Pineapple Upside Down Cookies
These Pineapple Upside Down Cookies combine the nostalgic flavors of classic pineapple upside down cake into portable, bite-sized treats. Featuring caramelized pineapple chunks, brown sugar sweetness, and a soft yet slightly chewy texture, these cookies are perfect for casual gatherings, special celebrations, or an everyday snack.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12-15 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Can be made Gluten Free or Vegan with substitutions
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (divided)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened, divided)
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Prepare the Pineapple Topping: Heat 1/4 cup brown sugar and 1/4 cup butter in a small pan over medium heat until melted and bubbly. Stir in the pineapple chunks until they are well coated and caramelized, creating the sticky sweet pineapple topping.
- Mix the Cookie Dough: In a mixing bowl, cream together the remaining 1/4 cup butter and 1/4 cup brown sugar until smooth. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract. Gradually add the flour, baking powder, and salt, stirring until a slightly sticky but manageable dough forms.
- Assemble the Cookies: Using a cookie scoop or spoon, portion dough into a greased muffin tin or on a greased baking sheet. Press gently to form cookie bases. Spoon a generous amount of the pineapple topping over each dough portion, ensuring some pineapple pieces remain visible on top for presentation.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 12-15 minutes or until the edges turn golden and the pineapple topping appears caramelized. Avoid overbaking to maintain softness.
- Cool and Enjoy: Let the cookies cool for 5-10 minutes before removing from the pan or baking sheet. This resting allows the caramelized pineapple topping to set and prevents sticking.
Notes
- Use fresh pineapple chunks when possible for better caramelization and brighter flavor.
- Do not overmix the dough to avoid tough cookies—mix just until combined.
- Grease your muffin tin or baking sheet thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Allow cookies to cool before removing to let caramel set properly.
- Taste the pineapple topping and adjust sweetness by adding more brown sugar if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1.5g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: pineapple, upside down, cookies, caramelized, brown sugar, tropical, dessert, bite-sized, party snacks