If you are looking to brighten your cookie game with a tropical twist, this Pineapple Upside Sugar Cookies Recipe is an absolute must-try. Combining soft, buttery sugar cookies with the juicy sweetness of pineapple rings creates a delightful harmony of flavors and textures that’s simply irresistible. Each cookie boasts a golden edge and a sparkling sugar-topped pineapple centerpiece, turning a classic treat into a sunny celebration of taste and charm. Whether you’re baking for a party or a cozy afternoon snack, these cookies bring warmth and cheer in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture in this Pineapple Upside Sugar Cookies Recipe. Each component plays an important role, from the creamy butter that keeps the cookies tender to the vanilla that adds aromatic depth.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides a rich, creamy base essential for tender cookies.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens and adds that classic sugary crunch when sprinkled on top.
- 1 egg: Binds the dough together for perfect consistency.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses warm, inviting flavor that complements the pineapple.
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour: The structure that holds everything together without weighing it down.
- ½ tsp baking soda: Helps the cookies rise just enough for a tender bite.
- ¼ tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all flavors.
- 10–12 canned pineapple rings, well-drained and patted dry: The star ingredient that adds juicy sweetness and bright color.
- Additional sugar for sprinkling: Creates a sparkling finish that catches the eye and adds texture.
How to Make Pineapple Upside Sugar Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheets
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures an even bake so the cookies turn out perfectly soft and golden. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is key to giving your cookies a delicate texture and a lovely rise.
Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined, adding moisture and flavor that will infuse each cookie with that unmistakable warmth you crave in a homemade treat.
Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Then gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring just until a soft dough forms—don’t overmix, or the cookies could become tough.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Roll the dough into balls about 1½ tablespoons each, then gently flatten them slightly. Place the dough discs evenly spaced on your prepared baking sheets, keeping in mind they will spread a bit while baking.
Step 6: Add the Pineapple Rings
Top each cookie dough disc with a pineapple ring, pressing it gently into the dough to secure it. This beautiful topping transforms your simple sugar cookie into a tropical delight.
Step 7: Sprinkle with Sugar
For an extra touch of sparkle and crunch, sprinkle a little additional granulated sugar directly over the pineapple rings. This detail not only adds sweetness but gives the cookies an irresistible shimmer.
Step 8: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake your cookies for 12 to 14 minutes, or until the edges turn a warm golden brown. Once out of the oven, allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack—this helps them set without losing their tender texture.
How to Serve Pineapple Upside Sugar Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey over the cooled cookies adds an elegant touch. Fresh mint leaves can also provide a lovely aroma and a pop of green that pairs beautifully with the yellow pineapple.
Side Dishes
Pair these cookies with a creamy vanilla ice cream or a cup of strong black coffee to balance the fruity sweetness. A tropical fruit salad with shredded coconut or a light citrus sorbet can also complement the flavors wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange your Pineapple Upside Sugar Cookies Recipe on a vibrant platter lined with banana leaves to bring a tropical vibe to any gathering. You could also serve them stacked with layers of whipped cream or mascarpone cheese for a playful cookie sandwich twist that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and chewy for up to 3 days, making them perfect to bake in advance for a party or a special treat throughout the week.
Freezing
If you want to freeze these gems, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They can last up to 2 months this way and thaw beautifully without losing texture.
Reheating
Warm your cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes to rejuvenate their soft, buttery texture and refresh that pineapple’s juiciness. Avoid the microwave as it can make them too soft or soggy.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned for this recipe?
Fresh pineapple works best if it is well-drained and sliced evenly. You want to avoid added moisture that might make the cookie dough soggy, so pat the rings dry thoroughly before topping your cookies.
What if I do not have baking soda? Can I use baking powder?
Baking soda is ideal here for a tender crumb, but if you substitute with baking powder, use about three times the amount and be aware the texture might be slightly different—more cake-like rather than chewy.
How do I keep the pineapple rings from releasing too much juice during baking?
Make sure your pineapple rings are thoroughly drained and patted dry before placing them on the dough. Using canned pineapple often results in less moisture than fresh, but drying is crucial either way to keep the cookies from becoming soggy.
Can these cookies be made gluten-free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking. Just check that your blend includes xanthan gum or another binder to keep the dough from crumbling.
How long will these cookies last once baked?
Stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies stay delicious for up to three days. For longer-lasting freshness, consider freezing the baked cookies as described earlier.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly joyful about making and sharing the Pineapple Upside Sugar Cookies Recipe. It’s not just about the flavors—the way the golden pineapple rings rest atop tender, buttery sugar cookies makes every bite a small celebration. Whether you are baking for friends, family, or just treating yourself, these cookies bring a sunny, happy vibe that is hard to resist. Give this recipe a go and watch smiles bloom!
Print
Pineapple Upside Sugar Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Total Time: 29 minutes
- Yield: 12 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these Pineapple Upside Sugar Cookies, a scrumptious twist on classic sugar cookies topped with juicy pineapple rings. The tender, buttery cookie base perfectly complements the sweet, caramelized pineapple for a tropical treat that’s both visually stunning and delicious.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
Topping
- 10–12 canned pineapple rings, well-drained and patted dry
- Additional sugar for sprinkling
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, use a mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color, which helps create tender cookies.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract into the creamed mixture until fully combined and smooth, enriching the dough’s flavor.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and seasoning before adding to the wet ingredients.
- Combine Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms without overworking, to keep cookies tender.
- Form Cookie Bases: Roll the dough into 1½ tablespoon-sized balls, flatten them slightly with your hand or a utensil, and arrange them spaced apart on the prepared baking sheet.
- Add Pineapple Topping: Gently press one well-drained pineapple ring onto each flattened dough disk, ensuring it adheres without breaking the cookie base.
- Sprinkle Sugar: Lightly sprinkle additional granulated sugar over the pineapple rings to add sparkle and enhance caramelization during baking.
- Bake Cookies: Place baking sheets into the preheated oven and bake for 12–14 minutes or until the cookie edges turn golden brown, indicating they are done.
- Cool: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, helping them set and avoid breaking.
Notes
- Make sure pineapple rings are thoroughly drained and patted dry to prevent soggy cookies.
- Flatten dough balls gently to ensure even baking under the pineapple.
- Adjust baking time slightly if your oven runs hot or cool, watching for golden edges as your doneness cue.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon sugar on the pineapple before baking.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.
