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These Pineapple Upside Sugar Cookies bring together the tropical brightness of pineapple with a soft, buttery cookie base. They are perfect for when you want a treat that feels fresh and summery without too much fuss. The sugary pineapple topping adds a delightful caramelized twist making each bite uniquely satisfying.
Ingredients
- One cup of unsalted butter: softened to room temperature brings richness and helps create a tender cookie
- One cup of granulated sugar: for sweetness and a slight crunch on top
- One large egg: binds the dough and adds moisture for softness
- One teaspoon of vanilla extract: gives warmth and depth complementing the pineapple
- Two and a half cups of all-purpose flour: provide structure—look for a fresh bag for best results
- Half a teaspoon of baking soda: acts as a leavening agent helping the cookies rise lightly
- Quarter teaspoon of salt: enhances flavor and balances the sweetness
- Ten to twelve canned pineapple rings: make sure they are well-drained and patted dry to avoid soggy cookies
- Extra granulated sugar for sprinkling: creates a caramelized sparkle on the pineapple when baked
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Scoop the Butter and Sugar:
- Cream together the softened butter and sugar in a large bowl using an electric mixer at medium speed. Beat until the mixture becomes light fluffy and pale this develops the cookie’s tender texture and ensures even sweetness which usually takes three to four minutes
- Add the Egg and Vanilla:
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and fully combined this ensures the flavors meld and the dough holds together
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl whisk flour baking soda and salt to ensure even distribution of the baking soda and salt which gives a consistent rise and flavor
- Combine Wet and Dry:
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet beating just until the dough forms soft and cohesive avoid overmixing as that can make the cookies tough
- Shape the Cookies:
- Use about one and a half tablespoons of dough for each cookie roll into balls and place on prepared baking sheets lining with parchment paper flatten gently into disks leaving space between as they will spread
- Top with Pineapple:
- Place a pineapple ring firmly on each dough disk pressing lightly so it stays on during baking
- Sprinkle Sugar:
- Dust the pineapple rings with extra granulated sugar for a caramelized crunchy topping
- Bake the Cookies:
- Place in the preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius for twelve to fourteen minutes until the edges are golden and the cookies are set
- Cool Down:
- Allow the cookies to rest on the baking sheet for five minutes for structure then move them to a wire rack to cool completely before storing or serving
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Storage Tips
Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature They will stay fresh for about five days Refrigerate in hot weather to keep the pineapple from becoming mushy
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for dietary needs Use fresh pineapple rings for a more vibrant tropical flavor but dry them well to prevent sogginess
Serving Suggestions
Serve these with a cup of hot tea or a cold glass of milk They can also be transformed into a fun dessert by adding a dollop of whipped cream on top
Cultural Context
Pineapple upside-down cakes have a long history as a classic American dessert The cookie version is a playful twist making the flavors portable and perfect for sharing
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of pineapple works best for these cookies?
Well-drained canned pineapple rings are ideal as they offer consistent sweetness and moisture levels, preventing excess sogginess in the cookies.
- → How do I keep the pineapple rings from sliding off during baking?
Gently press each pineapple ring onto the flattened dough disk to embed it slightly, which helps it adhere better while baking.
- → Can I substitute unsalted butter with salted butter?
Yes, but reduce or omit the additional salt in the dry ingredients to maintain a balanced flavor.
- → Why is it important to pat the pineapple dry before using?
Removing excess moisture from the pineapple helps prevent the cookie dough from becoming too wet and ensures a better texture.
- → What’s the best way to achieve a caramelized sugar topping?
Sprinkle a small amount of granulated sugar over the pineapple rings before baking; the heat will melt and caramelize it for a perfect glossy finish.
- → How long should the cookies cool before storing?
Allow cookies to cool completely on a wire rack after a short rest on the baking sheet, usually about 10-15 minutes, to set texture and prevent sogginess.