Pineapple Upside Down Sugar Cookies Recipe

Pineapple Upside Down Sugar Cookies Recipe

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Pineapple Upside Down Sugar Cookies Recipe

Hello, cookie lovers! If you’re a fan of the classic pineapple upside-down cake, you’re going to love this delightful twist—Pineapple Upside Down Sugar Cookies. These bite-sized treats combine buttery sugar cookie dough with the sweet tang of pineapple and the charm of maraschino cherries, all baked to golden perfection. Let’s get started!

Introduction

Pineapple Upside Down Sugar Cookies are a creative and delicious way to enjoy the iconic flavors of pineapple upside-down cake. Perfect for parties, holidays, or an indulgent treat, these cookies are simple to make and irresistibly cute. With a buttery base, sweet pineapple topping, and a maraschino cherry garnish, each cookie is a mini tropical dessert. Whether you’re baking for family or friends, these cookies are sure to impress!

Ingredients

To make these delectable Pineapple Upside Down Sugar Cookies, gather the following ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup crushed pineapple, drained
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 6 maraschino cherries, halved

Each ingredient brings a key element to the cookies. The crushed pineapple and cherries provide that signature flavor, while the buttery dough ensures the perfect texture.

How to Make Pineapple Upside Down Sugar Cookies

  1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and set it aside.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving a tender cookie base.
  3. Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until the mixture is fully combined and smooth.
  4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
  5. Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to create an indentation in the center of each dough ball.
  6. Fill the Cookies: Fill each indentation with a teaspoon of crushed pineapple, ensuring it is well-drained to prevent soggy cookies. Sprinkle a small amount of brown sugar over the pineapple for caramelization.
  7. Add the Cherry Garnish: Place half a maraschino cherry in the center of each cookie, pressing gently to secure it in place.
  8. Bake to Perfection: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Avoid overbaking to maintain a soft, chewy texture.
  9. Cool and Serve: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving or storing.

Helpful Tips

  • Draining the Pineapple: Be sure to thoroughly drain the crushed pineapple to prevent excess moisture from affecting the cookie texture. You can even pat it dry with a paper towel.
  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the butter and egg are at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother dough.
  • Even Baking: For consistent results, bake one tray at a time in the center of the oven. Rotate the tray halfway through baking if needed.
  • Storage: Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for a slightly longer shelf life.

Cooking Tips

Here are a few extra tips to elevate your Pineapple Upside Down Sugar Cookies:

  • Cookie Size: Keep the dough balls uniform in size to ensure even baking. A small cookie scoop can help with this.
  • Caramelization: For a deeper caramel flavor, you can lightly toast the brown sugar and pineapple topping under the broiler for 1-2 minutes after baking. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.
  • Alternative Flavors: Swap maraschino cherries for fresh or frozen cherries for a less sweet option. You can also try adding a pinch of cinnamon to the dough for a spiced twist.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these cookies as a delightful dessert alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly indulgent treat. They also pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea for a tropical-inspired afternoon snack. For a party presentation, arrange them on a platter with fresh pineapple slices for a festive display.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the nutritional profile of these cookies per serving:

  • Calories: 120
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Fat: 5g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg
  • Sodium: 60mg
  • Potassium: 20mg
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Vitamin A: 3%
  • Vitamin C: 2%
  • Calcium: 1%
  • Iron: 2%

Storage and Leftovers

Refrigerate: If you have leftovers, store the cookies in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. The pineapple topping stays fresher with refrigeration.

Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked dough balls for up to 2 months. Simply shape the dough, make the indentations, and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, thaw slightly, add the toppings, and bake as directed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes! Fresh pineapple can be finely chopped and used in place of crushed pineapple. Just make sure to drain any excess juice thoroughly.

What if I don’t have parchment paper?
You can lightly grease the baking sheet with butter or nonstick spray as an alternative.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, this recipe is easily doubled for larger gatherings or meal prep.

Related Recipes

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Conclusion

Pineapple Upside Down Sugar Cookies are a tropical twist on a classic dessert, perfect for any occasion. With their vibrant pineapple topping and sweet cherry garnish, they’re as beautiful as they are delicious. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering or a simple treat at home, these cookies are sure to impress. Happy baking, and enjoy every bite of this tropical delight!

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