Hello, cookie enthusiasts! If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the buttery goodness of sugar cookies with the tropical sweetness of pineapple and cherries, these Pineapple Upside Sugar Cookies are the perfect choice. With a fun twist on the classic pineapple upside-down cake, this recipe creates bite-sized desserts that are as delicious as they are beautiful. Whether you’re hosting a party or craving something sweet, these cookies are sure to be a hit. Let’s dive into this delectable recipe!
Introduction
Pineapple Upside Sugar Cookies are a creative take on the beloved pineapple upside-down cake, blending the best of two dessert worlds. These cookies offer the rich flavor of a classic sugar cookie base paired with the juicy sweetness of crushed pineapple and the charm of maraschino cherries. Their vibrant appearance makes them a standout on any dessert table, while their tender texture and tropical flavor keep everyone coming back for more. Plus, they’re easy to make and perfect for all occasions, from family gatherings to afternoon tea.
Ingredients
To make these delicious Pineapple Upside Sugar Cookies, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- Maraschino cherries, halved
- Brown sugar for sprinkling
These pantry-friendly ingredients create a harmonious blend of buttery, sweet, and fruity flavors. Be sure to use properly drained pineapple to avoid overly moist cookies.
How to Make Pineapple Upside Sugar Cookies
Follow these step-by-step instructions to bake your own batch of Pineapple Upside Sugar Cookies:
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step ensures a smooth, tender cookie texture.
- Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture, beating well until fully combined. The vanilla adds a warm, sweet note that enhances the overall flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until a dough forms.
- Add the Pineapple: Gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple using a spatula. This step ensures the pineapple is evenly distributed without overmixing the dough.
- Scoop the Dough: Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, portion out balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each to allow for spreading.
- Add Toppings: Press a halved maraschino cherry into the center of each cookie and sprinkle a pinch of brown sugar over the top. The brown sugar adds a caramelized flavor that pairs beautifully with the pineapple.
- Bake: Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking, as this can make the cookies too crisp.
- Cool the Cookies: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 3-5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling on the rack helps preserve their soft texture.
Prep and Cook Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: 30-32 minutes
- Servings: Makes approximately 24 cookies
Helpful Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Use real butter and high-quality vanilla extract for the best flavor.
- Draining Pineapple: Properly drain the crushed pineapple to prevent excess moisture, which can affect the texture of the cookies.
- Chill the Dough: If your kitchen is warm or the dough feels too soft, refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes before scooping and baking. This helps the cookies hold their shape.
- Experiment with Additions: For an extra tropical twist, sprinkle shredded coconut over the cookies before baking. You can also drizzle melted white chocolate over cooled cookies for added sweetness and decoration.
Cooking Tips
To achieve the perfect texture and flavor for your Pineapple Upside Sugar Cookies, keep these tips in mind:
- Even Baking: Rotate the baking sheet halfway through the cooking time to ensure even baking.
- Maraschino Cherry Placement: Gently press the cherries into the dough to prevent them from sliding off during baking.
- Golden Edges: Look for lightly golden edges as a sign the cookies are done. The centers will continue to set as they cool on the baking sheet.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are versatile and can be served in various settings. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat, or include them in a dessert platter alongside chocolate truffles and mini cheesecakes. Their bright appearance and tropical flavor also make them a great addition to summer picnics, potlucks, or holiday dessert tables.
For a fun presentation, arrange the cookies on a cake stand and garnish with fresh pineapple slices and additional maraschino cherries. Their vibrant look will steal the show at any gathering.
Nutritional Information (Per Cookie)
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 60mg
- Potassium: 20mg
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sugar: 8g
- Vitamin A: 4%
- Vitamin C: 1%
- Calcium: 1%
- Iron: 2%
Storage and Leftovers
To keep your Pineapple Upside Sugar Cookies fresh and delicious:
- Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week.
- Reheating: Enjoy cookies at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave for 5-10 seconds to bring out their flavors.
- Freezing: The cookie dough can be frozen for up to 2 months. Simply scoop the dough into balls, freeze them on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the bake time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned? Yes, finely chop fresh pineapple and drain it well to remove excess juice.
What if I don’t have maraschino cherries? You can substitute with candied cherries or even small pieces of dried pineapple.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free? Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to replace the all-purpose flour. The texture may vary slightly but will still be delicious.
Related Recipes
If you love tropical-inspired desserts, try these recipes next:
Conclusion
There you have it—an easy and delicious recipe for Pineapple Upside Sugar Cookies! These cookies combine a buttery base with sweet pineapple and cherries, creating a unique dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe today and let us know how much you love it. Your friends and family will thank you for introducing them to this tropical twist on a classic treat. Enjoy every bite of these delectable cookies!