Pineapple Upside Down Cupcakes
Pineapple Upside Down Cupcakes are a delightful treat that combines the tropical flavor of pineapple with the sweetness of cherries and brown sugar. These individual-sized cakes are not only delicious but also visually appealing. In this article, we’ll explore the step-by-step process of making Pineapple Upside Down Cupcakes, highlighting the key ingredients and sharing some expert tips for a perfect outcome.
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Before we dive into the baking process, let’s take a closer look at the essential ingredients that make Pineapple Upside Down Cupcakes so scrumptious.
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| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sliced pineapple (drained, juice reserved) | 1 can (20 oz) |
| Yellow cake mix | 1 box |
| Vegetable oil | 1/2 cup |
| Eggs | 3 |
| Butter (melted) | 1/3 cup |
| Brown sugar (packed) | 2/3 cup |
| Maraschino cherries (cut in half) | 12 |
Baking Pineapple Upside Down Cupcakes
Preparing the Pineapple
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
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- Slice the Pineapple: Take the canned pineapple and drain the slices, reserving the juice for later use.
- Melt the Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter until it’s in liquid form.
- Layer the Brown Sugar: Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly into each cupcake liner, creating a sweet base for your cupcakes.
- Add Pineapple Slices: Place a pineapple slice on top of the brown sugar in each cupcake liner. You can also cut the slices into smaller pieces to fit better.
Preparing the Cake Batter
- Prepare the Cake Mix: In a mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, vegetable oil, eggs, and the reserved pineapple juice. Mix until the batter is smooth and well combined.
- Fill the Cupcake Liners: Pour the cake batter over the pineapple slices, filling each liner about two-thirds full.
- Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean.
- Cool and Flip: Allow the cupcakes to cool in the tin for a few minutes, then carefully invert them onto a serving platter. The pineapple slices and brown sugar will now be on top.
Expert Tips for Perfect Pineapple Upside Down Cupcakes
- To enhance the flavor, consider adding a touch of vanilla extract to the cake batter.
- For a moist texture, avoid overmixing the batter.
- If you want an extra pop of color, use pineapple rings instead of slices.
- Ensure the cupcakes are completely cooled before serving to avoid any burns from the hot caramelized sugar.
