A tropical twist on a classic dessert, these Pineapple Upside-Down Cupcakes are moist, sweet, and bursting with pineapple flavor. Topped with caramelized brown sugar, juicy pineapple, and a bright maraschino cherry, these individual treats are perfect for any occasion.
1(18.25 oz)package pineapple cake mixsuch as Duncan Hines® Pineapple Supreme
1 1/3cupspineapple juicereserved from the crushed pineapple
3large eggs
1/3cupvegetable oil
1tbspconfectioners' sugaroptional, for dusting
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray 24 muffin cups with cooking spray.
Place 1 teaspoon of melted butter into each muffin cup. Add 1 tablespoon of brown sugar on top of the butter, then press a maraschino cherry into the center. Spoon a heaping tablespoon of crushed pineapple over the cherry and brown sugar mixture, pressing down gently to create an even layer.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the pineapple cake mix, reserved pineapple juice, eggs, and vegetable oil. Mix on low speed for 30 seconds, then increase speed to medium and beat for 2 minutes until smooth.
Pour the prepared cake batter into the muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Run a knife around the edges to loosen them, then carefully invert the muffin tin onto a baking sheet lined with wax paper.
For an extra touch of sweetness, dust the tops of the cupcakes with confectioners' sugar before serving.
Notes
For a fun twist, try adding a bit of coconut flakes to the topping for extra tropical flavor.