Next, I take another bowl to whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually, I incorporate this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, combining until a dough forms. Once I’ve got my dough, I carefully fold in the crushed pineapple, making sure it’s evenly distributed. Oh, the scent of pineapple instantly transports me to a sunny beach! Now it’s time to scoop! Using a cookie scoop, I portion out the dough onto prepared baking sheets, leaving enough space for them to spread out during baking.
Now I like to add a maraschino cherry on top of each cookie for that classic pineapple upside-down cake touch. Before I pop them in the oven, I sprinkle a bit of brown sugar on top to enhance the caramelization as they bake. I bake them for about 12-15 minutes until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set. The aroma wafting through my kitchen during this time is pure bliss! Lastly, allow them to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack, where they can rest and finish firming up.
Pro Tips for Best Results
I’ve tested this recipe a few different ways to ensure the best flavor and texture. One of my favorite tips is to let the crushed pineapple drain thoroughly. If it’s too moist, it can affect the dough’s consistency and lead to flatter cookies. Don’t skip this step! Also, I found that chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking really helps the cookies hold their shape, resulting in thick and chewy cookies that are just to die for!
Another thing I’ve discovered is the importance of using fresh ingredients—especially when it comes to your baking powder and soda. Old ingredients can significantly impact the rise of your cookies. I’d recommend checking expiry dates before you start baking to make sure your cookies turn out perfectly fluffy.
And lastly, feel free to have fun with toppings! When I made a batch topped with shredded coconut along with the pineapple, it added a delightful texture and extra tropical flavor that made them feel like a vacation on a plate!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake I see people make is measuring out the flour incorrectly. I always fluff the flour before spooning it into the measuring cup to avoid packing it down. Too much flour can result in dry cookies, and nobody wants that! Remember, baking is a science, so accuracy is crucial. (See the next page below to continue…)