If you adore the nostalgic charm of classic desserts with a playful twist, Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge is about to become your new favorite treat. This irresistible confection takes all the tropical sweetness of the beloved cake—think juicy pineapple, vibrant cherries, and a buttery vanilla backdrop—and transforms it into decadent, creamy fudge that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re looking to wow your family at a summer picnic or simply satisfy a craving for something unique, this dessert brings together sunshine flavors and a velvety texture in every bite.

Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge is how each ingredient serves a purpose, building layers of flavor and texture that capture everything you love about the original cake. From luxurious white chocolate to tart cherries, every element matters!

Unsalted butter (1/2 cup): Adds luscious richness and helps achieve that classic fudge melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
Granulated sugar (2 cups): Brings necessary sweetness and structure to the fudge base.
Heavy cream (3/4 cup): Makes the fudge ultra-creamy and luscious.
Crushed pineapple, drained (1/2 cup): Infuses juicy fruitiness and summery flavor—be sure to blot well to avoid excess moisture.
Instant vanilla pudding mix, 3.4 oz package: Delivers classic cake flavor and helps the fudge set up perfectly.
White chocolate chips (2 1/2 cups): The secret to a silky-smooth fudge base and sweet, creamy finish.
Marshmallow crème, 7 oz jar: Gives body, soft texture, and helps the fudge hold together beautifully.
Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): Boosts all those bakery-shop vanilla notes.
Maraschino cherries, halved (8–10): The signature garnish—sweet, juicy, and eye-catching.
Crushed graham crackers or vanilla wafer crumbs (1/2 cup): Provides a nostalgic “cake” flavor and a little texture for the base.

How to Make Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Crust

Start by lining your 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper and lightly greasing it—this will make removing the fudge a breeze later on. Sprinkle a generous, even layer of crushed graham crackers or vanilla wafer crumbs across the bottom to create that unmistakable cake-inspired base, then set this aside. It’s your secret weapon for extra flavor and a touch of crunch.

Step 2: Make the Fudge Mixture

Melt the unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. As soon as it’s melted and smelling wonderful, whisk in the sugar, heavy cream, and instant vanilla pudding mix. Stir this mixture constantly—you’re looking for a smooth, glossy blend. Bring to a gentle boil and continue boiling, stirring the whole time, for about 4 to 5 minutes. You’ll notice it thickening up and taking on a lovely golden hue reminiscent of caramelizing pineapple.

Step 3: Add the Good Stuff

Take the saucepan off the heat and immediately add your white chocolate chips, marshmallow crème, vanilla extract, and drained, blotted crushed pineapple. Stir everything together until luxuriously smooth and the white chocolate is totally melted. This is where the magic happens—the smell alone will have you grinning!

Step 4: Assemble and Chill

Pour the fudge mixture evenly over your crumb-lined pan, using a spatula to coax it into every corner. Next, take your halved maraschino cherries and gently press them into the top, cut side down. Not only does this lock in the upside-down cake look, but it also gives you jewel-like pops of color. Let the fudge cool to room temperature before slipping it into the fridge to firm up for at least 3 hours. Patience is tough, but oh-so-worth it.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

Once the Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge is fully set, lift it from the pan using the parchment, cut into squares, and get ready to impress. Every bite captures nostalgia and delight—creamy, fruity, and just a bit chewy from the crumb base.

How to Serve Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge

Garnishes

A classic garnish for this fudge is a little sprinkle of extra graham cracker crumbs before serving, or even a tiny wedge of pineapple on each square for an extra-special look. If you want to go all out, a dollop of freshly whipped cream on the side will give it that true cake-and-ice-cream feel.

Side Dishes

Pair this fudge with something light and fresh to balance the sweet richness—think a bowl of mixed berries or a simple fruit salad. If you’re serving it for a party, offer alongside a platter of salty snacks like nuts or pretzels for that irresistible sweet-and-salty combo.

Creative Ways to Present

For a standout dessert table, arrange the fudge squares on a tiered cake stand or line them up in rainbow order thanks to the jewel-like cherries. For gifting, tuck squares into cupcake liners and box up with a cheerful note—you’ll spread sunshine with Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge wherever you go!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once you’ve cut your fudge into squares, transfer any extras to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. The fudge will stay fresh and creamy for up to five days, making it a perfect make-ahead treat for busy weeks or entertaining.

Freezing

If you’d like to prepare a batch ahead of time, Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge freezes surprisingly well! Just layer the squares with parchment paper in an airtight container and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

Reheating

Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge is at its best served chilled or at room temperature. If it’s been in the freezer, let it thaw slowly in the fridge rather than microwaving—this preserves its creamy texture and prevents any melting mishaps.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Absolutely! Just be sure to finely chop and drain the fresh pineapple very well to prevent any extra moisture from affecting the fudge’s texture. A paper towel blot really helps here.

What if I don’t have marshmallow crème?

Marshmallow crème gives this fudge its signature smoothness, but in a pinch, you can use mini marshmallows (about two cups). Melt them in with your hot fudge mixture until no lumps remain.

How do I prevent the fudge from getting grainy?

Continuous stirring while boiling is key. Make sure all the sugar dissolves fully before adding the chocolate and marshmallow crème, and avoid overcooking—five minutes is plenty for a silky finish.

Can I make this recipe nut-free or gluten-free?

Yes! For a nut-free version, just use cookies or graham crackers without any nut ingredients. To make it gluten-free, opt for certified gluten-free graham crackers or wafer crumbs in the crust.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

You sure can. Simply double all ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan. The chilling and serving instructions are the same—you’ll just have twice as much delicious Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge to go around!

Final Thoughts

This Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge delivers a burst of cheerful, tropical flavor and dreamy creaminess that’s hard to resist. If you love inventive desserts that spark smiles and conversations, give this recipe a try. It’s more than a treat—it’s pure sunshine, ready to share!

Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge Recipe

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4.9 from 21 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 3 hours 25 minutes
Yield: 25 squares 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the tropical flavors of a Pineapple Upside Down Cake Fudge that combines the best of both desserts in a delightful, easy-to-make treat.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Fudge:

1/2 cup unsalted butter
2 cups granulated sugar
3/4 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
1 (3.4 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix
2 1/2 cups white chocolate chips
1 (7 oz) jar marshmallow crème
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
8–10 maraschino cherries, halved

For the Base:

1/2 cup crushed graham crackers or vanilla wafer crumbs

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Instructions

Prepare the Base: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper and grease. Sprinkle crumbs on the bottom.
Make the Fudge: In a saucepan, melt butter, add sugar, cream, pudding mix. Boil, then remove from heat. Stir in white chocolate, marshmallow crème, vanilla, pineapple until smooth.
Set the Fudge: Pour mixture into the pan, add cherry halves on top. Chill until set.
Serve: Cut into squares and enjoy!