Introduction
If you’re looking for a delightful twist on traditional cookies, these Pineapple Upside Sugar Cookies are just the ticket! Bursting with vibrant flavors and topped with a rich cream cheese frosting, they’re perfect for any occasion, from casual snacking to festive gatherings. Imagine biting into a soft, tender cookie with bursts of juicy pineapple — it’s like a tropical getaway in every bite. Let’s dive into this sweet treat that’s sure to become a favorite in your household!
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 32 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt until well blended. Set this mixture aside for later.
- In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, the consistency should be dreamy!
- Add in the egg and vanilla extract, beating until everything is well combined and the mixture is smooth.
- Gradually incorporate the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix!
- Gently fold in the crushed pineapple, ensuring that it’s evenly distributed throughout the dough for those delightful bursts of flavor.
- Using a tablespoon, drop balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie to allow for spreading.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges turn lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
- While the cookies are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and lemon juice, mixing until you have a creamy, luscious frosting.
- Once the cookies have cooled completely, generously spread the cream cheese frosting on top of each cookie, creating a sweet and tangy layer that perfectly complements the pineapple.
Notes or Tips
- Be sure to drain the crushed pineapple well to avoid soggy cookies.
- For a fun variation, try adding shredded coconut into the cookie batter for an extra tropical touch!
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe utilizes classic baking techniques like creaming and folding. Creaming the butter and sugar incorporates air into the mixture, creating a light texture. Folding in the crushed pineapple ensures that you maintain that lovely cake-like consistency, while still getting all the delicious tropical flavors in each bite.
FAQ
- Can I freeze these cookies? Yes! You can freeze the dough before baking or freeze the baked cookies after frosting. Just make sure to place them in an airtight container!
- What can I use instead of cream cheese for frosting? If you prefer a lighter frosting, you could whip up some whipped cream or use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.
- How can I make these cookies gluten-free? Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to achieve a similar texture.
Conclusion
Now that you have the recipe for these delicious Pineapple Upside Sugar Cookies, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get baking! With their vibrant flavor and creamy frosting, these cookies are bound to impress friends and family alike. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s bake up some happiness and bring a slice of tropical paradise into your kitchen!