Pineapple Upside-Down Sugar Cookies

Introduction

When it comes to delightful desserts that bring a tropical twist to the table, these Pineapple Upside-Down Sugar Cookies never fail to impress. The moment I took my first bite, I was transported to a sunny beach, the sweetness of pineapple and brown sugar creating an irresistible flavor combination. My family couldn’t get enough of them! The chewy, buttery cookie base paired with the caramelized pineapple topping is truly a match made in heaven. Whether for a summer gathering or a cozy afternoon treat, these cookies have quickly become a favorite in our household.

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 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

For the Topping:

• 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

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes.
3. Add Egg and Vanilla: Incorporate the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well blended.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, whisking to mix thoroughly.
5. Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture into the creamed butter mixture, stirring gently until just combined without overmixing.
6. Prepare the Topping: In a small saucepan, melt ¼ cup of unsalted butter along with the brown sugar over medium heat, stirring continuously until bubbly and smooth.
7. Assemble the Cookies:

• Spoon about a tablespoon of the butter-sugar mixture into the center of each cookie spot on the prepared baking sheets.
• Place a pineapple slice on top of each.
• Position a maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple slice for that classic look.

1. Add Cookie Dough: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of cookie dough and gently spread it over each pineapple slice, ensuring to cover it slightly while keeping some of the fruit visible.
2. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookie edges turn a light golden brown.
3. Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack for complete cooling.
4. Enjoy: Serve these delicious tropical-inspired cookies warm or at room temperature!

Nutrition Facts (per cookie)

• Calories: 160
• Total Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 25mg
• Sodium: 90mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 22g
• Dietary Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 10g
• Protein: 2g

Preparation Time

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

How to Serve

• Serve warm or at room temperature.
• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.
• Arrange on a decorative platter for parties or gatherings.
• Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack.

Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Pineapple: For a fresher taste, consider using fresh pineapple slices instead of canned.
2. Chill the Dough: If the dough feels too soft, refrigerate it for 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
3. Don’t Overmix: Be careful not to overmix the cookie dough to keep the cookies tender.
4. Store in an Airtight Container: Keep leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
5. Experiment with Flavors: Add a pinch of cinnamon or coconut extract for an extra layer of flavor.

Recipe Variations

• Coconut Upside-Down Cookies: Substitute half of the brown sugar with sweetened shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
• Peach or Mango Cookies: Swap out the pineapple for fresh or canned peaches or mango slices for a different fruity flavor.
• Chocolate Chip Addition: Mix in chocolate chips to the cookie dough for a chocolatey contrast.

Serving Suggestions

• Perfect for summer barbecues and potlucks.
• Serve alongside tropical-themed drinks like piña coladas or fruit smoothies.
• Ideal as a dessert for a Hawaiian luau-themed party.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze unbaked cookie dough by scooping onto a baking sheet and freezing until solid. Then transfer to a zip-top bag and store for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra minute to the baking time.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use margarine instead of butter?

• Yes, margarine can be used, but it may affect the flavor and texture slightly.

1. What can I use instead of maraschino cherries?

• You can substitute with fresh cherries or leave them out entirely.

1. How do I know when the cookies are done?

• The edges should be lightly golden, and the cookies should appear set.

1. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

• Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

1. How can I make the cookies more chewy?

• Slightly reduce the baking time for softer, chewier cookies.

1. Can I double the recipe?

• Yes, simply double all the ingredients and bake in batches.

1. What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?

• Add a little more flour until the desired consistency is reached.

1. Can I add nuts to the cookie dough?

• Absolutely! Chopped pecans or walnuts would complement the flavor.

1. How do I store leftover cookies?

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

1. What other fruits can I use?
   • You can use other fruits like peaches, mangoes, or even berries.

Conclusion

These Pineapple Upside-Down Sugar Cookies are not only a delightful treat but also a fun way to bring a tropical flair to your dessert table. With their buttery cookie base, sweet caramelized pineapple, and the classic touch of maraschino cherries, they are sure to be a hit among family and friends. Whether you’re enjoying them as an afternoon snack or serving them at a gathering, these cookies are bound to leave a lasting impression. So grab your ingredients and start baking—your taste buds will thank you!

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