Pineapple Upside-Down Sugar Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines nostalgia with a tropical twist, these Pineapple Upside-Down Sugar Cookies are just the thing! They bring back memories of sunny days and sweet gatherings, making them perfect for everything from family get-togethers to cozy weeknight snacks. The soft, chewy cookie base topped with caramelized pineapple and cherries is simply irresistible. Trust me; once you try them, you’ll want to make them again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Family-Friendly Delight: Kids and adults alike will love the fun flavors and textures of these cookies!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday party or a casual get-together, these cookies are sure to impress.
• Make Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the dough in advance and bake them fresh when needed. Perfect for busy schedules!
• Deliciously Unique: The combination of pineapple and cherry gives these sugar cookies a refreshing twist that stands out from ordinary desserts.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up these delicious Pineapple Upside-Down Sugar Cookies, you’ll only need a few simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry! Here’s what you need:

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

Variations

One of the best parts about these Pineapple Upside-Down Sugar Cookies is how flexible they are! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Change the Fruit: Try using peaches or mangoes instead of pineapple for a different fruity flavor.
• Make Them Mini: Use a mini muffin tin for bite-sized treats that are great for parties.
• Use Coconut: Sprinkle shredded coconut on top before baking for an added tropical flair.

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. This step ensures that your cookies come out easily without sticking!

Step 2: Create the Caramel Base

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. This forms a sweet caramel layer that adds flavor and moisture to your cookies.

Step 3: Add the Pineapple and Cherry

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. This not only looks beautiful but also provides that classic upside-down cake flavor!

Step 4: Make the Sugar Cookie Dough

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the dough, giving your cookies that nice soft texture we all love.

Step 5: Mix in Egg and Vanilla

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. The egg acts as a binder while adding richness; vanilla enhances all those delightful flavors.

Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisking ensures even distribution of ingredients which is key for consistent cookie texture.

Step 7: Form the Cookie Dough

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix; we want tender cookies!

Step 8: Assemble Your 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 it so it evenly covers everything. This helps create an even bake across your cookies.

Step 9: Bake

Bake your cookies for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them; overbaking can lead to dry cookies!

Step 10: Cool Down

Let the cookies cool in the muffin tin for about 5 minutes before carefully flipping it over onto a parchment-lined surface or cooling rack. This allows those delicious toppings to settle nicely on top.

Step 11: Serve

Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy every bite as you savor that caramelized pineapple topping with your soft sugar cookie base!

Pro Tips for Making Pineapple Upside-Down Sugar Cookies

Making these cookies is a breeze, but a few pro tips can elevate your baking game!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Starting with softened butter and room temperature egg helps create a smoother dough and ensures even mixing, resulting in tender cookies.

• Don’t skip the cooling time: Letting the cookies cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before flipping helps set the toppings and prevents them from falling apart.

• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to add nuts or swap cherries with other fruits like blueberries or diced strawberries. This adds a fun twist and personal touch to your cookies!

• Check for doneness: Keep an eye on the cookies during baking; they should be lightly golden. Overbaking can lead to dry cookies, while underbaking may result in doughy centers.

• Store properly: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps them soft and chewy for days!

How to Serve Pineapple Upside-Down Sugar Cookies

These delightful Pineapple Upside-Down Sugar Cookies not only taste amazing but also look appealing on any dessert table. Here are some ideas to present this sweet treat beautifully!

Garnishes

• Coconut flakes: Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes over the top for a tropical flair that complements the pineapple perfectly.
• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness without overpowering the flavors.
• Mint leaves: A few fresh mint leaves can bring color and freshness to the presentation, making it look even more inviting.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy texture pairs wonderfully with the warm cookies, creating a delightful contrast that enhances the overall experience.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad can balance the sweetness of the cookies with its bright, tangy flavors—plus, it’s colorful!
• Whipped coconut cream: A dairy-free whipped coconut cream adds richness without being heavy, making it an excellent accompaniment to these cookies.
• Coffee or tea: Serve with a cup of your favorite coffee or herbal tea for a cozy afternoon treat that warms up any gathering.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Pineapple Upside-Down Sugar Cookies will shine at any occasion! Enjoy baking and sharing these delicious treats!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pineapple Upside-Down Sugar Cookies are not only delightful but also perfect for meal prep! You can make them in advance and store them for later enjoyment. Here’s how to handle leftovers and ensure they stay delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you want to maintain their freshness longer, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to a week.

Freezing

• Allow the cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen cookies, let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
• For a warm treat, microwave each cookie for about 10-15 seconds or place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Have questions about making these delicious cookies? You’re in the right place!

Can I make Pineapple Upside-Down Sugar Cookies without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute the egg with a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water), or use applesauce (1/4 cup per egg).

How do I store Pineapple Upside-Down Sugar Cookies?

Store your leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate them for up to a week.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Absolutely! Fresh pineapple can be used, just ensure it’s properly peeled and diced into small pieces that will fit nicely on top of your cookies.

What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?

If your dough is too sticky, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes. This will make it easier to handle when pressing into the muffin cups.

Final Thoughts

These Pineapple Upside-Down Sugar Cookies are not just any dessert; they bring together the sweet, tropical flavor of pineapple with a buttery sugar cookie base that’s simply irresistible. I hope you have as much fun making these as you will eating them! Share them with family and friends, or enjoy them all by yourself—they’re sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face. Happy baking!