Name: Pineapple Upside Down Sugar Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1/2 cup sour cream; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon cornstarch; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 13 canned pineapple slices, drained; 13 maraschino cherries; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup light brown sugar, packed

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Introduction to Pineapple Upside Down Sugar Cookies

Life can often feel like a whirlwind, especially for us busy moms juggling countless responsibilities. That’s why I cherish recipes like these Pineapple Upside Down Sugar Cookies. They offer a delightful twist on a classic dessert, marrying the rich taste of brown sugar with the tropical sweetness of pineapple. Perfect for a quick treat after soccer practice or a simple dessert to impress guests, these cookies are my go-to when time is short but the craving for something sweet strikes. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Pineapple Upside Down Sugar Cookies

These Pineapple Upside Down Sugar Cookies are the sweet solution to your baking woes! They’re quick to prepare, needing just 45 minutes from start to finish. The rich, buttery taste paired with the juicy sweetness of pineapple creates a flavor explosion that’ll have everyone asking for more. Plus, they’re fun to make! In just a few simple steps, you’ll have a dessert that’s sure to bring smiles all around.

Ingredients for Pineapple Upside Down Sugar Cookies

Creating these indulgent Pineapple Upside Down Sugar Cookies is a breeze with the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Unsalted Butter: Room temperature butter is essential for a creamy texture. It helps the cookies rise and gives them that melt-in-your-mouth quality.
Granulated Sugar: The key sweetener that adds the perfect level of sweetness to our cookie dough.
Large Eggs: Eggs provide structure and moisture, binding everything together for a deliciously soft cookie.
Vanilla Extract: This adds a warm, inviting flavor that complements the sweetness of the cookies.
Sour Cream: It contributes to a rich texture and adds a hint of tanginess, balancing out the sweetness.
All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of your cookie dough, providing the necessary structure.
Baking Powder: This leavening agent helps the cookies rise, giving them that lovely softness.
Cornstarch: A little bit of cornstarch keeps the cookies tender and adds a delightful chewiness.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors, bringing out the sweetness of the sugar and fruit.
Canned Pineapple Slices: Choose quality canned slices for that juicy, tropical flair. Fresh pineapple can also be an option, but canned slices are convenient and provide consistent results.
Maraschino Cherries: These not only add a pop of color but also a sweet and familiar taste that pairs beautifully with pineapple.
Melted Butter: Used for the brown sugar glaze, it adds richness to our delightful topping.
Light Brown Sugar: The star of the show for our glaze, it provides that signature caramel flavor that makes these cookies completely irresistible.

For precise measurements of each ingredient, be sure to check out the bottom of this article, where you can find everything available for printing!

How to Make Pineapple Upside Down Sugar Cookies

Let’s dive into the delightful process of making Pineapple Upside Down Sugar Cookies. Follow these simple steps, and soon you’ll be savoring that perfect blend of sweet and tropical goodness.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly. While that warms up, prepare a mini round cake pan or muffin tin by greasing it. A little non-stick spray or butter works wonders here!

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together your room temperature unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy. This is where the magic begins, as the fluffy texture creates the perfect base for your cookie dough.

Step 3: Mix in Wet Ingredients

Now it’s time to add in the wet ingredients. Toss in the large eggs, vanilla extract, and sour cream. Mix well until everything is fully integrated. The aroma will make your kitchen smell incredible already, and I can guarantee it will have your family wandering in!

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, cornstarch, and salt. This step is crucial to evenly distribute the leavening agents. Don’t rush this part; a well-mixed dry bowl will lead to wonderfully fluffy cookies!

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to your wet mixture. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! You want a smooth dough without any stubborn lumps, preserving that soft cookie texture we adore.

Step 6: Prepare the Brown Sugar Glaze

In another bowl, blend the melted butter with light brown sugar. Stir until it’s perfectly smooth. This rich glaze will give your cookies that signature upside-down taste. It’s like a warm hug for your cookies!

