Mini Pineapple Upside-Down Cakes Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 12 maraschino cherries, drained
- 12 pineapple slices (canned or fresh)
- 1 box yellow cake mix (plus ingredients mentioned on the box, e.g., eggs, oil, water)
- Cooking spray or extra melted butter for greasing
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
- Prepare Cupcake Pan: Grease each hole of a cupcake pan generously with cooking spray or melted butter.
- Create Topping: In a small bowl, mix melted butter and brown sugar until well combined. Spoon a tablespoon of this mixture into the bottom of each cupcake hole.
- Add Fruits: Place one maraschino cherry in the center of each hole on top of the butter-sugar mixture. Add a pineapple slice on top of the cherry, ensuring it covers the bottom of the hole.
- Prepare Cake Batter: In a separate bowl, prepare the yellow cake mix according to the instructions on the box. Typically, this involves mixing the cake mix with eggs, oil, and water.
- Fill Cupcake Holes: Carefully fill each cupcake hole with the prepared cake batter, covering the cherries and pineapples.
- Bake: Place the cupcake pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cake comes out clean.
- Cooling: Allow the mini cakes to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
- Flipping: Place a tray or a large cutting board over the cupcake pan and carefully flip it over to release the mini pineapple upside-down cakes. Tap the bottom of the pan if needed to ensure all cakes come out.
- Serve: Allow the cakes to cool completely before serving. Enjoy these delightful mini pineapple upside-down cakes with their perfect blend of caramelized sweetness and tropical flavors!
These mini cakes are sure to be a hit at any gathering or as a sweet treat for yourself
Here are some tips to enhance your Mini Pineapple Upside-Down Cakes:
- Use Fresh Pineapple: If available, consider using fresh pineapple slices instead of canned ones for a more vibrant and intense pineapple flavor. Ensure they are thinly sliced and well-drained to prevent excess moisture.
- Enhance Topping Flavor: Add a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the melted butter and brown sugar mixture for an extra layer of flavor in the topping.
- Quality Cherries: Opt for high-quality maraschino cherries to ensure a rich and sweet flavor. You can also use fresh pitted cherries for a different twist.
- Customize Cake Mix: Experiment with the cake mix by adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or pineapple juice for a boost of flavor. You can also consider using a butter cake mix for a richer taste.
- Pineapple Juice Glaze: Brush the cooled cakes with a light pineapple juice glaze for added moisture and a shiny finish. Mix pineapple juice with a bit of powdered sugar until you achieve a smooth consistency.
- Serve with Whipped Cream or Ice Cream: Enhance the serving experience by serving the mini cakes with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy texture complements the sweetness of the cakes.
- Individual Flavors: Consider personalizing each cake by adding a sprinkle of shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or a drizzle of caramel sauce to some of them for variety.
- Ensure Proper Greasing: Make sure to grease the cupcake pan thoroughly to prevent the cakes from sticking. This ensures they release easily when flipped.
- Test for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check the doneness of the cakes. Insert it into the center of a cake, and if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter), the cakes are ready.
- Cooling Time: Allow the cakes to cool in the pan for the recommended time to let them set properly. This helps in easy flipping without breaking.
- Presentation: Arrange the mini pineapple upside-down cakes on a serving platter and garnish with additional pineapple slices or mint leaves for a visually appealing presentation.
- Make Ahead: These mini cakes can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container. Warm them slightly before serving if desired.
