Name: Pineapple Upside-Down Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 42 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Topping Layer:; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1/2 cup light brown sugar; 6 canned pineapple rings (halved or trimmed to fit molds); 6 maraschino cherries; Cookie Dough:; 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup sour cream; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 2 tsp cornstarch

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Introduction to Pineapple Upside-Down Cookies

Oh, how I adore bringing a little twist to classic recipes! That’s why these Pineapple Upside-Down Cookies hold a special place in my heart. They blend the tropical sweetness of pineapple with the nostalgic charm of cookies, creating a delightful treat that will brighten anyone’s day. When life gets hectic, and you’re in need of a quick yet impressive dessert, look no further. These cookies are not only simple enough to whip up in no time, but they also promise to steal the show at any gathering. Trust me, your family and friends will be begging for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Pineapple Upside-Down Cookies

These Pineapple Upside-Down Cookies are a dream come true for busy moms and professionals alike. You can whip them up in just about 20 minutes of prep time, making it the perfect solution for those hectic days. The combination of moist cookie and fruity topping is simply irresistible. Plus, they’re a delightful way to introduce a bit of fun and flair into your dessert routine. Everyone will love them, and you won’t have to spend hours in the kitchen!

Ingredients for Pineapple Upside-Down Cookies

Gather your ingredients, and let’s get started on these delightful Pineapple Upside-Down Cookies. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Unsalted butter: We’ll need two different amounts: one for the topping layer and another for the cookie dough. Room temperature butter ensures a creamy blend with sugars.
Light brown sugar: This adds a lovely caramel-like sweetness to both the toppings and the cookies, enhancing that nostalgic flavor of pineapple upside-down cake.
Pineapple rings: Canned pineapple is convenient, but feel free to use fresh if you’re feeling fancy. The juicy, sweet rings form the heart of your cookies.
Maraschino cherries: This classic addition gives a pop of color and sweet-tart contrast. They’re perfect for that signature look!
Granulated sugar: Just a touch of this white sugar balances the flavors and contributes to the perfect cookie texture.
Large eggs: Essential for binding the ingredients, eggs contribute to the cookies’ rich texture.
Vanilla extract: A dash of this fragrant extract enhances the overall taste, bringing warmth and depth to your cookies.
Sour cream: This ingredient adds moisture and a subtle tang, elevating the flavor and keeping your cookies soft.
All-purpose flour: The base of the cookie dough, it supports all the other ingredients to create a chewy, delicious bite.
Baking powder & baking soda: These leavening agents help the cookies rise, creating a light texture.
Salt: Just a pinch! Salt elevates all the other flavors, creating a well-rounded sweetness.
Cornstarch: Adding a bit of cornstarch will result in a softer, melt-in-your-mouth cookie experience.

Detailed measurements for these ingredients are provided at the bottom of the article. Enjoy getting to know how each contributes to your delicious creation!

How to Make Pineapple Upside-Down Cookies

Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients, it’s time to dive into the fun part! Making these Pineapple Upside-Down Cookies is as simple as pie (or should I say cookies?). Follow these straightforward steps, and you’ll have a tropical delight in no time!

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial as it ensures your cookies bake evenly. While that’s heating up, lightly grease or spray a muffin pan. I love using a non-stick spray here; it makes the cookies come out easily without any fuss.

Step 2: Create the Topping Layer

In a small bowl, mix together 1 teaspoon of melted butter with 1 teaspoon of brown sugar for each muffin cup. This heavenly combo will add a sweet touch to your pineapple topping. Spoon this mixture into the bottom of each prepared muffin cup. Then, take your halved pineapple rings and place one on top of the sugar mixture. Finish off by popping a maraschino cherry right in the center. It’s like a mini masterpiece waiting for cookie dough!

Step 3: Making the Cookie Dough

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until fluffy. Trust me, this fluffy mixture is the secret to getting that rich cookie texture. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream. Your dough is starting to come to life!

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cornstarch. This dry mix is crucial for achieving that perfect cookie chemistry. Gradually combine this dry mixture into your wet ingredients. You want to make sure not to overmix here; just mix until everything is combined.

Step 4: Combine and Fill

Now for the fun part—filling those muffin cups! Use a spoon or cookie scoop to dollop the cookie dough over the pineapple and cherry. Fill each cup almost to the top, leaving just a little room for expansion. Don’t be shy; this is where the cookie magic happens!

Step 5: Bake the Cookies

Slide your muffin pan into the oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they bake. You’ll know they’re done when the tops are golden and a toothpick comes out clean. That heavenly aroma filling your kitchen will be the best sign of all!

Step 6: Let Cool and Invert

Once baked, take your cookies out and let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This step is crucial because it allows them to set just a bit more. Now comes the exciting part! Carefully invert the cookies onto a wire rack. Gently shake the pan to help them fall out. Take a moment to admire your stunning creation before diving in!

Tips for Success

Always use room temperature butter for an easy blend with your sugars.
Don’t skip the cooling time! It helps the cookies firm up for easy unveiling.
Keep an eye on the baking time. Ovens can vary, and you don’t want to overbake.
For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon to the cookie dough.
Enjoy a clean muffin pan by letting the cookies cool completely before cleaning.

Equipment Needed

Muffin pan: Essential for shaping your cookies. If you don’t have one, use individual ramekins or a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mixing bowls: You’ll need at least two, one for wet ingredients and one for dry. A large bowl works great for the dough!
Whisk and spatula: For mixing your ingredients thoroughly. A wooden spoon also works well!
Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy is key in baking! If you don’t have these, use a food scale.

Variations for Pineapple Upside-Down Cookies

Coconut Twist: Add shredded coconut into the cookie dough for a tropical flair that pairs beautifully with pineapple.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make these cookies accessible for those with dietary restrictions.
Choco-Chip Delight: Fold in some chocolate chips for a delightful chocolatey contrast to the fruity topping.
Nutty Addition: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the cookie dough for added crunch and flavor.
Maple Glaze: Drizzle a maple syrup glaze over the cookies once cooled to enhance sweetness and add a new layer of flavor.
Vegan Version: Use vegan butter and flax eggs instead of regular eggs and butter to make these cookies vegan-friendly.

Serving Suggestions

Ice Cream: Serve warm cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
Fresh Fruit: Pair with fresh pineapple or berries for a colorful plate.
Drink Pairing: Enjoy with a fruity iced tea or a tropical smoothie.
Presentation: Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.

FAQs about Pineapple Upside-Down Cookies

As you embark on this baking adventure, you might have some questions about these delightful Pineapple Upside-Down Cookies. Let me address a few that come to mind!

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Absolutely! Fresh pineapple adds a vibrant flavor. Just be sure to slice it into rings that fit your muffin pan.

How do I store leftover cookies?

Store any uneaten cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for about three days—but trust me, they won’t last that long!

What if I don’t have a muffin pan?

No problem! You can use ramekins or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Just adjust the baking time as needed!

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Sure! You can prepare the cookie dough in advance. Just chill it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

What other toppings can I try?

Get creative with toppings! Consider using diced peaches, strawberries, or even a sprinkle of toasted coconut for a delicious twist.

Final Thoughts

Cooking is all about creating joyful moments, and these Pineapple Upside-Down Cookies certainly deliver on that promise! Each bite is a sweet reminder of carefree days and tropical getaways. I can’t help but smile when I see those delightful cookies emerge from the oven, their golden tops glistening with buttery goodness. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or treating yourself after a long day, these cookies are sure to bring happiness to your kitchen. Embrace the creative process, and let these cookies be your delicious escape from the daily grind!