If you love the tropical, nostalgic flavors of a classic upside down cake and crave a bite-sized treat that’s wonderfully creamy, cheerful, and downright irresistible, Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge is about to become your new obsession. This dreamy fudge takes all the best parts of the beloved cake — tangy pineapple, sweet maraschino cherries, and a hint of buttery vanilla cake — and transforms them into melt-in-your-mouth squares of pure sunshine. Whether you’re sharing them at a potluck or stashing them away for a secret midnight snack, this creation will charm everyone lucky enough to taste it.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge is just how simple the ingredients list is. Every item has a purpose, creating that familiar cake flavor, lush texture, and summer-hued colors all in one easy treat.

White chocolate chips: The creamy base that gives the fudge its signature rich, smooth texture.
Sweetened condensed milk: Adds unmistakable fudgy sweetness and helps bind everything together.
Unsalted butter: Brings buttery depth and richness, reminiscent of traditional cake batter.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavors and mimics that classic vanilla cake aroma.
Almond extract: A secret touch that gives the fudge its unique, aromatic twist.
Crushed pineapple, well-drained: Provides juicy tang and those iconic pineapple bits for flavor and texture.
Maraschino cherries, chopped and patted dry: Little pops of color and sweetness, just like the cake’s iconic “cherry on top.”
Yellow cake mix (dry): Adds the nostalgic vanilla cake flavor—which is the true heart of this fudge.
Pinch of salt: Balances out the sweetness for a perfectly rounded bite.

How to Make Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge

Step 1: Line the Pan

Start by lining an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, making sure the paper overhangs on all sides for easy removal later. This quick prep step will make cutting and serving your Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge a total breeze.

Step 2: Melt the Base

In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and unsalted butter. Stir constantly and patiently until the mixture is fully melted, silky, and gorgeous. The creamy, billowy base is what gives this fudge its true indulgence factor.

Step 3: Mix in Flavors

Take the saucepan off the heat and quickly stir in the vanilla extract, almond extract, dry yellow cake mix, and a pinch of salt. This is when that heady cake aroma starts to bloom and the flavors mingle for the classic upside down cake experience, only better!

Step 4: Add Fruit

Gently fold in the well-drained crushed pineapple and the chopped, patted-dry maraschino cherries. Make sure every piece is well incorporated so you get a bit of fruity brightness in every single bite of your Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge.

Step 5: Set and Chill

Pour the mixture into your prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula, making sure those jewel-toned cherries peek through. Pop the pan into the refrigerator and let it chill for at least four hours—or until the fudge is completely firm and sliceable.

Step 6: Slice and Enjoy

Once set, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper flaps. Use a sharp, clean knife to cut it into 36 neat squares. For the prettiest presentation, you can garnish each square with an extra cherry or a tiny pineapple tidbit just before serving.

How to Serve Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge

Garnishes

Take your fudge from “yum” to “wow” with simple garnishes. A candied cherry half or a tiny wedge of pineapple placed on each square brings out the dessert’s playful side, while a light dusting of confectioners’ sugar adds a festive, bakery-style touch.

Side Dishes

Pair your Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream, or serve it alongside a fresh fruit platter. Tropical fruits like mango or kiwi echo the fudge’s bright flavors and round out your dessert spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the fudge squares on a colorful platter or cake stand to really show off their cheery pineapple-and-cherry appeal. For parties, place the squares in mini cupcake liners and tuck them into a decorative box for a delightful edible gift. You can even skewer them on small sticks for a whimsical, lollipop-inspired treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge fresh and creamy, store the squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Layer parchment or wax paper between the pieces so they don’t stick together. They’ll stay delicious for up to a week—if they last that long!

Freezing

Want to stash some fudge for later? No problem! Lay the squares in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag with layers of parchment between pieces. Frozen, the fudge keeps beautifully for up to three months—just thaw in the fridge before enjoying.

Reheating

This fudge is best enjoyed chilled or at cool room temperature, but if you prefer a slightly softer texture, let a few squares sit out at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving, as it can melt the chocolate and compromise the fudge’s luscious texture.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

You can, but be sure to chop it finely and drain it extremely well—canned pineapple is less watery, which is key for keeping your fudge firm and creamy.

Can I make Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge without the cherries?

Absolutely! If cherries aren’t your thing, simply leave them out or swap in extra pineapple or even diced dried apricots for a different fruity twist.

Is there a substitute for white chocolate chips?

White chocolate chips make the smoothest fudge base, but in a pinch, you can use chopped white chocolate bars—just be sure to measure by weight for best results.

Do I need to bake the cake mix?

Since the fudge is not baked, it’s best to use a heat-treated or pasteurized dry cake mix to ensure food safety. Most major brands note this on the box, but a quick toast in the oven before using is a simple extra step if you prefer.

Does Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge travel well?

It does! Because it holds its shape so nicely when chilled, it’s a perfect pick for picnics, parties, or potlucks. Just be sure to pack the pieces in a sturdy, cool container if heading out on a warm day.

Final Thoughts

Making a batch of Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge is like capturing summer in a bite—bright, nostalgic, and unexpectedly delightful from the very first square. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if this little treat quickly becomes a new favorite at every gathering!

Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge Recipe

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4.8 from 7 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 36 small squares 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the delightful combination of pineapple upside-down cake flavors and creamy fudge with this easy-to-make recipe. Perfect for those who love the tropical twist in their desserts!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Fudge:

2 cups white chocolate chips
1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon almond extract
1/2 cup crushed pineapple, well-drained
1/4 cup maraschino cherries, chopped and patted dry
1/4 cup yellow cake mix (dry)
pinch of salt

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Instructions

Prepare the Fudge Base: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. In a saucepan over low heat, melt white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter, stirring until smooth.
Mix in Flavors: Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, almond extract, dry cake mix, and salt until well combined.
Add Fruits: Fold in crushed pineapple and chopped maraschino cherries.
Set and Serve: Pour the mixture into the prepared pan, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, cut into squares, and refrigerate until serving.