Pineapple Upside-Down Cupcakes are a delightful twist on the classic Pineapple Upside-Down Cake. These individual-sized treats are perfect for parties, potlucks, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. With a caramelized pineapple and cherry topping and a moist, fluffy cake base, these cupcakes are sure to impress. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and yields delicious results. Let’s dive into the details of how to make these irresistible cupcakes!
Recipe:
Pineapple Upside-Down Cupcakes combine the tropical flavors of pineapple and maraschino cherries with a buttery, caramelized topping and a tender vanilla cake. The cupcakes are baked upside-down, allowing the fruit to create a beautiful, glossy topping once flipped. This recipe makes approximately 12 cupcakes and is perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Ingredients:
For the Topping:
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1 can (20 oz) pineapple rings, drained and cut into small chunks
– Maraschino cherries, halved
For the Cupcakes:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup whole milk
Directions/Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners or grease the cups thoroughly to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the topping:
– In a small bowl, mix the melted butter and brown sugar until well combined.
– Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the mixture into the bottom of each muffin cup.
– Place a few small pineapple chunks and a cherry half on top of the butter-sugar mixture in each cup. Set aside.
3. 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 until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
– Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
– Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
4. Assemble the cupcakes:
– Spoon the batter evenly over the pineapple and cherry topping in each muffin cup, filling each about 2/3 full.
– Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to smooth the batter gently.
5. Bake the cupcakes:
– Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean.
– Remove the cupcakes from the oven and let them cool in the tin for 5 minutes.
6. Flip the cupcakes:
– Carefully run a knife around the edges of each cupcake to loosen them from the tin.
– Place a wire cooling rack or a baking sheet over the muffin tin, then quickly and confidently flip the tin upside down to release the cupcakes.
– Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before serving.
FAQ:
1. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple. Simply cut it into small chunks and ensure it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the cupcakes.
2. Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?
Absolutely! These cupcakes can be made a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature.
3. Can I use a different type of sugar for the topping?
Brown sugar is recommended for its caramel-like flavor, but you can experiment with coconut sugar or granulated sugar if needed.
4. How do I prevent the cupcakes from sticking to the pan?
Make sure to grease the muffin tin thoroughly or use high-quality cupcake liners. Running a knife around the edges before flipping also helps.
5. Can I freeze these cupcakes?
Yes, these cupcakes freeze well. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Conclusion:
Pineapple Upside-Down Cupcakes are a fun and delicious way to enjoy the classic flavors of pineapple upside-down cake in a portable, single-serving format. With their caramelized topping and moist cake base, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, this recipe is a must-try. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy these tropical-inspired treats! Happy baking!