A Tropical Twist on Breakfast Classics
Flip your morning routine upside down! These caramelized pineapple pancakes combine the nostalgic flavors of pineapple upside-down cake with fluffy, golden pancakes. Each bite features juicy pineapple rings, sweet cherries, and a buttery brown sugar glaze—perfect for brunch or a special weekend treat.
🌴 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Tropical vibes – Taste like vacation on a plate!
✅ Easy to make – No fancy techniques needed
✅ Kid-approved – Fun, fruity, and visually stunning
✅ Versatile – Serve for breakfast or dessert
📝 Ingredients
For the Topping:
- 4 pineapple rings (fresh or canned)
- 4 maraschino cherries
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
For the Pancakes:
- 1½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1¼ cups (300ml) milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp melted unsalted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For Serving:
- Maple syrup or whipped cream (optional)
(Pro tip: Use canned pineapple in juice—not syrup—for balanced sweetness!)
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Caramelize the Pineapple
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and brown sugar.
- Add pineapple rings, cook 2-3 mins per side until golden.
- Press a cherry into each center, then remove from heat.
2️⃣ Make the Pancake Batter
- In a bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients, stirring until just mixed (small lumps are fine!).
3️⃣ Cook the Pancakes
- Heat a non-stick skillet/griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease.
- Pour ¼ cup batter per pancake.
- Immediately place a pineapple ring (with cherry) on top while batter is wet.
4️⃣ Flip & Finish
- Cook 2-3 mins until bubbles form, then flip carefully.
- Cook 1-2 more mins until golden.
5️⃣ Serve & Enjoy!
- Stack pineapple-side up, drizzle with syrup, or add whipped cream.
💡 Pro Tips
🔹 Keep pancakes warm: Place on a baking sheet in a 200°F (95°C) oven while cooking batches.
🔹 Extra caramel flavor: Sprinkle extra brown sugar on pineapples while cooking.
🔹 Uniform thickness: Use a measuring cup to pour batter.
❓ FAQs + Variations
1. Can I use fresh pineapple?
✅ Yes! Cut into ½-inch rings and remove the core.
2. How do I prevent sticking?
➡️ Ensure your skillet is properly greased and preheated.
3. Can I make the batter ahead?
⚠️ No—baking powder loses potency over time. Mix right before cooking.
4. Gluten-free option?
🌾 Substitute with GF all-purpose flour blend.
5. No maraschino cherries?
🍒 Try fresh raspberries or cranberries for a tart contrast.
🍽 Serving Suggestions
- With coconut whipped cream for tropical flair
- Paired with crispy bacon for sweet-salty balance
- As dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream
⏳ Time & Nutrition
Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Total: 25 mins
Calories: ~280 per serving (2 pancakes) | Servings: 4
🌟 Final Thoughts
These pineapple upside-down pancakes turn breakfast into a celebratory affair. The caramelized fruit topping and fluffy interior make them unforgettable. Perfect for:
- Mother’s Day brunch
- Holiday mornings
- Impress-your-guests moments
Wake up to sunshine on your plate! ☀️🍽️
(Inspired by classic 1950s pineapple upside-down cake.)
