1-First step: Heat the oven and prepare the pan Start by preheating your oven to 350 F. Lightly grease your baking dish if needed, then set it aside. A properly prepared pan helps the cake release cleanly after baking, which matters even more with an upside down cake.

2-Second step: Make the buttery brown sugar base Pour the 1/4 cup melted butter into the bottom of the pan and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the 1 cup brown sugar over the butter so the two ingredients cover the base. This layer will melt together in the oven and create that classic sticky topping.

3-Third step: Arrange the pineapple and cherries Open the 1 can (20 ounces) sliced pineapple and drain it well. Place the slices in a single layer over the brown sugar mixture. Set a maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple ring, using a total of 18 maraschino cherries. If you have extra pineapple juice left, you can save it for another recipe or a drink later.

4-Fourth step: Mix the cake batter In a large mixing bowl, combine the 1 box (15.25 ounces) yellow cake mix, 3 eggs, and 1/2 cup vegetable oil. Stir until the batter is smooth and no dry spots remain. The batter will be thick, and that is exactly what you want for this recipe. If the box directions call for water, do not add it unless your specific cake mix brand needs it. For this recipe, the ingredients listed here are the key ones to use.

5-Fifth step: Spread the batter over the fruit Spoon the batter gently over the pineapple and cherries. Use a spatula to spread it to the edges of the pan without disturbing the fruit layer too much. Try to cover the fruit evenly so the cake bakes into a neat, even layer.

6-Sixth step: Bake until golden Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs. The top should look set and lightly golden. If the center still looks wet, give it a few more minutes and check again.

7-Seventh step: Let it rest before flipping Once the cake comes out of the oven, let it rest in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes. This short cooling time helps the topping settle so the fruit stays in place when you invert the cake. Do not wait too long, or the caramelized topping may stick to the pan.

8-Final step: Invert and serve Place a serving platter over the pan, then carefully flip the cake upside down in one smooth motion. Lift the pan slowly and let the topping settle onto the cake. If any cherries or pineapple pieces shift, gently place them back where they belong. Slice and serve warm for the best flavor.