Golden, caramelized, and bursting with bright citrus sweetness, this Mango Tangerine Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is a fresh twist on a classic favorite. Juicy pineapple and rich brown sugar melt together beneath a soft, buttery cake infused with Lesley Elizabeth Mango Tangerine Sugar. Each slice delivers a balance of tropical fruit and warm citrus flavor that feels both nostalgic and beautifully elevated.
Serves: 8 to 10
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 to 45 minutes
Ingredients
Topping:
¼ cup unsalted butter
½ cup brown sugar
½ cup Lesley Elizabeth Mango Tangerine Sugar
1 can (20 oz) pineapple slices, drained
Maraschino cherries, optional
Cake Batter:
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup Lesley Elizabeth Mango Tangerine Sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup milk
Instructions
Prepare the Oven:
Preheat to 350°F. Grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
Create the Caramel Base:
In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar and Mango Tangerine Sugar until fully combined. Pour evenly into the prepared pan.
Layer the Fruit:
Arrange pineapple slices over the sugar mixture. Place maraschino cherries in the centers if using.
Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
Cream the Batter:
In a separate bowl, cream butter, granulated sugar, and Mango Tangerine Sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
Combine & Finish Batter:
Add dry ingredients to the wet mixture alternately with milk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Assemble the Cake:
Pour batter over the pineapple layer and spread evenly.
Bake to Perfection:
Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool & Invert:
Let cool for 10 minutes, then carefully invert onto a serving plate to reveal the caramelized fruit topping.
Why Use Lesley Elizabeth Mango Tangerine Sugar?
Mango Tangerine Sugar brings vibrant citrus notes and tropical sweetness that elevate this classic dessert beyond traditional brown sugar alone. It adds brightness and depth, enhancing both the caramelized topping and the tender cake for a flavor that feels fresh, balanced, and unforgettable.
Tips & Variations
Add a splash of pineapple juice to the batter for extra moisture and flavor.
Swap pineapple rings for crushed pineapple for a more rustic texture.
Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent finish.
Try adding toasted coconut flakes for added tropical flair.
Craving more ways to bake with bright, handcrafted flavors? Explore the Lesley Elizabeth Recipe Collection and discover sweet creations that bring a fresh twist to every occasion.