Easy Pineapple Upside-Down Cupcakes Recipe – Sweet, Tropical, and Irresistible
Bring a taste of the tropics to your kitchen with these Easy Pineapple Upside-Down Cupcakes! Perfectly moist, topped with caramelized pineapple and cherries, and bursting with flavor, these cupcakes are a fun twist on the classic dessert. Ideal for parties, potlucks, or a sweet treat at home, this recipe is simple, quick, and sure to impress.
Prep & cook Time: 40 minutes | Calories: Approximately 220 kcal per cupcake
Ingredients
For the Topping:
6 pineapple rings (canned or fresh), cut into smaller pieces
6 maraschino cherries
3 tbsp (45g) unsalted butter, melted
⅓ cup (70g) packed light brown sugar
For the Cupcake Batter:
1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
1 ½ tsp baking powder
¼ tsp salt
½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
½ cup (120ml) whole milk
Directions
Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with parchment liners or grease thoroughly.
Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter and brown sugar. Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the mixture into the bottom of each muffin cup. Place a few pieces of pineapple and a cherry in each cup, pressing gently into the sugar mixture.
Make the Batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Fill the Cups: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full.
Bake: Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Invert: Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then carefully invert them onto a wire rack or serving plate. Allow them to cool completely before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, fresh pineapple works beautifully. Just make sure to cut it into small, thin pieces to fit the muffin cups.
2. Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?
Absolutely! Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.
3. Can I use a different type of fruit?
Yes, you can experiment with other fruits like peaches or mangoes, but pineapple and cherries are classic for this recipe.
4. How do I prevent the topping from sticking to the pan?
Ensure the muffin cups are well-greased or use parchment liners. Invert the cupcakes while they’re still slightly warm.
5. Can I freeze these cupcakes?
Yes, freeze the cupcakes (without toppings) in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and add fresh toppings before serving.
Tools You'll Need
12-cup muffin tin
Parchment liners or non-stick spray
Mixing bowls (medium and large)
Electric mixer or stand mixer
Whisk
Spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Wire cooling rack
Tips
Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter.
Don’t overmix the batter to ensure a light and fluffy texture.
For extra flavor, add a splash of pineapple juice to the batter.
Garnish with additional cherries or a drizzle of caramel sauce for a stunning presentation.
Allergy Information
Contains: Wheat, Dairy, Eggs
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free butter and milk alternatives.
Conclusion
These Pineapple Upside-Down Cupcakes are a delightful and easy-to-make treat that brings a tropical twist to your dessert table. With their caramelized pineapple topping, moist cake, and vibrant cherries, they’re as beautiful as they are delicious. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, these cupcakes are sure to bring joy to everyone who tries them. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share your results – they’re bound to be a hit! Happy baking!
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