Pineapple Upside Down Cake Pops

Name: Pineapple Upside Down Cake Pops
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 pops
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 1 large egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 1/2 cup chopped pineapple; 1/2 cup caramel sauce

Highlighted under: Dreamy Dessert Lab

I absolutely love making these Pineapple Upside Down Cake Pops for gatherings or just for a sweet treat at home. The blend of the moist cake with caramelized pineapples creates a delightful contrast that my family can't resist. Plus, the pop format makes them perfect for parties, allowing everyone to indulge in a miniature dessert without the mess. With a drizzle of rich caramel sauce, these bites truly bring a tropical twist to a classic dessert, and they’re surprisingly easy to whip up!

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2026-02-04T17:53:27.167Z

When I first experimented with cake pops, I envisioned them as a fun and portable version of classic desserts. My favorite flavor combination has always been pineapple and caramel, so transforming the iconic Pineapple Upside Down Cake into bite-sized pops seemed brilliant! After numerous tests, I realized that using crushed pineapple in the batter keeps the pops moist without becoming soggy.

To elevate the flavor, I added a touch of brown sugar and melted butter in the bottom of the molds before pouring in the batter. The result was nothing short of heavenly, with each pop boasting that signature caramelized layer reminiscent of the original dessert.

Why You’ll Love These Cake Pops
A fun twist on a classic dessert that’s easy to share
Bursting with tropical flavor in every bite
Drizzled with caramel for an extra touch of decadence

Mastering the Cake Pop Technique

When making cake pops, achieving the perfect texture is crucial. The combination of crushed pineapple and butter in the batter not only adds moisture but also contributes to a tender crumb. Be careful not to overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added; mixing just until combined helps create a light, fluffy cake rather than a dense one. If you do accidentally overmix, your cake pops may end up less airy.

To ensure your cake pops come out of the molds easily, be generous when greasing the molds with non-stick spray. This little step will save you from any frustrating stuck pops later. After baking, if you notice any sticking, let the pops cool slightly and then gently insert a thin knife around the edges to help release them.

Choosing Ingredients Wisely

The key flavors in these cake pops come from high-quality butter, sugar, and fresh pineapple. If you're looking for a lighter option, you could substitute unsweetened applesauce for half of the butter in the batter. This can reduce calories without compromising the flavor too much. However, keep an eye on the texture; it may not be as rich as the original recipe.

For the caramel sauce, you can use store-bought, but if you're feeling adventurous, try making your own. Homemade caramel takes only sugar and water and can elevate the flavor profile substantially. Just cook until the mixture is a deep amber color and be careful not to burn it, as burnt caramel can develop a bitter taste.

Ingredients

Here's everything you'll need to create these delicious cake pops!

For the Cake Pops

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Topping

1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup chopped pineapple
1/2 cup caramel sauce

Make sure to gather all your ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth baking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delightful Pineapple Upside Down Cake Pops!

Prepare the Pop Molds

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your cake pop molds with non-stick spray. In a small saucepan, melt the butter and brown sugar together until bubbling. Spoon this mixture into the bottom of each mold.

Mix the Batter

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla, then add crushed pineapple. In another bowl, mix the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients until just combined.

Fill the Molds

Pour the batter over the caramelized mixture in the molds, filling them about 2/3 full. Add a few pieces of chopped pineapple on top of the batter.

Bake the Pops

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool for a few minutes before gently removing them from the molds.

Add the Caramel Drizzle

Once the pops are completely cool, drizzle them with caramel sauce for an extra layer of sweetness. Serve and enjoy your cake pops!

These cake pops are best enjoyed fresh, but they can also be stored in an airtight container for a couple of days.

Pro Tips

To enhance the flavor, consider adding a dash of cinnamon to the batter or sprinkling toasted coconut on top before drizzling with caramel.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Pineapple Upside Down Cake Pops can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, maintaining their sweetness and texture. If you want to make them ahead of time for a party, you can prepare the cake pops and then drizzle the caramel sauce just before serving. This way, they remain fresh and don’t get soggy from the sauce absorbing into the cake.

If you're planning to freeze them, it’s best to do so before adding the caramel drizzle. Place the cooled pops in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be reheated in the microwave or allowed to thaw in the refrigerator before serving, though the pops are best enjoyed fresh.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For an extra tropical flair, consider rolling your cake pops in toasted coconut flakes after drizzling with caramel. This addition enhances the flavor and presents beautifully. Alternatively, you could use a blend of mango and pineapple for the fruit in the batter, adding a unique twist to the classic taste.

If you want to cater to different dietary preferences, you can make these cake pops gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Ensure that the caramel sauce is gluten-free as well, especially if making it from scratch, as some brands may contain gluten in their ingredients.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, fresh pineapple works great! Just make sure to finely chop it and drain any excess juice.

→ How do I store the leftover cake pops?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze these cake pops?

Absolutely! Freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to an airtight container. Thaw them before serving.

→ What can I substitute for egg?

You can use a flax egg or applesauce as a substitute for the egg to make these pops vegan.