I have a sweet spot for cookies, and one of my all-time favorites is the Pineapple Upside Down Sugar Cookies recipe. These delightful treats bring together the tropical sweetness of pineapple and the comforting flavor of sugar cookies. As I bake these cookies, the aroma fills my kitchen, reminding me of summer days spent enjoying pineapple desserts.
Why Pineapple Upside Down Sugar Cookies Recipe?
Every time I make these cookies, I am transported back to my childhood. My grandmother often made pineapple upside-down cake, and this recipe is a fun twist on that classic dessert. The blend of flavors and textures creates a delightful treat that is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients for Pineapple Upside Down Sugar Cookies Recipe
To make these cookies, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 can (8 ounces) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup maraschino cherries, halved
How to Make Pineapple Upside Down Sugar Cookies Recipe
Making these cookies is a fun and straightforward process. Here’s how I do it:
- Preheat the Oven: I start by preheating my oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the cookies bake evenly.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, I combine the flour, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps to evenly distribute the baking soda and salt.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate bowl, I cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it adds air into the mixture, making the cookies soft.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Next, I add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. I mix until everything is well combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually, I add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. I mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Prepare Pineapple Topping: In a small bowl, I combine the drained crushed pineapple and brown sugar. This mixture will be the delicious topping for the cookies.
- Scoop and Shape: I scoop out a tablespoon of cookie dough and flatten it slightly in my palm. Then, I place a spoonful of the pineapple mixture in the center and fold the dough around it, sealing it.
- Add Cherries: I place the cookie dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. I gently press a half maraschino cherry on top of each cookie.
- Bake: I bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
- Cool and Enjoy: Once out of the oven, I let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Pineapple Upside Down Sugar Cookies Recipe
Over the years, I have learned a few tips to ensure these cookies turn out perfectly every time:
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature. This helps them mix better and creates a smoother dough.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
- Drain Pineapple Well: Make sure to drain the crushed pineapple thoroughly. Excess moisture can make the cookies soggy.
- Experiment with Toppings: You can use other fruits or nuts as toppings. Try using diced strawberries or pecans for a different flavor.
Storing Pineapple Upside Down Sugar Cookies
I love to keep these cookies fresh for as long as possible. Here’s how I store them:
- Room Temperature: I store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Freezing: If I want to save some for later, I freeze the cookies. I place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer.
- Reheating: To enjoy frozen cookies, I simply let them thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are delicious on their own, but I love to serve them with a few extras:
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream on top makes for a delightful treat.
- Ice Cream: Serving these cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream takes the dessert to the next level.
- Coffee or Tea: Pairing these cookies with a warm cup of coffee or tea makes for a cozy afternoon snack.
Pineapple Upside Down Sugar Cookies Recipe for Special Occasions
I often make these cookies for special occasions. They are perfect for:
- Birthday Parties: The bright colors and tropical flavors make them a hit at any birthday celebration.
- Summer Gatherings: These cookies evoke summer vibes, making them ideal for picnics and barbecues.
- Holiday Treats: I love to include them in my holiday cookie trays. They add a unique twist to traditional holiday cookies.
Nutritional Information
While I enjoy these cookies as a treat, it’s good to be mindful of the nutritional content. Here’s a rough estimate per cookie:
- Calories: Approximately 150
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 1g
Why You Will Love Pineapple Upside Down Sugar Cookies Recipe
These cookies are not just tasty; they are also a fun way to enjoy the flavors of pineapple upside-down cake in a portable form. The sweetness of the sugar cookies combined with the tartness of the pineapple creates a delightful balance.
Baking these Pineapple Upside Down Sugar Cookies has become a cherished tradition for me. Each bite brings back memories of family gatherings and sunny days. I encourage you to try this recipe and share it with your loved ones. It’s a delightful way to introduce a classic dessert in a new form. Enjoy baking and indulging in these delicious cookies!