Easy Cake Mix Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Step 1: Preheat the oven to the temperature specified on the cake mix box.

Step 2: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is smooth and bubbling.

Step 3: Pour the butter and sugar mixture into the bottom of a greased 9-inch round cake pan, spreading it evenly.

Step 4: Arrange the pineapple slices on top of the butter and sugar mixture in the cake pan. Place a maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple slice.

Step 5: Prepare the cake batter according to the instructions on the box, substituting the reserved pineapple juice for the amount of water or liquid specified.

Step 6: Pour the cake batter over the pineapple slices in the cake pan, spreading it evenly.

Step 7: Place the cake pan in the preheated oven and bake according to the instructions on the cake mix box, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.

Step 8: Once the cake is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 5 minutes.

Step 9: Carefully invert the cake onto a serving plate, allowing the pineapple slices and cherries to become the top of the cake. Leave the pan on top of the cake for a few minutes to allow the caramelized sugar to drizzle down.

Step 10: Gently lift the cake pan off the cake, ensuring all the pineapple slices and cherries stay in place. Let the cake cool completely before serving.

Step 11: Serve the cake as is or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream if desired.