Pineapple Upside Sugar Cookies

Name: Pineapple Upside Sugar Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 29 min
Cuisine: Tropical
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2½ cups all-purpose flour; ½ tsp baking soda; ¼ tsp salt; 10–12 canned pineapple rings, well-drained and patted dry; Additional sugar for sprinkling

by Peter Harper

Published on: December 2, 2025

Pineapple Upside Sugar Cookies with tropical pineapple flavor and icing

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Pineapple Upside Sugar Cookies are a delightful treat that combine the sweetness of sugar cookies with the bright, tropical flavor of pineapple. These golden, slightly chewy cookies are topped with juicy pineapple rings that caramelize beautifully in the oven, releasing a sweet aroma that fills the kitchen. Perfect for summer gatherings or cozy bake days, these cookies are not only quick and easy to prepare but also bring a burst of sunshine to any plate, making them a special addition to your dessert repertoire.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll fall in love with Pineapple Upside Sugar Cookies for countless reasons. They are the perfect treat to brighten up parties, holiday gatherings, or quiet evenings at home. With just a few simple ingredients, they come together quickly, making them ideal for last-minute dessert cravings or surprise guests. The combination of buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookie paired with the fresh taste of pineapple is simply delightful. You can easily adjust the recipe for various occasions—whether you want to make a batch for a summertime barbecue or a cozy holiday cookie swap.

Seasonal Ingredients Spotlight

Using fresh, local ingredients is key to a delicious batch of Pineapple Upside Sugar Cookies. For the best results, choose ripe, sweet pineapples that are bursting with golden color and tropical fragrance. The natural sweetness of the fruit, combined with the rich, buttery cookie dough, creates a vibrant contrast and wonderful texture when baked. The colors of the cookies, bright yellow from the pineapple and a warm golden-brown from the sugar cookies, create an inviting presentation that celebrates the seasonality of fruit. Utilizing sustainable produce not only enhances flavor but also supports local farmers and promotes healthier eating habits.

What You’ll Need

Ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened (for a creamy texture)
1 cup granulated sugar (adds sweetness and helps with browning)
1 egg (binds the ingredients)
1 tsp vanilla extract (enhances flavor)
2½ cups all-purpose flour (for structure)
½ tsp baking soda (provides lift)
¼ tsp salt (balances sweetness)
10–12 canned pineapple rings, well-drained and patted dry (fresh fruit can work, but canned is convenient)
Additional sugar for sprinkling (adds sparkle and extra sweetness)

Feel free to substitute coconut oil for butter for a dairy-free option or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free alternative. The texture and flavor might vary slightly, but the cookies will still be delicious!

How to Make This Recipe

1. Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking and a golden finish on your cookies.

2. Prepare Baking Sheets
Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

3. Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. The aroma will be sweet and buttery, a good sign that you’re on the right track.

4. Add Egg and Vanilla
Beat in the egg and the vanilla extract until well combined, creating a smooth, cohesive mixture.

5. Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. It should have a smooth, slightly tacky texture.

6. Shape the Cookies
Roll the dough into 1½ tbsp balls, then flatten them slightly before placing them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.

7. Add Pineapple Rings
Top each flattened dough disk with a pineapple ring, pressing it gently into the dough.

8. Sprinkle with Sugar
Sprinkle additional sugar on top of each pineapple ring for a sparkling finish that adds sweetness.

9. Bake
Place the baking sheets in the oven for 12–14 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the cookies are set. Your kitchen will fill with a heavenly aroma!

10. Cool and Serve
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy the combination of soft cookies and sweet, juicy pineapple!

Essential Tools

Mixing bowls (for combining ingredients)
An electric mixer or whisk (for creaming butter and sugar)
Measuring cups and spoons (for precise measurements)
Cookie sheets (lined with parchment paper)
Rolling pin (optional, if you prefer to roll out the dough)
Wire rack (for cooling the cookies)

Meal Prep & Storage Tips

To enjoy these delicious cookies over several days, consider making them ahead of time. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, place them in the freezer stacked between layers of parchment paper, where they can last for up to 3 months. Simply thaw at room temperature before enjoying again!

Perfect Pairings

These Pineapple Upside Sugar Cookies pair wonderfully with a tall glass of cold milk or a refreshing coconut water. For a delightful dessert spread, serve them alongside a tropical fruit salad or a scoop of coconut ice cream. The vibrant colors and flavors of the cookies along with your chosen beverages will create a beautiful and enticing presentation.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: ~180 kcal
Fat: 8 g
Carbohydrates: 24 g
Protein: 3 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 14 g

Avoid These Common Pitfalls

Dough Too Dry
If your dough is too dry, try adding a splash of milk until it reaches a pliable consistency.

Cookies Spread Too Much
If your cookies spread too much while baking, ensure your butter is softened but not melted, as too much warmth can cause the dough to lose its shape.

Pineapple Rings Burn
To prevent pineapple rings from burning, keep an eye on your cookies in the last few minutes of baking and consider rotating the pan for even cooking.

Pro Tips for Best Results

Use room temperature ingredients for even mixing and better texture.
Don’t skip the step of patting the pineapple dry; this prevents excess moisture from making the cookies soggy.
Experiment with coconut extract in place of vanilla for a tropical twist.

Recipe Variations to Explore

Coconut Delight: Add shredded coconut to the dough for added flavor and texture.
Chocolate Drizzle: Melt dark chocolate to drizzle over the cooled cookies for a decadent touch.
Nutty Flavor: Incorporate chopped macadamia nuts or walnuts for a tasty crunch.

Dietary Adaptations & Safety Info

For those with dietary restrictions, you can make these cookies vegan by replacing the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water) and using dairy-free butter. For gluten-free cookies, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh pineapples instead of canned?
Yes, fresh pineapple can be used, but ensure it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture.

2. How do I store leftovers?
Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, or freeze for longer storage.

3. Can I make these cookies vegan?
Yes, substitute the egg with a flaxseed egg and replace butter with a dairy-free option.

4. How long can I freeze these cookies?
They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw before serving.

5. What’s the best way to serve these cookies?
They’re delicious on their own but pair wonderfully with milk or coconut ice cream.

Final Thoughts & Next Steps

With their tropical twist and delightful taste, Pineapple Upside Sugar Cookies are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Join the fun and share your creations! Feel free to leave a comment below or tag your delicious cookie photos. For more delightful dessert recipes, explore our collection here: {internal_link_2}.