Step 7: Layer Pineapple and Cherries

Spoon about one tablespoon of the brown sugar mixture into each cavity of your prepared pan. Spread it evenly. Next, delicately place a pineapple slice over this glaze and nestle a maraschino cherry right in the center of each slice. This colorful arrangement is almost too pretty to cover!

Step 8: Baking

Now it’s time for the cookies to shine! Using a 3-tablespoon scoop, portion the cookie dough over each fruit-topped cavity. Gently flatten the dough with an offset spatula for an even finish. Bake in your preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until golden brown edges appear, and the brown sugar is bubbling up. That bubbling is music to my ears!

Step 9: Cooling and Serving

Allow the cookies to cool for about 10 minutes after removing them from the oven. Then gently invert the cookies onto wax paper. This lets the luscious brown sugar glaze run over the tops, making it even more irresistible. Let them cool completely before enjoying or storing. Patience may be required, but it’s so worth it!

Tips for Success

Always use room temperature butter for the best creaming results.
Don’t rush the mixing—combine ingredients thoroughly for a better texture.
Check your oven temperature with a thermometer for accurate baking.
Experiment with fresh pineapple for a zesty twist if you have the time!
Use a cookie scoop for even-sized cookies that bake uniformly.

Equipment Needed

Mini Round Cake Pan or Muffin Tin: If you don’t have these, use a standard baking sheet, just adjust the cookie size.
Electric Mixer: A hand mixer will work fine, or you can use a whisk for a workout!
Baking Spatula: An offset spatula or regular spatula works for spreading the dough.
Mixing Bowls: Opt for stainless steel or glass bowls for easy mixing and cleaning.

Variations on Pineapple Upside Down Sugar Cookies

Coconut Delight: Add shredded coconut to the cookie dough for a tropical twist that pairs beautifully with pineapple.
Nutty Indulgence: Include chopped pecans or walnuts in the dough for an added crunch and nutty flavor that complements the sweetness.
Chocolate Chip Fusion: Stir in some mini chocolate chips to the cookie dough. They add a rich contrast to the fruity flavor!
Gluten-Free Goodness: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to enjoy these cookies while accommodating dietary restrictions.
Reduced Sugar Option: Use a sugar substitute like Stevia or Monk Fruit for a lighter version without losing that delightful taste.

Serving Suggestions for Pineapple Upside Down Sugar Cookies

Iced Coffee: Pair these cookies with a refreshing iced coffee for a delightful afternoon pick-me-up.
Coconut Whipped Cream: Serve with a dollop of coconut whipped cream for an elevated tropical experience.
Fruit Salad: Accompany the cookies with a light fruit salad to create a balanced dessert plate.
Presentation: Arrange cookies on a colorful platter, garnished with mint leaves for that extra pop!

FAQs about Pineapple Upside Down Sugar Cookies

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Absolutely! Using fresh pineapple can add an even brighter flavor to your Pineapple Upside Down Sugar Cookies. Simply peel, core, and slice the fresh pineapple into rings. Just remember to adjust the baking time if needed, as fresh fruit might release more moisture compared to canned varieties.

How do I store leftover cookies?

To keep your leftover cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This ensures they maintain their softness. If you want to enjoy them later, you can freeze the cookies. Just wrap them in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They should stay delicious for up to three months!

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily make these cookies gluten-free! Just substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Many brands offer excellent flour mixes that function similarly to regular flour. Make sure to check your baking powder to ensure it’s gluten-free, and you’re all set to enjoy a delightful gluten-free treat!

Final Thoughts

In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, these Pineapple Upside Down Sugar Cookies bring a slice of joy that’s hard to beat. The combination of sweet pineapple, rich brown sugar, and that buttery cookie base creates not just a dessert, but a heartfelt moment to share with family and friends. Each bite transports you to a sunny day, making any occasion feel like a celebration. I hope this recipe becomes a cherished part of your baking adventures, just as it has in mine. So, grab your apron and let those delightful aromas fill your kitchen—happiness is just a cookie away!