Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge Recipe
If you’ve been on the hunt for a dessert that’s playful, nostalgic, and wonderfully easy, let me introduce you to Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge. Imagine all the sunshiny, tropical notes of classic pineapple upside down cake, but transformed into creamy, irresistible fudge squares—complete with golden pineapple tidbits and jewel-bright cherries on top. Each little bite offers a sweet escape, and the fun part is, no oven required!
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
White Chocolate Fudge:
- 1 1/2 cups white chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup crushed pineapple (well-drained)
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice (reserved from crushed pineapple)
- 1 tablespoon instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1/2 teaspoon pineapple extract (optional)
Toppings:
- 6 maraschino cherries (halved)
- 6 small pieces of canned pineapple rings or tidbits
- 1/2 cup yellow cake mix (dry)
- Nonstick cooking spray
How to Make Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge
Step 1: Prep Your Pan
Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, letting some hang over the edges. Give it a light spritz with nonstick cooking spray—this lifesaver step makes cleanup a breeze and ensures every fudge square comes out perfectly neat.
Step 2: Melt and Mix
In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Stir constantly (don’t walk away!) until everything is luxuriously smooth and fully melted. The gentle heat is key here, so nothing scorches or separates.
Step 3: Flavor Base for Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge
Now the magic happens! Stir in the well-drained crushed pineapple, pineapple juice, dry yellow cake mix, instant vanilla pudding mix, and a splash of pineapple extract if you’re using it. Mix thoroughly, making sure all the dry powder dissolves and the mixture thickens ever so slightly. Every swirl is building that summery cake flavor you love.
Step 4: Pour and Decorate
Pour the fudge mixture into your prepared pan. Use a silicone spatula to smooth the top evenly. Here’s the fun part: carefully press halved maraschino cherries and small pieces of pineapple into the surface in any decorative pattern you like. Get creative—it’s your canvas!
Step 5: Chill and Set
Pop the pan into the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 2 hours, or until the fudge is completely firm. It’s a bit of a test in patience, but the reward is pure gold (and worth every minute)!
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Once fully set, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into 16 squares with a sharp knife, wipe the blade between cuts for the cleanest look, and serve your bright, beautiful Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge immediately—or store for later snacking!
How to Serve Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge
Garnishes
For an extra-special finish, dust your Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge with a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or add a drizzle of white chocolate once it’s set. A few extra maraschino cherries or a touch of finely shredded coconut will really make every piece pop both in flavor and on the plate.
Side Dishes
This fudge is right at home on any dessert table! Pair with light options like fresh fruit or lemon sorbet to balance out the sweetness, or serve with salted mixed nuts and black coffee for a grown-up twist that cuts the richness just right.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the fudge pieces in cupcake liners for a tidy, party-ready display, or stack them in a tall glass jar for a whimsical “candy shop” effect. Layer squares between edible flowers on a platter, or tie them up in cellophane gift bags for a delightful homemade treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any extra Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays beautifully fresh for up to five days, making it an excellent make-ahead party option or weeklong treat.
Freezing
If you want to squirrel some away, you can freeze pieces of fudge in a sealed freezer-safe container with parchment between layers. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture, and the flavor will shine just as brightly!
Reheating
Fudge is happiest served cold or at cool room temperature. If you prefer it slightly softened, let pieces sit out for 10 to 15 minutes before serving; there’s no need to heat, as warmth can change the texture.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, but make sure the pineapple is very well-drained and chopped finely. Canned pineapple tends to be sweeter and creates a slightly firmer fudge, but fresh adds a lovely tang if you’re willing to go the extra step.
Is it necessary to use pineapple extract?
Nope! The recipe tastes fantastic without it, but if you’re truly passionate about pineapple flavor, just half a teaspoon will really boost that tropical zing in your Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge.
Can I double this recipe for a crowd?
Absolutely! Simply double the ingredient amounts and use a 9×13-inch pan. The chilling time may be a bit longer, but you’ll have plenty to go around—and plenty of fans asking for the recipe.
My fudge came out too soft, what happened?
Soft fudge is usually caused by excess moisture in the pineapple. Be sure to drain it thoroughly, even pressing gently with a paper towel if you like—the drier the pineapple, the firmer your fudge will be.
What’s the best way to cut fudge cleanly?
For perfectly neat squares, run a sharp knife under hot water and wipe it dry between each cut. This little trick helps get through the creamy fudge and fruit bits with professional-looking results every time.
Final Thoughts
Your friends, family, and anyone lucky enough to snag a square are going to fall in love with this Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge. It’s the ultimate blend of nostalgic cake flavor and modern, no-bake ease—and it just might become your new signature sweet treat. Give it a try—you’ll never look at fudge the same way again!
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Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 16 pieces 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delightful fusion of classic pineapple upside-down cake flavors with creamy fudge in this easy-to-make recipe. Perfect for pineapple lovers and sweet treat enthusiasts!
Ingredients
White Chocolate Fudge:
- 1 1/2 cups white chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup crushed pineapple (well-drained)
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice (reserved from crushed pineapple)
- 1 tablespoon instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1/2 teaspoon pineapple extract (optional)
Toppings:
- 6 maraschino cherries (halved)
- 6 small pieces of canned pineapple rings or tidbits
- 1/2 cup yellow cake mix (dry)
- Nonstick cooking spray
Instructions
- Prepare Fudge Mixture: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper and lightly spray with nonstick cooking spray. Melt white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk in a saucepan over low heat. Stir in crushed pineapple, pineapple juice, dry cake mix, vanilla pudding mix, and pineapple extract until combined and slightly thickened.
- Set Fudge: Pour the fudge into the dish, smooth the top, and press halved cherries and pineapple pieces into the surface. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until set.
- Serve: Cut into squares and enjoy!
Notes
- Drain crushed pineapple well to avoid excess moisture.
- Enhance pineapple flavor with pineapple extract.
- Store fudge in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 35mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
