Pineapple Upside-Down Sugar Cookies

Delight in these Pineapple Upside-Down Sugar Cookies, a unique twist on a classic favorite. Perfect for gatherings or a sweet treat anytime, these cookies feature a soft and chewy sugar cookie base topped with luscious caramelized pineapple and cherries. The blend of flavors makes them irresistible and memorable!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of buttery sugar cookies and caramelized pineapple creates a sweet treat that’s hard to resist.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile Treat: Ideal for parties, potlucks, or simply enjoying at home, these cookies fit any occasion.
• Unique Presentation: The muffin tin shape adds a fun twist, making each cookie look delightful and inviting.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on making your Pineapple Upside-Down Sugar Cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready makes the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Muffin tin
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin tin: Ensures even baking and helps create the perfect shape for your cookies.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the best flavor and texture.
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for mixing ingredients thoroughly and scraping down the sides of bowls.

Ingredients

For the Topping:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 can (20 oz) pineapple slices, drained and cut into small pieces
• Maraschino cherries, halved

For the Sugar Cookies:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt

How to Make Pineapple Upside-Down Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Topping

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease or line a muffin tin with parchment rounds. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter and brown sugar until combined. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of this mixture into the bottom of each muffin cup. Place a few small pieces of pineapple on top of the brown sugar mixture, then press half of a maraschino cherry in the center of each one.

Step 2: Make the Sugar Cookie Dough

In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Step 3: Assemble the Cookies

Take about 1 1/2 tablespoons of cookie dough and press it over the pineapple and cherry topping in each muffin cup. Gently flatten the dough so it evenly covers the topping.

Step 4: Bake

Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Let the cookies cool in the muffin tin for 5 minutes before carefully flipping the tin over onto a parchment-lined surface or cooling rack. Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your delightful Pineapple Upside-Down Sugar Cookies!

How to Serve Pineapple Upside-Down Sugar Cookies

These delightful Pineapple Upside-Down Sugar Cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or just enjoying a sweet treat at home, consider these serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.

Pair with Fresh Fruit

• Add a side of sliced fresh fruit like strawberries or kiwi for a refreshing contrast to the sweet cookies.

Serve with Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream can enhance the flavors and add a creamy texture that complements the cookies well.

Enjoy with Ice Cream

• Pair these cookies with vanilla or coconut ice cream for a delicious dessert that combines warm and cold sensations.

Accompany with Coffee or Tea

• A hot cup of coffee or tea can balance the sweetness of the cookies, making it an ideal afternoon snack.

Create Dessert Sandwiches

• Use two cookies with a scoop of ice cream in between to create fun dessert sandwiches for kids and adults alike.

Decorate with Toasted Coconut

• Sprinkle some toasted coconut on top of the cookies for added texture and flavor, turning them into an island-inspired treat.

How to Perfect Pineapple Upside-Down Sugar Cookies

Perfecting your Pineapple Upside-Down Sugar Cookies is easy with a few helpful tips. Follow these guidelines to ensure each batch is scrumptious and visually appealing.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure butter and egg are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies; mix until just combined for softness.
• Chill the dough: If time allows, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking; this helps maintain shape.
• Rotate baking trays: Halfway through baking, rotate your muffin tin to ensure even cooking for all cookies.
• Check doneness carefully: Keep an eye on cookies as they bake; they should be lightly golden, not dark brown.
• Cool completely before storing: Let cookies cool entirely before placing in an airtight container to maintain softness.

Best Side Dishes for Pineapple Upside-Down Sugar Cookies

If you’re looking to round out your dessert table or simply enjoy these cookies alongside something tasty, consider these complementary side dishes.

1. Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Coconut Rice Pudding: Creamy rice pudding flavored with coconut pairs beautifully with the tropical notes of pineapple.
3. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over each cookie for an extra decadent touch.
4. Chocolate Fondue: Set up a chocolate fondue station where guests can dip their cookies for a rich experience.
5. Berry Compote: Serve a tart berry compote on the side to cut through the sweetness of the cookie.
6. Lemon Sorbet: A light lemon sorbet can cleanse the palate and provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the cookies.
7. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can offer a savory balance to the sugary treats.
8. Spiced Nuts: Roasted spiced nuts add crunch and flavor diversity, enhancing your overall dessert spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pineapple Upside-Down Sugar Cookies, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final outcome. Here are some pitfalls to watch for.

• Boldly skip ingredient prep: Failing to properly prepare your ingredients can lead to uneven texture and flavor. Always measure and chop your ingredients before starting to ensure smooth mixing.
• Boldly ignore chilling dough: Not chilling the dough can result in spreading during baking. If time allows, chill your cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
• Boldly overlook baking time: Overbaking or underbaking can ruin the cookies. Keep an eye on them and test for doneness at the lower end of the baking time range.
• Boldly use cold butter: Using cold butter instead of softened butter will affect the creaminess of your cookie mixture. Always ensure your butter is softened for optimal results.
• Boldly forget about cooling: Trying to remove cookies from the tin too soon can cause them to break apart. Allow them to cool for a few minutes in the tin before transferring them.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Pineapple Upside-Down Sugar Cookies

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Pineapple Upside-Down Sugar Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 5-10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10 seconds, checking warmth before adding more time.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Pineapple Upside-Down Sugar Cookies that might help you out!

Can I substitute other fruits in Pineapple Upside-Down Sugar Cookies?

Yes! You can use fruits like peaches or cherries as toppings instead of pineapple for different flavors.

How do I know when my cookies are done?

The edges will appear lightly golden, and the center should look set but slightly soft.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

You can replace butter with plant-based alternatives and use a flax egg instead of a regular egg.

What is the best way to store leftover cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them if you prefer them chilled.

Final Thoughts

These Pineapple Upside-Down Sugar Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the flavors of caramelized fruit with soft, buttery cookies. Their versatility makes them perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual snack or a festive gathering. Feel free to customize with your favorite fruits or add nuts for extra crunch!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Pineapple Upside-Down Sugar Cookies

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 cookies 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful taste of Pineapple Upside-Down Sugar Cookies, a creative twist on a beloved classic. These cookies feature a soft and chewy sugar cookie base topped with caramelized pineapple and vibrant cherries, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a sweet snack at home, these cookies are sure to impress with their unique presentation and irresistible flavor combination. Easy to make and visually appealing, they will quickly become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.

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Ingredients

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• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 can (20 oz) pineapple slices, drained and cut into small pieces
• Maraschino cherries, halved
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a muffin tin with parchment.
2. In a small bowl, mix melted butter and brown sugar. Spoon into each muffin cup, then add pineapple pieces and half cherries.
3. In a large bowl, cream softened butter and granulated sugar until fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla.
4. In another bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt; gradually combine with wet ingredients to form dough.
5. Press about 1 1/2 tablespoons of dough over the topping in each muffin cup.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
7. Cool for 5 minutes before flipping onto a cooling rack.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie (40g)
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 85mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 25mg