National Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Day
April 20, Sunday
History of the Holiday
The exact origin of National Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Day is not well documented, but the cake itself became popular in the 1920s when canned pineapple became widely available. The Hawaiian Pineapple Company (later known as Dole) even held a recipe contest in 1926 that helped popularize the dessert across the country.
How People Celebrate
People across the U.S. observe the day in a variety of sweet and creative ways, such as:
- Baking a homemade pineapple upside-down cake
- Hosting cake-sharing parties or dessert potlucks
- Trying unique twists on the classic recipe, such as cupcakes or skillet versions
- Sharing cake photos and recipes on social media using hashtags like #PineappleUpsideDownCakeDay
Fun Facts
- The upside-down cake method was originally used with a variety of fruits, but canned pineapple helped make the version we know today a staple.
- The cake is often baked in a cast iron skillet or round cake pan, allowing the toppings to caramelize beautifully.
- Pineapple upside-down cake is a beloved dessert in retro cookbooks and is often associated with nostalgia and classic American baking.
Why Celebrate?
Food holidays like this one give people a reason to enjoy nostalgic treats, embrace culinary creativity, and share baked goods with family and friends. National Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Day is also a chance to celebrate tropical flavors and the history of American home baking.