Pineapple Upside-Down Cookies 🍍🍒

Introduction

Pineapple Upside-Down Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic dessert that has been loved for generations. As someone who adores experimenting with recipes, I was thrilled to create these cookies that offer a nostalgic taste while being incredibly easy to make. The moment I pulled the first batch from the oven, the warm, caramelized pineapple and sweet cherries filled my kitchen with an aroma that took me back to my childhood. My family couldn’t resist the urge to sneak a bite before they were even cooled! These cookies became an instant hit, and I’m excited to share the recipe with you.

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 1 cup butter, room temperature
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 2 eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• ½ cup sour cream
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• ½ teaspoon salt

For the Pineapple and Cherry Topping:

• 13 canned pineapple slices
• 13 maraschino cherries

For the Brown Sugar Mixture:

• ½ cup butter, melted
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a mini round cake pan by setting it aside.

Mix Wet Ingredients

2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the room temperature butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
3. Beat in the eggs, vanilla extract, and sour cream until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cornstarch, and salt until evenly mixed.

Make Cookie Dough

5. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can result in dense cookies.

Prepare Pineapple and Cherry Base

6. In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter with the brown sugar until smooth. This creates a delicious caramel base.
7. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of this brown sugar mixture into the bottom of each cake pan cavity, spreading it to cover the base.
8. Place a pineapple slice over the brown sugar layer, and add a cherry in the center of each pineapple.

Assemble Cookies

9. Scoop about 3 tablespoons of cookie dough on top of each pineapple slice. Use an offset spatula to flatten the dough evenly over the fruit.

Bake

10. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the brown sugar mixture bubbles up the sides.

Cool and Serve

11. Allow the cookies to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before turning them out onto a wax paper-covered surface to catch any drips of brown sugar.
12. If any pineapple slices stick to the pan, gently reposition them on the cookies.
13. Let the cookies cool completely before serving.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 13 cookies
• Calories per serving: Approximately 230 kcal
• Total Fat: 11 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Cholesterol: 50 mg
• Sodium: 100 mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 32 g
• Dietary Fiber: 0 g
• Sugars: 15 g
• Protein: 2 g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve the cookies warm or at room temperature.
• Drizzle with extra melted chocolate for added sweetness.
• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color.
• Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack.

Additional Tips

1. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that the butter and eggs are at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother dough.
2. Brown Sugar: Pack the brown sugar firmly in the measuring cup to get the right sweetness and moisture content.
3. Variations: Experiment with different fruits, like peaches or cherries, for unique flavor combinations.
4. Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies as baking times may vary based on your oven and pan size.
5. Storage: Allow cookies to cool completely before storing to avoid sogginess.

Recipe Variations

• Tropical Twist: Add shredded coconut to the cookie dough for a tropical flavor.
• Nutty Addition: Stir in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make these cookies gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free butter and a non-dairy sour cream alternative.
• Sugar Substitute: Swap granulated sugar for coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index option.

Serving Suggestions

• These cookies are perfect for birthday parties, potlucks, or family gatherings.
• Serve them as part of a dessert table alongside other treats like brownies and fruit tarts.
• Pair with tropical-themed cocktails or mocktails for a fun summer gathering.
• Use as a creative dessert option for brunch with friends and family.

Freezing and Storage

• Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the oven before serving.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
   Yes, you can use fresh pineapple, but you may need to adjust the cooking time.
2. What can I use instead of sour cream?
   Greek yogurt or buttermilk can be substituted for sour cream.
3. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
   Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
4. Why are my cookies sticking to the pan?
   Ensure that the pan is well-greased, and allow the cookies to cool slightly before removing.
5. How do I prevent overmixing?
   Mix until just combined; small lumps are okay.
6. Can I use other types of sugar?
   Yes, you can experiment with brown sugar or coconut sugar for different flavors.
7. What should I do if the cookies are too dry?
   Make sure not to overbake them, and consider adding a tablespoon of milk to the dough if needed.
8. Can I replace the cherries?
   Yes, feel free to use any fruit you like, such as blueberries or chopped strawberries.
9. What’s the best way to serve these cookies?
   They can be enjoyed plain or dressed up with whipped cream or ice cream.
10. Can I adjust the sweetness?
    Yes, feel free to reduce the sugar in the cookie dough if you prefer a less sweet treat.

Conclusion

Pineapple Upside-Down Cookies are a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making them a must-try for anyone looking for a fun dessert. With their sweet, caramelized topping and soft cookie base, these treats are sure to impress family and friends alike. Whether enjoyed as a dessert or a snack, each bite delivers a delightful surprise. Try making these cookies today, and savor the deliciousness in every bite!

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