Name: Pineapple Upside-Down Sugar Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 can (8 oz) pineapple slices, drained (reserve juice); ¼ cup unsalted butter; ½ cup brown sugar, packed; Maraschino cherries (one for each cookie)

Are you craving something sweet yet unique that will take you on an irresistible journey? Look no further than the delightful Pineapple Upside-Down Sugar Cookies. These gourmet little treats marry the classic sugar cookie texture with the tropical essence of a pineapple upside-down cake. Perfect for any occasion, their vibrant appearance and refreshing flavor will captivate both adults and kids alike. Imagine a soft, buttery sugar cookie crowned with a slice of pineapple, brown sugar caramel, and a bright maraschino cherry; it’s a simple yet sophisticated feast for the eyes and the palate. These cookies are not only a visual delight but also easy to make, turning your everyday baking into a straightforward yet remarkable dessert experience.

In a world where desserts are becoming increasingly complex, this recipe champions simplicity alongside creativity. The soft cookie base, coupled with the caramelized topping, delivers new textures and flavors in every bite. You don’t have to be a professional baker to create this beautiful dessert. By following a few simple steps for the preparation and baking, you’ll soon be impressing family and friends with a dessert that looks chic yet comforting. Best of all, these cookies fit effortlessly into a busy lifestyle, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for potlucks or weekend indulgences!

So whether you’re looking to surprise guests during a get-together or just want to treat yourself to a slice of tropical haven, let Pineapple Upside-Down Sugar Cookies be the star of your table. The ease of preparation ensures that you can always have these delightful confections ready to enjoy quickly, and their instant ability to uplift the mood makes them truly special. Dive into our detailed guide below to whip up these extraordinary cookies.

Why You’ll Love This Pineapple Upside-Down Sugar Cookies

Tropical Flavor: The sweet and tangy combination of pineapple with cherry gives a sunny burst of flavor.
Ease of Preparation: With just a few ingredients and steps, you will have exquisite cookies ready in no time.
Visual Appeal: These cookies offer vibrant colors that are sure to grab attention at any gathering.
Versatile Delight: Suitable for summer parties, holiday tables, or as an afternoon sweet treat.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into making the Pineapple Upside-Down Sugar Cookies, a bit of preparation will go a long way in ensuring you have a smooth baking experience. To begin, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preparing your baking environment ahead of time will allow you to focus on achieving the perfect cookie texture and look.

Line two baking sheets with parchment paper, which will help you to effortlessly remove the cookies once they’re baked. When it comes to tools, a couple of key items will make the process easier: a hand mixer or stand mixer for creaming the butter and sugar, and a whisk for blending the dry ingredients. For uniformly shaped cookies, consider using a cookie scoop. Lastly, having a small saucepan on hand for melting the brown sugar and butter topping will ensure it pours smoothly onto each cookie spot.

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt

1 can (8 oz) pineapple slices, drained (reserve juice)
¼ cup unsalted butter
½ cup brown sugar, packed
Maraschino cherries (one for each cookie)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick.

Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Dough

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, around 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial as it sets the foundation for the cookie’s texture. Follow by adding the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until combined. In a separate bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually incorporate the dry mixture into the butter mixture, stirring gently to form a soft dough.

Step 3: Make the Topping

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter and brown sugar while stirring continuously. When the mixture starts to bubble and becomes smooth, it’s ready to use.

Step 4: Assemble the Cookies

On the prepared baking sheets, spoon about 1 tablespoon of the butter-sugar topping into the center of each expected cookie spot. Place one pineapple slice on top, and then position a maraschino cherry in the center of each slice. Scoop a tablespoon of cookie dough, spreading it gently over the pineapple slice, leaving the edges slightly uncovered to achieve the classic upside-down look.

Step 5: Bake

Place the cookies in the preheated oven, baking for 12-15 minutes or until the edges achieve a light golden brown color. Once baked, let them sit on the baking sheets for about five minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool fully.

Variations

Protein: Add chopped nuts like macadamias or pecans to the dough for an extra crunch and nutty flavor.
Vegetables: For extra moisture and a unique twist, incorporate shredded coconut into the dough.
Spices: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg in the dry ingredients enhances the tropical notes.

Cooking Notes

Ensure your butter is properly softened for easier mixing and a smoother dough.
Reserving the pineapple juice can provide additional moisture if needed.
Check the oven temperature with an oven thermometer for consistent results.
Adjust the size of the cookies as desired but remember to alter the baking time accordingly.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert experience.
Serve with fresh tropical fruits, such as mango or papaya, for added color and variety.

Tips

Use cookie scoops or molded ice cream scoops for consistent cookie sizes.
Let cookies cool completely to set the flavors before storing them in an airtight container.
Experiment with different flavored cherries, like brandied or dried, for a new taste sensation.
Consider lightly toasting the maraschino cherries in the oven for a deeper flavor.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 120 per cookie
Protein: 1 gram per cookie
Sodium: 70 milligrams per cookie

FAQs

How do I store the Pineapple Upside-Down Sugar Cookies?

These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerated for up to 10 days. Freezing them for longer storage is also an option.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, fresh pineapple can be used for a more natural taste, although the texture may slightly differ. Ensure the slices are well-drained to avoid soggy cookies.

What if I don’t have a mixer? Can I mix the dough by hand?

Mixing by hand is possible, though it will require more effort to achieve the same level of creaminess. Be sure to fully incorporate the ingredients for a uniform dough.

Are there any substitutions for maraschino cherries?

Glacé cherries or even candied ginger can be delightful alternatives, offering different flavor profiles and aesthetics.

Conclusion

Making Pineapple Upside-Down Sugar Cookies truly offers a delightful twist on the traditional sugar cookie. These cookies are ideal for those looking to recreate the tropical vibes of a traditional pineapple upside-down cake in a bite-size treat. The handling of simple ingredients, the speedy preparation, and the rich taste make this recipe a must-try for every dessert enthusiast. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or looking for that special something to brighten up your day, these cookies never fail to impress.

By experimenting with variations or adhering to the classic preparation, you’re bound to create a personal masterpiece. We’d love to hear about your experience and any special tweaks you made, so feel free to leave a comment, share your thoughts, and explore the opportunities of this outstanding treat. Dive into your kitchen and let the tropical flavors transport you!