Pineapple Upside Down Cake Shot (Easy Recipe!)

Indulge in a delightful blast from the past with our easy recipe for the Pineapple Upside Down Cake Shot.

I’m your host, KAD…

I’m your host, KAD, and I’ve been slinging drinks and navigating the world of hospitality for over two decades. I’ve perfected my bartending skills, experimented with countless flavour combinations, and learned a thing or two about how to keep the party going behind the bar.

Whether you’re a seasoned bartender like me just looking for some fresh inspiration or a complete beginner who is eager to whip up impressive cocktails at home, Shake, Sip, Serve is here to be your guide. In the below blog, I’ll be sharing my knowledge and experience on everything from classic cocktails and innovative new creations to essential bartending techniques and industry secrets.

I’ll also be offering tips on stocking your home bar, mastering the art of presentation, and creating a memorable experience for your guests. So, grab your shaker, dust off your favourite glassware, and get ready to embark on a delicious journey into the world of bartending!

Let’s Shake, Sip, and Serve up something amazing together.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

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The Story Behind the Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Shot

Much like its namesake dessert, the Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Shot is playful, comforting, and bursting with tropical flavour. While its origins are fuzzy, it likely emerged in the 1990s or early 2000s — a time when bartenders were having fun recreating desserts in cocktail form.

Today, this shot is a party favourite. It’s colourful, nostalgic, and deliciously simple to make.

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Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Shot Recipe (AU Measurements)

Ingredients (per shot):

• 30ml vanilla vodka

• 30ml pineapple juice

• Dash grenadine

• Maraschino cherry (optional garnish)

Method:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.

2. Add vanilla vodka + pineapple juice.

3. Shake for 10–15 seconds until chilled.

4. Strain into a shot glass.

5. Add grenadine by slowly pouring down the side (it sinks, creating the “upside-down” look).

6. Garnish with a cherry.

⚠️ RSA Note: Sweet shots like this are easy to drink quickly. Always serve mindfully, especially at parties.

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Flavour Profile

• Vanilla vodka: Soft, creamy, cake-like flavour.

• Pineapple juice: Bright tropical sweetness.

• Grenadine: Sweet-tart cherry finish + layered red colour.

• Cherry garnish: Nostalgic nod to the original dessert.

Together, it’s dessert in a glass — sweet, fruity, creamy, and fun.

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When to Serve the Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Shot

• Dessert-themed parties: Perfect welcome shot.

• Holiday gatherings: Pairs beautifully with festive spreads.

• Bachelorettes & birthdays: A cheeky crowd-pleaser.

• Casual nights in: Easy to shake up without fuss.

For another dessert-inspired crowd favourite, check out my Lemon Meringue Pie Shot — equally sweet but with a citrusy zing.

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Variations

• Cherry Vodka Version: Swap vanilla vodka for cherry vodka for a fruitier punch.

• Coconut Twist: Add 15ml coconut rum for tropical flair.

• Creamy Cake: Add a splash of cream or coconut milk for richness.

• Layered Presentation: Start with grenadine, carefully layer pineapple juice, then float vodka on top.

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Pro Tips for the Perfect Pour

• Chill ingredients first: Cold vodka + juice = smoother shot.

• Fresh juice makes a difference: Fresh-pressed pineapple elevates the flavour.

• Grenadine technique: Use the back of a spoon for precision layering.

• Cherry garnish: Adds a finishing pop of colour + flavour.

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Food Pairings

Pair with:

• Fruit platters: Pineapple, mango, strawberries.

• Coconut desserts: Lamingtons or coconut macaroons.

• Cheesecake bites: Sweet + creamy pairing.

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The Whimsical Spirit of Dessert-Inspired Shots

The Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Shot is more than just a drink — it’s a playful reminder that cocktails can be nostalgic, fun, and indulgent. Much like the Hurricane Cocktail, it delivers a burst of colour and flavour that energises any celebration.

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The Final Sip

The Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Shot is colourful, nostalgic, and effortlessly fun. With its vanilla cake notes, pineapple brightness, and cherry finish, it’s a recipe that never fails to bring smiles.

So next time you want to surprise guests with something sweet, whip up a round of these dessert-inspired shots — guaranteed to brighten the night.

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The bartending community…

The bartending community is a vibrant and supportive one, and I’m excited to build that community here on Shake, Sip, Serve.

I’d love to hear your thoughts, questions, and experiences in the comments below.
What are you shaking up these days?
What topics would you like to see covered in future posts?

Let’s connect and continue the conversation!

Liquor & Gaming NSW: This website provides information on liquor licensing, responsible service of alcohol (RSA) training, and regulations for serving alcohol in NSW. It’s essential for anyone working in the hospitality industry in NSW. You can find it here: Liquor & Gaming NSW

 

 

 

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    Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.