Pineapple Upside Sugar Cookies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines the comforting familiarity of sugar cookies with a fresh, fruity surprise. The buttery dough is soft and chewy, while the pineapple adds a bright note that lifts the flavor. They’re easy to bake and perfect whenever I want a sweet treat that feels a bit special without extra fuss.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1 egg

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.

4. Gradually add the flour (typically about 2 ¾ cups, not listed here) and mix until a soft dough forms.

5. Fold in crushed or finely chopped pineapple pieces for that “upside” flavor.

6. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

7. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.

8. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 24 cookies, depending on size. Preparation takes 10 minutes, with baking time of 10–12 minutes.

Variations

• Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for warm spice notes.

• Top cookies with a drizzle of glaze or a dusting of powdered sugar for extra sweetness.

• Mix in shredded coconut for a tropical texture boost.

• Use pineapple juice in place of some liquid in the dough for more pineapple flavor.

• Press a small pineapple chunk or a maraschino cherry on top before baking for a decorative touch.

Storage/Reheating

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To refresh slightly stale cookies, warm them briefly in the microwave or oven.

FAQs

Can I use canned pineapple?

Yes, just make sure to drain and pat dry to avoid excess moisture in the dough.

Is this dough suitable for rolling and cutting shapes?

With slight adjustments to flour, yes—you can chill the dough and roll it out for cut-out cookies.

Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, you can freeze the dough balls before baking and bake them straight from frozen, adding a minute or two to baking time.

How do I prevent cookies from spreading too much?

Chill the dough before baking and avoid too much butter or liquid in the dough.

Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?

Brown sugar will add moisture and a caramel flavor, which can be delicious but will change the texture slightly.

Conclusion

Pineapple Upside Sugar Cookies are a charming, easy-to-make treat that blends buttery sweetness with tropical flair. Whether for a casual snack or a festive gathering, these cookies bring a bright, delightful twist to classic sugar cookies that I always enjoy baking and sharing.

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