - National Day Calendar.

What does an upside-down pineapple mean to some people? ›

• Last Modified Jan 26, 2023 04:33 GMT. Source: Pineapple's Instagram. The secret symbol of an upside-down pineapple is regularly used as a code to swing or "wife-swapping". In most cases, an illustrated and inverted pineapple is attached to a customer's cabin door interested in swinging and exchanging partners.

Where did upside-down cake originated from? ›

But the concept of upside-down cake is nothing new. As early as the Middle Ages, Europeans made some cakes by topping batter with fruit — usually apples or dried fruit — and cooking it over a fire (or baking it), then flipping it over for serving.

What does the pineapple symbolize in Hawaiian culture? ›

Pineapples symbolize hospitality or "welcome." While many people think of Hawaii when they think of pineapples, the fruit didn't grow there originally. They probably first found in South America where they grew in the wild, and were brought to Hawaii since it has a good climate for them to grow in.

What is the pineapple theory in dating? ›

If you're struggling with rejection, Schwartz says to keep in mind what she calls her “pineapple theory,” which goes like this: Someone doesn't like pineapple, so they take it off their plate when it's served. But there are tons of people out there who love pineapple.

Why should you place the cake upside down? ›

Its rise is created by the egg whites and until it cools, its structure is not set. Allowing it to cool upside down ensures it doesn't collapse. Many angel food cake pans come with feet around the edges for this very purpose.

Why is it called Devil cake? ›

Devil's Food Cake

There are a few theories as to how it got its name. One, it's the decadent counterpart to angel food cake. Two, it's sinfully delicious. Finally, devil's food cake came about during a time when food that was spicy, rich, or dark was described as deviled, like deviled ham and deviled eggs.

What does it mean when you hang a pineapple on your front porch? ›

The pineapple is a symbol of hospitality. Many porches will have one as their door matt, or as a sculpture or doorknocker. Having a pineapple at your door means you are a welcoming, hospitable, warm and friendly home. American colonists began importing the pineapple from the Caribbean in the 17th century.

What does a pineapple tattoo on the finger mean? ›

In the American South, for example, the fruit is considered a symbol of warmth, welcome, and hospitality, so a pineapple tattoo may represent a sense of home or something personally familiar. They can also symbolize affection, so it's a great idea for a couple or best friend tattoo.

What do pineapples and flamingos mean? ›

Fictionally, those pink plastic flamingos are often used as a symbol of kitsch and being insultingly cheap. Now, the reality is, like pineapples symbolize all their great things, flamingos are portrayed as symbols of peace, beauty, balance, grace, femininity and innocence.

What is the pineapple secret code? ›

On a cruise ship, the secret symbol of an upside-down pineapple is regularly used as a code for swinging or “wife-swapping”. In most cases, an illustrated and upside-down pineapple is fixed to the cabin door of a guest interested in swinging and partner swapping.

What does a pineapple on an RV mean? ›

However, in most cases, a pineapple is just a pineapple that bears the same meanings it has for centuries. As we've learned from our brief history lesson, a pineapple on a camper signifies friendship and hospitality. And as many RVers defend, “I just like pineapples.”

What does a pineapple door knocker mean? ›

A pineapple (​Ananas comosus​) posted on a door is a simple symbol of welcome. Many businesses and hotels, especially in Hawaii and the U.S. South, display the prickly skinned fruit to demonstrate their desire to serve. Residences also display pineapple-shaped door knockers and plaques to show goodwill to passersby.

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