Pancakes are a breakfast classic, but have you ever tried Pineapple Upside Down Pancakes? This delightful twist on the traditional pancake recipe combines the tropical sweetness of pineapple and cherries with the fluffy goodness of pancakes, creating a dish that's sure to become a new favorite. In this article, we’ll guide you through the entire process of making these delicious pancakes, from gathering ingredients to serving them up in style. Read on to discover how you can bring a taste of the tropics to your breakfast table.

What are Pineapple Upside Down Pancakes?
Pineapple Upside Down Pancakes are a creative and mouth-watering fusion of classic pancakes and pineapple upside down cake. They feature a fluffy pancake base topped with caramelized pineapple rings and maraschino cherries, offering a perfect blend of tart, sweet, and buttery flavors. These pancakes are not just a treat for your taste buds but also a feast for your eyes with their vibrant colors and attractive presentation. Ideal for a special breakfast or brunch, they are surprisingly easy to make and are sure to impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients List for Pineapple Upside Down Pancakes
To get started with Pineapple Upside Down Pancakes, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups Bisquick mix
- 1 cup milk
- 2 eggs
- 1 (20-ounce) can of pineapple slices
- 8-10 maraschino cherries (stems removed)
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- Butter or non-stick cooking spray (for greasing the pan)
- Maple syrup (for serving)
- Whipped topping (optional)
These ingredients are easily available at any grocery store, making it convenient to whip up these pancakes any day of the week.
Substitutions and Variations
If you’re looking to customize your Pineapple Upside Down Pancakes or need to make some substitutions based on dietary preferences or ingredient availability, here are some ideas:
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free pancake mix instead of Bisquick.
- Vegan Version: Substitute the milk with almond milk or soy milk and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) in place of the eggs.
- Fresh Pineapple: If you prefer fresh over canned, you can use fresh pineapple slices. Just ensure they are sliced thinly to cook properly.
- Healthier Sweeteners: Replace the brown sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like Stevia.
- Different Fruits: Experiment with other fruits like peaches or mangoes for a unique twist.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Now, let’s dive into the detailed steps to make these delicious Pineapple Upside Down Pancakes.

How to Cook Pineapple Upside Down Pancakes: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Preheat the Skillet: Begin by preheating a large skillet over medium-low heat. This ensures even cooking of the pancakes.
- Prepare the Pineapples: Drain the canned pineapple slices thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial to prevent excess moisture from affecting the pancake batter.
- Mix the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the Bisquick mix, milk, and eggs until smooth. Make sure there are no lumps for a consistent batter.
- Grease the Skillet: Once the skillet is hot, grease it with a little butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent the pancakes from sticking.
- Cook the Pancakes: Pour about ¼ cup of pancake batter into the skillet for each pancake. Let it cook for about 2 minutes or until bubbles start to form on the surface.
- Add Pineapple and Cherry: Place a pineapple slice in the center of each pancake and add a maraschino cherry in the middle of the pineapple. Sprinkle a little brown sugar over the top.
- Flip and Cook: Carefully flip the pancakes using a spatula and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the other side is golden brown and the pancake is cooked through.
- Repeat: Continue this process with the remaining batter, ensuring each pancake is evenly cooked and has a pineapple slice and cherry.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with a simple recipe, there are common mistakes that can hinder your success. Here’s how to avoid them:
- Thick Batter: Ensure your batter is not too thick by following the instructions on the Bisquick box or adjusting the consistency if making homemade batter.
- Wet Pineapples: Make sure the pineapple slices are well-drained and patted dry to prevent excess moisture.
- High Heat: Avoid cooking the pancakes on high heat, as this can cause the outside to burn while the inside remains uncooked.
- Overcrowding: Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook a few pancakes at a time for better control.
Serving and Presentation Tips
To make your Pineapple Upside Down Pancakes even more appealing, consider these serving and presentation ideas.
How to Serve Pineapple Upside Down Pancakes
- With Maple Syrup: Drizzle warm maple syrup over the pancakes for added sweetness.
- With Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream on top adds a creamy texture and enhances the overall flavor.
- With Fresh Fruit: Serve with a side of fresh fruit like berries or banana slices for a colorful and nutritious addition.
Presentation Ideas for Pineapple Upside Down Pancakes
- Stack Them Up: Create a stack of pancakes, layering them with additional pineapple slices and cherries for a dramatic effect.
- Use a Fancy Plate: Serve the pancakes on a decorative plate to make the meal feel more special.
- Garnish with Mint: Add a sprig of fresh mint for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Pineapple Upside Down Pancakes Recipe Tips
- Consistency is Key: Ensure your batter is the right consistency – not too thick or too runny – for the perfect pancake texture.
- Patience with Heat: Cook the pancakes on medium-low heat for even cooking and to prevent burning.
- Even Slices: Use uniformly thick pineapple slices to ensure they cook evenly with the pancake batter.
- Pre-Grease the Pan: Always grease the skillet before adding the batter to prevent sticking and make flipping easier.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make the batter ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the batter a few hours ahead and keep it in the refrigerator. Stir well before using.
Q: What if I don’t have Bisquick?
A: You can make your own pancake mix by combining 2 cups flour, 2 tablespoons sugar, 1 tablespoon baking powder, and ½ teaspoon salt. Mix with the milk and eggs as directed.
Q: How do I store leftover pancakes?
A: Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
Q: Can I freeze Pineapple Upside Down Pancakes?
A: Yes, allow the pancakes to cool completely, then layer them between sheets of parchment paper and freeze in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the toaster or oven.
Q: What if I don’t like cherries?
A: You can skip the cherries or replace them with another fruit like a slice of banana or a strawberry.
Conclusion
Pineapple Upside Down Pancakes are a delicious and visually stunning breakfast option that combines the best elements of pancakes and pineapple upside down cake. With the right ingredients, a few simple steps, and some helpful tips, you can easily create this delightful dish at home. Whether you're cooking for a special occasion or just want to treat yourself to something extraordinary, these pancakes are sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, follow our guide, and enjoy a stack of these tropical-flavored pancakes that are as fun to make as they are to eat. Happy cooking!
PrintPineapple Upside Down Pancakes Recipe
Indulge in the tropical flavors of Pineapple Upside Down Pancakes, featuring Bisquick mix, juicy pineapple slices, and maraschino cherries. This easy recipe combines classic pancake batter with a sweet, caramelized fruit topping, perfect for breakfast or brunch. Enjoy a delightful twist on traditional pancakes that will impress your family and friends.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 cups Bisquick mix
- 1 cup milk
- 2 eggs
- 1 (20-ounce) can of pineapple slices
- 8-10 maraschino cherries (stems removed)
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- Butter or non-stick cooking spray (for greasing the pan)
- Maple syrup (for serving)
- Whipped topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat a griddle or large skillet over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, combine Bisquick mix, milk, and eggs, whisking until smooth.
- Drain pineapple slices and reserve juice. Pat pineapple slices dry with paper towels.
- Sprinkle a small amount of brown sugar in the center of the griddle/skillet and place a pineapple slice on top. Add a maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple slice.
- Pour about ¼ cup of pancake batter over the pineapple slice, spreading gently to cover.
- Cook until bubbles form on the surface and edges look set, about 2-3 minutes. Flip carefully and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Repeat with remaining ingredients.
- Serve warm with maple syrup and whipped topping if desired.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can use the reserved pineapple juice instead of milk in the batter.
- Ensure the pineapple slices are dry to prevent the pancakes from becoming soggy.
- Adjust the amount of brown sugar to your taste preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pancake
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 520mg
Leave a Reply