Pineapple upside-down muffins are a delightful twist on the classic pineapple upside-down cake. These individual servings are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. The combination of sweet pineapple, rich caramel, and fluffy muffin batter creates a treat that’s both delicious and visually stunning.
Ingredients:
For the Muffins:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the base for the muffin batter, giving it structure and lightness.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps to tenderize the muffins.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Adds a hint of molasses flavor and extra moisture to the muffins.
- 2 tsp baking powder: Helps the muffins rise, making them light and fluffy.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Enhances the flavor of the muffins and balances the sweetness.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and moisture to the muffins.
- 1/2 cup milk: Provides moisture and helps to create a tender crumb.
- 1 egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds richness.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds a warm, sweet flavor that complements the pineapple.
- 1 cup pineapple chunks: The star of the show, adding sweet, juicy bites throughout the muffins.
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce: Drizzled on top of the pineapple, creating a sweet and sticky topping.
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pineapple Base:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line it with paper liners.
- Place a small spoonful of caramel sauce into the bottom of each muffin cup. The caramel will create a sticky, sweet base for the pineapple.
- Add a few chunks of pineapple on top of the caramel in each muffin cup. Try to spread the pineapple evenly across all the cups to ensure each muffin has a good amount of fruit.
2. Make the Muffin Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 2 tsp baking powder, and 1/4 tsp salt until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the 1/2 cup melted butter, 1/2 cup milk, 1 egg, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in dense muffins.
- Gently fold in the remaining pineapple chunks into the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
3. Assemble and Bake the Muffins:
- Carefully spoon the muffin batter over the pineapple and caramel in each muffin cup, filling each cup about 3/4 full.
- Tap the muffin tin gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles and help the batter settle.
- Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
4. Cool and Invert the Muffins:
- Remove the muffin tin from the oven and allow the muffins to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. This will help the caramel firm up slightly, making it easier to remove the muffins.
- Run a knife around the edges of each muffin to loosen them from the pan.
- Carefully invert the muffin tin onto a baking sheet or large plate, allowing the muffins to gently fall out with the caramel and pineapple on top.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the pineapple upside-down muffins warm or at room temperature. These muffins are delicious on their own or can be topped with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They can also be reheated in the microwave for a few seconds if you prefer them warm.
Tips for Success:
- Use Fresh or Canned Pineapple: You can use either fresh or canned pineapple chunks for this recipe. If using canned pineapple, make sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the muffins.
- Customize the Toppings: Feel free to add a maraschino cherry on top of each pineapple chunk before adding the batter for a classic touch.
- Don’t Overfill the Muffin Cups: Ensure that the muffin cups are only filled about 3/4 full to allow room for the muffins to rise without overflowing.
Why You’ll Love These Muffins:
- Individual Portions: These muffins are perfect for sharing and portion control, making them ideal for parties, picnics, or family gatherings.
- Easy to Make: Despite their impressive appearance, these muffins are simple to make with basic pantry ingredients.
- Delicious Combination: The blend of caramelized pineapple with a tender, buttery muffin is irresistible, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and tang.
Heavenly Pineapple Upside-Down Muffins are a delightful and unique twist on a beloved dessert. With their sticky-sweet topping and soft, flavorful base, these muffins are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Whether served for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, they are a treat that everyone will love. Enjoy the burst of tropical flavor in every bite!
