Pineapple upside-down cake is a classic dessert, but sometimes you crave that delicious flavor in a quicker, bite-sized form. Enter: pineapple upside-down cake mix cookies! These delightful treats are surprisingly easy to make, using a cake mix as a base for incredible convenience and flavor. This recipe offers a fun twist on a familiar favorite, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings without the fuss of a full-sized cake.
What Makes These Cookies So Special?
These cookies stand out due to their simplicity and the incredible flavor combination. The cake mix provides a ready-made base, eliminating the need for precise measurements of flour, sugar, and leavening agents. The addition of pineapple chunks and maraschino cherries adds a delightful burst of sweet and tartness, mimicking the classic upside-down cake experience. They're also incredibly versatile – feel free to experiment with different types of pineapple and add-ins to create your own unique variations!
How to Make Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Mix Cookies
This recipe uses a yellow cake mix as a base, but feel free to experiment with other flavors like spice cake or even a funfetti mix!
Ingredients:
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 (20 ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained (reserve juice for later)
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, oil, and eggs. Beat with an electric mixer until well combined.
- Add pineapple and cherries: Stir in the drained pineapple, chopped cherries, and optional nuts. Mix until just combined – be careful not to overmix.
- Scoop and bake: Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
- Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
- Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Can I Use a Different Type of Cake Mix?
Yes! While yellow cake mix provides a classic base, you can experiment with other flavors to create unique variations. Spice cake mix would add a warm, autumnal twist, while a funfetti mix would result in colorful and festive cookies. The possibilities are endless!
What If I Don't Have Maraschino Cherries?
No problem! You can easily omit the cherries or substitute them with other dried fruits like chopped cranberries or raisins. Alternatively, you could add a different type of fruit like chopped peaches or mangoes for a unique flavor profile.
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Absolutely! These cookies are incredibly versatile. Consider adding:
- Chocolate chips: For a chocolate pineapple combination.
- Coconut flakes: To add a tropical twist.
- White chocolate chips: For a sweeter, more decadent treat.
- Macadamia nuts: For a luxurious upgrade.
Remember to adjust baking time slightly depending on the added ingredients and your oven.
How to Store Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Mix Cookies
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2 months.
This recipe provides a fun and easy way to enjoy the delicious flavors of pineapple upside-down cake in a convenient cookie format. Experiment with different ingredients and variations to create your own unique and delicious treat!
