Pineapple Upside Sugar Cookies (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Cookie Dough Base

01 - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
02 - 1 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1 large egg
04 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Dry Ingredients

05 - 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
06 - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
07 - 1/4 teaspoon salt

→ Pineapple Topping

08 - 10-12 canned pineapple rings, well drained and patted completely dry
09 - Extra granulated sugar for sprinkling on top

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
02 - In a large bowl, beat softened butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until light, fluffy, and pale, about 3 to 4 minutes.
03 - Beat in egg and vanilla extract until mixture is smooth and fully combined.
04 - Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl.
05 - Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, stirring just until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to maintain tenderness.
06 - Using about 1 1/2 tablespoons of dough per cookie, roll into balls. Place on prepared baking sheets and gently flatten each ball into a disk, spacing them evenly.
07 - Press one pineapple ring gently into the center of each dough disk to secure during baking.
08 - Lightly sprinkle granulated sugar atop each pineapple ring. Bake for 12 to 14 minutes until edges are golden and cookies are set.
09 - Allow cookies to cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before serving or storing.

# Notes:

01 - Ensure pineapple rings are thoroughly dried to prevent soggy cookies and to promote caramelization.