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Pineapple Upside Down Cupcakes

Pineapple Upside Down Cupcakes

Pineapple Upside Down Cupcakes are a delightful tropical twist on classic pineapple upside down cake, featuring juicy caramelized pineapple slices atop moist, tender cupcakes with a rich brown sugar and buttery topping. Perfectly sized for easy portion control, these cupcakes bring a burst of tropical flavor and sunshine to any occasion, whether as a party treat, snack, or lunchbox favorite.

Ingredients

Topping

  • Fresh pineapple slices (for topping)
  • Brown sugar (for caramelizing the topping)
  • Butter (for melting with brown sugar)

Batter

  • All-purpose flour
  • Baking powder
  • Sugar
  • Eggs
  • Butter (melted)
  • Milk or buttermilk
  • Vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Topping: Melt butter and brown sugar together until glossy caramel forms. Spoon this mixture into the bottom of each cupcake liner, then press a fresh pineapple slice on top to create the signature caramelized topping during baking.
  2. Make the Batter: Whisk together flour, baking powder, and sugar in one bowl. In another bowl, combine eggs, melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract. Gradually mix wet ingredients into dry until smooth and free of lumps.
  3. Assemble the Cupcakes: Pour the batter carefully over the pineapple and caramel topping in each liner, filling about two-thirds full to allow proper rising without overflow.
  4. Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The caramelized pineapple topping will meld with the moist batter during baking.
  5. Cool and Invert: After baking, cool the cupcakes for 5 minutes in the pan. Gently invert onto a wire rack or plate to reveal the golden pineapple topping, transforming the cupcakes into an irresistible treat.

Notes

  • Use fresh pineapple for juicier, brighter flavor; canned pineapple works as a substitute if needed.
  • Prevent sticking by using silicone cupcake liners or well-greasing your pans.
  • Do not overfill cupcake liners—fill only two-thirds full to avoid batter spilling over.
  • Oven temperatures vary; start checking cupcakes at 18 minutes to prevent overbaking.
  • Let cupcakes cool slightly before flipping to maintain the integrity of the caramelized topping.

Nutrition

Keywords: pineapple upside down cupcakes, tropical cupcakes, caramelized pineapple, bite-sized cupcakes, party dessert