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Introduction:
Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is a beloved classic dessert, known for its caramelized pineapple rings and cherries nestled atop a buttery cake.
But what if we took that same delicious concept and transformed it into individual-sized treats? Enter Pineapple Upside-Down Cupcakes—a delightful, tropical twist on the traditional cake that’s perfect for parties, gatherings, or simply indulging in a sweet moment.
These cupcakes are not only visually stunning but also bursting with flavor, combining the tangy sweetness of pineapple with a moist, tender cake.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to create these beautiful and delicious Pineapple Upside-Down Cupcakes.
The recipe is easy to follow and the results are sure to impress your family and friends.
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Whether you’re serving them at a summer barbecue or enjoying them as a midweek treat, these cupcakes are sure to become a favorite.
Pineapple Upside-Down Cupcakes
Ingredients:
For the Topping:
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, drained (reserve the juice)
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Maraschino cherries (optional, for garnish)
For the Cupcakes:
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
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1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup pineapple juice (from the drained can)
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1/4 cup milk
For the Optional Drizzle:
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1-2 tablespoons pineapple juice
Instructions:
Prepare the Topping:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin generously with butter or non-stick spray.
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter and brown sugar together until well combined.
Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the butter-sugar mixture into the bottom of each muffin cup. Place a few pineapple chunks on top of the sugar mixture, pressing them down gently. If you’re using maraschino cherries, place one in the center of each cup.
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Make the Cupcake Batter:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy,about 2-3 minutes.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
In a small bowl, combine the pineapple juice and milk.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the pineapple juice mixture. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter.
Assemble the Cupcakes:
Spoon the cupcake batter evenly over the pineapple chunks in each muffin cup, filling each cup about 2/3 full.
Gently tap the muffin tin on the counter to remove any air bubbles and to help the batter settle.
Bake the Cupcakes:
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cupcakes comes out clean.
Remove the cupcakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes.
Invert and Cool:
Run a knife around the edges of each cupcake to loosen them from the pan. Place a baking sheet or a large platter over the top of the muffin tin, then carefully invert the tin to release the cupcakes. The caramelized pineapple topping should now be on top of each cupcake.
Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before serving.
Optional Pineapple Drizzle:
For an extra touch of sweetness, you can drizzle the cupcakes with a simple pineapple glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and pineapple juice until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cupcakes just before serving.
Serve and Enjoy:
These Pineapple Upside-Down Cupcakes are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Serve the cupcakes as they are, or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Conclusion:
Pineapple Upside-Down Cupcakes are a delightful way to enjoy the classic flavors of a traditional pineapple upside-down cake in a fun, individual-sized treat.
The combination of sweet, caramelized pineapple and moist, buttery cake makes these cupcakes irresistible, and their charming presentation is sure to impress at any gathering.
This recipe is easy to follow and yields consistently delicious results, making it a great choice for bakers of all skill levels.
Whether you’re making these cupcakes for a special occasion or just because, they’re sure to bring a taste of tropical sunshine to your table.
So, the next time you’re in the mood for something sweet and a little bit special, give these Pineapple Upside-Down Cupcakes a try.
They’re a wonderful way to enjoy a classic dessert in a new and exciting form, and they’re guaranteed to put a smile on everyone’s face. Enjoy!
