Delicious Pineapple Upside Down Cupcakes Recipe

Introduction

Pineapple upside down cupcakes offer a delightful twist on the traditional pineapple upside down cake. These individual-sized treats boast a moist and fluffy pineapple cake base, crowned with a luscious pineapple glaze. Perfect for any occasion, these cupcakes are sure to impress your friends and family.

Ingredients

• Cooking spray
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 1 1/2 cups brown sugar
• 24 maraschino cherries
• 1 (20 ounce) can crushed pineapple
• 1 (18.25 ounce) package pineapple cake mix (such as Duncan Hines® Pineapple Supreme)
• 3 eggs
• 1 1/3 cups pineapple juice
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon confectioners’ sugar for dusting, or as needed

Directions

1. Preparation: Position an oven rack in the middle of the oven and preheat to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Spray 24 muffin cups with cooking spray and line a work surface with waxed paper.
2. Prepare Cups: Spoon 1 teaspoon of melted butter into the bottom of each sprayed muffin cup. Follow by adding 1 tablespoon of brown sugar into each cup. Press a maraschino cherry into the center of the brown sugar in each cup. Spoon a heaping tablespoon of crushed pineapple over the cherry, compacting it with the back of a spoon into an even layer.
3. Mix Batter: In a large bowl, combine pineapple cake mix, eggs, pineapple juice, and vegetable oil using an electric mixer on low speed until moistened, about 30 seconds. Increase mixer speed to medium and mix for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Fill Cups: Pour pineapple cake batter into the prepared muffin cups, filling them to the top without overfilling.
5. Bake: Place the muffin trays in the preheated oven and bake until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean, approximately 20 minutes.
6. Cool and Serve: Allow the cupcakes to cool for at least 5 minutes before inverting the muffin cups onto the waxed paper to release them. Serve with pineapple and cherry sides up, and sprinkle lightly with confectioners’ sugar.

Tips

• For added flavor, consider using fresh pineapple instead of canned.
• To prevent the cupcakes from sticking to the muffin cups, ensure they are thoroughly greased with cooking spray.
• Experiment with different cake mix flavors for unique variations.

FAQs

Q: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
A: Yes, fresh pineapple can be used for a more vibrant flavor. Simply chop the pineapple into small pieces and use in place of the crushed canned pineapple.

Q: How do I prevent the cupcakes from sticking to the muffin cups?
A: Be generous with the cooking spray to thoroughly coat the muffin cups before adding the batter.

Q: Can I make these cupcakes in advance?
A: Yes, these cupcakes can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just be sure to sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar before serving.

Conclusion

Indulge in the irresistible combination of pineapple, cherries, and cake with these delectable pineapple upside down cupcakes. Whether served as a dessert or a sweet treat, they are guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering. Enjoy the tropical flavors in every bite!