Pineapple Upside-Down Cupcakes

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Introduction

Pineapple Upside-Down Cupcakes are a fun, individual-sized twist on the classic pineapple upside-down cake. These cupcakes feature caramelized pineapple, buttery brown sugar topping, and a soft, moist vanilla cake. Bright, nostalgic, and eye-catching, they are perfect for parties, potlucks, and family desserts.

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Ingredients

For the Pineapple Topping

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • ¾ cup brown sugar
  • Pineapple rings or chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
  • Maraschino cherries (optional)

For the Cupcake Batter

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup milk

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Pan & Topping

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. Grease a muffin tin well.
  3. Spoon melted butter and brown sugar into each cup.
  4. Add pineapple pieces and a cherry if using.

2. Make the Batter

  1. Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.
  2. Cream butter and sugar until light.
  3. Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla.
  4. Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk.
  5. Mix until just combined.

3. Assemble & Bake

  1. Spoon batter over pineapple topping, filling ¾ full.
  2. Bake 20–22 minutes until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.

4. Flip & Cool

  1. Cool cupcakes for 5 minutes.
  2. Carefully invert onto a tray.
  3. Let cool completely before serving.

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Methods (Primary Baking Methods)

  • Creaming method for tender crumb
  • Caramelization method for pineapple topping
  • Inversion technique for presentation
  • Gentle mixing to avoid dense cupcakes

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History

The original pineapple upside-down cake became popular in the early 20th century when canned pineapple became widely available. Home bakers embraced the upside-down method for its dramatic presentation. Cupcake versions emerged later as single-serve desserts grew in popularity, keeping the classic flavors while adding modern convenience.

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Benefits

  • Built-in topping (no frosting needed)
  • Portion-controlled dessert
  • Pineapple adds natural sweetness
  • Great make-ahead treat
  • Visually impressive with minimal effort

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Formation (Structure & Texture)

  • Top (after flipping): Sticky caramelized pineapple
  • Middle: Moist, buttery cake
  • Bottom: Light golden cupcake base

Each cupcake delivers sweet, fruity, and buttery flavors in perfect balance.

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Lovers (Who Loves These Cupcakes?)

  • Fans of classic desserts
  • Pineapple lovers
  • Party hosts and guests
  • Kids and adults alike
  • Home bakers who love nostalgic treats

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Methods (Repeated as Requested)

  • Even distribution of topping
  • Proper pan greasing
  • Quick inversion while warm
  • Cooling before handling

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Conclusion

Pineapple Upside-Down Cupcakes capture all the charm of the traditional cake in a fun, handheld form. With their caramelized fruit topping and soft cake base, they offer a beautiful balance of flavor, texture, and presentation—perfect for any occasion.

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