Pineapple Upside Down Cupcakes

Name: Pineapple Upside Down Cupcakes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened); 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup crushed pineapple (drained); 1/4 cup brown sugar; 8 maraschino cherries

Indulge in the tropical flavors of pineapple upside down cupcakes that bring a delightful twist to the classic dessert. Each cupcake is topped with caramelized pineapple and maraschino cherries, creating a beautiful and appetizing treat. Perfect for parties or a sweet ending to your meal, these cupcakes are sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients

– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 8 maraschino cherries

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe makes 12 cupcakes. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 20 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 cupcake) contains approximately 180 calories, 8g fat, 24g carbohydrates, 2g protein, and 14g sugar.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with liners.
2. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, cream the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
6. In the bottom of each cupcake liner, sprinkle brown sugar.
7. Add a slice of pineapple and a cherry on top of the brown sugar.
8. Spoon the batter over the pineapple and cherries, filling each liner about 2/3 full.
9. Bake for 20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
10. Let them cool for a few minutes before inverting onto a plate to serve.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option. For a dairy-free version, use coconut oil instead of butter and a flax egg instead of regular eggs.

Serving and Pairings

These cupcakes are delightful on their own but pair wonderfully with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a tropical fruit salad for a refreshing dessert experience.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. They can also be refrigerated for up to a week. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds for a warm treat, but avoid freezing as it may alter texture.

Cooking Mistakes

Not draining the pineapple properly can make the cupcakes soggy.
Overmixing the batter can lead to dense cupcakes.
Not preheating the oven can cause uneven baking.
Using liners that aren’t non-stick may cause sticking.
Skipping the cooling step can lead to a messy flip.

Helpful Tips

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
Experiment with different fruits like peaches or cherries for variety.
Use a toothpick to check for doneness without overbaking.
Let cupcakes cool completely before storing or frosting.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, fresh pineapple can be used. Just ensure it’s peeled, cored, and sliced evenly for even cooking.

How do I prevent sticking when inverting the cupcakes?

Using non-stick liners or greasing the pan well can help prevent sticking when inverting.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

It’s best to bake the cupcakes right after mixing for optimal texture, but you can prepare the dry ingredients in advance.

What can I do if I don’t have a cupcake pan?

You can use a muffin tin as a substitute, but adjust the baking time as needed for larger portions.

Are these cupcakes suitable for freezing?

While they can be frozen, the texture may change. It’s best to enjoy them fresh for optimal taste.

Conclusion

Pineapple upside down cupcakes are a fun and delicious dessert that can brighten any occasion. With their tropical flavors and charming presentation, they are not only easy to make but also a delightful treat that everyone will love. Enjoy baking and savoring these delightful cupcakes!