Ingredients
For the topping:
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
- ¾ cup (150g) packed brown sugar
- 8 pineapple rings (fresh or canned, drained)
- 8 maraschino cherries
For the cake batter:
- 1½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup (120ml) pineapple juice (from the can or fresh)
- ¼ cup (60ml) milk
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a muffin pan (makes about 8–10 cakes).
- Make the topping:
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter and brown sugar.
- Spoon about 1 tablespoon of this mixture into the bottom of each muffin cup.
- Place 1 pineapple ring on top (trim if needed).
- Add 1 maraschino cherry in the center of each ring.
- Make the cake batter:
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Alternate adding the dry ingredients with pineapple juice and milk, mixing just until smooth.
- Fill muffin cups:
- Spoon batter evenly over the pineapple rings (about ¾ full).
- Smooth the tops.
- Bake:
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and flip:
- Let the cakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes.
- Run a knife around the edges and carefully invert onto a tray or plate.
Tips
- You can sprinkle a pinch of shredded coconut in the topping for extra flavor.
- If you like them extra moist, brush the tops with leftover pineapple juice after flipping.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or refrigerate for 5 days.
Benefits
- Pineapple is rich in vitamin C and bromelain, great for digestion and immunity.
- Cherries add antioxidants and a pop of color.
- The mini size makes portion control easier and perfect for parties!
Conclusion
These Mini Pineapple Upside-Down Cakes are sweet, buttery, and bursting with tropical flavor. Whether for holidays, birthdays, or tea time, they’re a delightful treat that looks beautiful and tastes amazing
