🍍 Pineapple Upside Down Sugar Cookies 🍍
Pineapple Upside Down Sugar Cookies are the perfect marriage between a nostalgic, old-fashioned dessert and a modern, handheld treat. Inspired by the beloved pineapple upside-down cake, these cookies capture all the magic—caramelized sugar, juicy pineapple, and rich buttery dough—in a soft, chewy cookie that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re baking for a party, a holiday tray, or simply to satisfy a sweet craving, this recipe delivers show-stopping flavor with minimal effort.
These cookies are loved for their beautiful golden appearance, tropical aroma, and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Even better, they’re easy enough for beginner bakers while impressive enough to wow seasoned dessert lovers. ⭐⭐⭐
✨ Ingredients & Their Purpose ✨
- 🧈 Unsalted Butter (1 cup, softened) – The foundation of flavor and texture. Butter provides richness, tenderness, and that classic sugar cookie melt.
- 🍚 Granulated Sugar (1 cup) – Sweetens the dough while also helping the cookies spread and caramelize beautifully.
- 🥚 Large Egg (1) – Adds moisture, structure, and helps bind the dough together.
- 🌼 Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon) – Enhances sweetness and deepens the overall flavor profile.
- 🌾 All-Purpose Flour (2 cups) – Provides structure and stability while keeping the cookies soft.
- 🧂 Baking Soda (1 teaspoon) – Allows the cookies to rise slightly and stay tender.
- 🧂 Salt (½ teaspoon) – Balances sweetness and enhances all other flavors.
- 🍍 Canned Pineapple Rings (10–12, drained & dried) – The star ingredient! Adds tropical sweetness, moisture, and visual appeal.
- ✨ Additional Sugar (to taste) – Sprinkled on top for extra sparkle and caramelization.
🌀 Step-by-Step Instructions 🌀
- 🔥 Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line baking trays with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking. - 🧈 Cream Butter & Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer for 2–3 minutes, until light, fluffy, and pale in color. - 🥚 Add Egg & Vanilla
Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure even mixing. - 🌾 Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until a soft dough forms. - 🍍 Prepare the Pineapple
Ensure pineapple rings are very well-drained and patted dry to prevent soggy cookies. - ⭐ Assemble the Cookies
Place pineapple rings on the parchment-lined baking tray. Sprinkle a light layer of sugar inside each ring. Spoon cookie dough into the center of each pineapple ring, filling it evenly. - 🔥 Bake to Perfection
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are just set. - ❄️ Cool & Flip
Allow cookies to cool for 5 minutes, then gently flip them pineapple-side up. Let cool completely on a wire rack.
💛 Why Everyone Loves This Recipe 💛
✔ Combines classic comfort food with a tropical twist
✔ Soft, chewy texture with caramelized pineapple flavor
✔ Easy to prepare with simple pantry ingredients
✔ Perfect for parties, holidays, and gifting 🎁
👩🍳 Pro Tips for Perfect Cookies 👩🍳
- Dry the pineapple thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.
- Do not overmix the dough to keep cookies tender.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg.
- Use a cookie scoop for even sizing and baking.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions 🍽️
Serve these cookies:
- With vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert
- Alongside coffee or tea for an afternoon treat ☕
- As part of a dessert platter at gatherings
- Wrapped beautifully for homemade gifts
🌟 Final Thoughts 🌟
Pineapple Upside Down Sugar Cookies prove that simple ingredients can create extraordinary results. With their buttery base, juicy pineapple topping, and irresistible sweetness, these cookies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Easy to make, visually stunning, and incredibly delicious, this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your baking rotation. Bake them once, and they’ll quickly become a favorite you return to again and again. 🍍✨
