If you love a sweet treat that brings a splash of tropical sunshine to your taste buds, you have to try this Pineapple Upside Down Cake Kabobs Recipe. Imagine juicy pineapple chunks caramelized with brown sugar and cinnamon, paired with tender, buttery pound cake cubes and vibrant maraschino cherries, all threaded onto skewers and grilled to golden perfection. It’s everything wonderful about the classic dessert reimagined into a fun, portable, and crowd-pleasing snack that’s perfect for backyard gatherings, camping trips, or any sunny afternoon. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between caramelized sweetness and a little smoky char, making it simply irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started is a breeze because this Pineapple Upside Down Cake Kabobs Recipe relies on just a handful of well-selected ingredients. Each component plays a vital role: fresh pineapple adds juicy brightness, pound cake brings softness and buttery richness, and the brown sugar and cinnamon create that signature caramelized coat that makes every bite pop with flavor.
- 4 cups fresh pineapple cut into chunks: Choose ripe pineapple for a sweet and juicy base that caramelizes beautifully.
- 1 – 10 oz pound cake: Opt for a dense and moist cake that will hold up well on the skewers and soak up the butter and sugar.
- 1 jar maraschino cherries: These add a gorgeous pop of color and a touch of tangy sweetness.
- 1 cup packed brown sugar: The cornerstone of that caramelized, rich glaze that coats the pineapple perfectly.
- 1 tsp cinnamon: Adds warmth and a hint of spice that deepens the flavor profile.
- ½ cup melted butter: Brings moisture and richness to the cake cubes while helping the sugar stick.
- ½ cup granulated sugar: For coating the butter-dipped cake cubes, adding a satisfying slight crunch after grilling.
- 10 roasting skewers for grilling or campfire: These sturdy skewers make assembly and grilling simple and fun.
How to Make Pineapple Upside Down Cake Kabobs Recipe
Step 1: Coat the Pineapple in Brown Sugar and Cinnamon
Start by combining the brown sugar and cinnamon in a mixing bowl—this magical blend will give the pineapple its irresistible caramelized glaze. Toss the fresh pineapple chunks until each piece is generously coated, ensuring every bite will be bursting with sweet, spicy flavor after grilling.
Step 2: Prepare the Pound Cake Cubes
Cut the pound cake into evenly sized cubes to make threading easier and ensure consistent grilling. Dip each cube into the melted butter, letting it absorb that buttery richness, then roll it lightly in granulated sugar for a sweet crunch that complements the soft inside after it’s grilled.
Step 3: Assemble the Kabobs
Now comes the fun part! Thread a maraschino cherry first, followed by a cube of pound cake, then a pineapple chunk. Repeat the pattern—cherry, cake, pineapple—on each skewer until it’s full. This layering gives a balanced mix of flavors and colors in every bite, making the kabobs look as delightful as they’ll taste.
Step 4: Grill to Golden Perfection
Place your kabobs on the grill or hold them over a campfire, turning frequently to avoid burning. Grill until the cake is golden brown and the pineapple is caramelized and fragrant—this usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. The heat intensifies the sugars, giving you that signature Pineapple Upside Down Cake Kabobs Recipe flavor with a touch of smokiness.
How to Serve Pineapple Upside Down Cake Kabobs Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your kabobs even further, consider sprinkling some toasted coconut flakes over the top for added texture and a tropical vibe. A drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of fresh mint leaves can also brighten the presentation and add fresh contrast to the caramelized flavors.
Side Dishes
This kabob recipe pairs beautifully with light sides such as a crisp green salad with citrus vinaigrette or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to complement the warm, caramelized sweetness. For a casual feast, fresh fruit platters or chilled pineapple salsa serve as refreshing companions.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your kabobs upright in a sturdy glass or a creatively decorated wooden board lined with banana leaves for an island-inspired vibe. You can also place a small ramekin of melting butter-cinnamon sauce nearby for guests to dip their kabobs, turning a simple snack into a glamorous dessert experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any kabobs left, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll keep well for up to two days, but you might want to reheat gently before serving to bring back that lovely grilled warmth.
Freezing
Freezing isn’t ideal for this recipe, as the texture of the pound cake and pineapple can suffer. However, you can prep the pineapple coated in brown sugar and the pound cake separately and freeze those components for up to one month, then assemble and grill fresh when ready to serve.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the kabobs in a toaster oven or on the grill at a low temperature to avoid burning. This will help restore their caramelized charm and soften the cake slightly without drying it out.
FAQs
Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
While fresh pineapple provides the best texture and flavor for this recipe, you can use canned pineapple chunks if you drain them well. Just know that canned fruit may not caramelize or hold up as nicely on the grill.
Are maraschino cherries necessary?
Maraschino cherries add both color and a pop of sweet tanginess integral to the classic flavor blend of this Pineapple Upside Down Cake Kabobs Recipe. You can substitute with fresh cherries if they’re in season for a fresher bite.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version, swap the pound cake for a vegan pound cake alternative, use a plant-based butter substitute, and ensure your chosen cherries are free from non-vegan additives.
What type of grill works best?
A charcoal or gas grill works perfectly, adding a subtle smoky flavor that enhances the caramelization. If you’re camping, roasting over an open campfire adds an authentic rustic touch.
Can I bake instead of grill the kabobs?
Absolutely! Bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10–12 minutes, turning halfway through until golden brown. They won’t have the same smoky flavor but will still be deliciously caramelized.
Final Thoughts
There is something genuinely joyful about the way this Pineapple Upside Down Cake Kabobs Recipe transforms a beloved classic dessert into a playful, shareable treat. Whether you’re cooking for friends around a campfire or just treating yourself on a sunny afternoon, these kabobs are guaranteed to bring smiles and a little tropical magic to your day. So grab those skewers, gather your ingredients, and get ready to make memories one caramelized bite at a time!
