Pineapple Upside Down Cupcakes
Delightful individual cupcakes featuring caramelized pineapple and a tender yellow cake base, perfect for parties or a sweet treat.
Ingredients
Cupcake Base
- 1 box yellow cake mix (plus ingredients listed on box: typically eggs, oil, and water)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 can (20 oz) pineapple slices in juice, drained (reserve juice for cake mix)
- 12 maraschino cherries, stems removed
- Cooking spray or extra butter for greasing
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard 12-cup muffin tin generously with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- In a small bowl, mix the melted butter and brown sugar until well combined. Spoon about 1 teaspoon of this mixture into the bottom of each muffin cup, spreading it evenly.
- Place one pineapple slice in each muffin cup on top of the brown sugar mixture. If the slices are too large, trim them to fit. Place a maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple ring.
- Prepare the yellow cake mix according to package instructions, substituting the water with reserved pineapple juice for extra flavor. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the cake batter over the pineapple and cherry layers, filling each cup about 2/3 full to allow room for rising.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the tops are lightly golden.
Cooling
- Remove the cupcakes from the oven and let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes to allow the topping to set slightly.
- Gently run a knife around the edges of each cupcake to loosen them. Carefully invert the muffin tin onto a baking sheet or serving platter, tapping lightly to release the cupcakes. Let them cool for a few more minutes before serving.
Notes
For perfect cupcakes, use a non-stick muffin tin and grease it well. Do not overfill the cups—keeping them 2/3 full prevents overflow and ensures even baking. You may also substitute pineapple juice for water in the cake mix for a more intense flavor. For a gourmet touch, add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the brown sugar mixture.