Mini Pineapple Upside-Down Cakes

Craving a tropical treat that’s both adorable and scrumptious? Look no further than these Mini Pineapple Upside-Down Cakes! Bursting with the flavors of pineapple and cherries, these individual-sized delights are perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to elegant soirées. Let’s dive into how to whip up these delectable treats in your own kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 2 boxes of pineapple-flavored cake mix
• 6 eggs
• 1 cup of oil
• 2 cups of pineapple juice
• 2 sticks of unsalted butter
• 2 cups of brown sugar
• 2 cans of pineapple slices
• 1 small jar of maraschino cherries

Step-by-Step Preparation:

1. Create the Caramel Base: Begin by heating the unsalted butter in a saucepan until melted. Add in the brown sugar and stir until the mixture transforms into a rich caramel. This will be the luscious base of your mini cakes.
2. Prepare the Molds: Lightly grease your cupcake molds with oil, ensuring a thin coating to prevent sticking. A quick wipe with a paper towel should do the trick.
3. Add the Caramel: Spoon a dollop of your freshly made caramel into each compartment of the molds, spreading it evenly across the bottom. This will infuse each cake with a delightful caramelized flavor.
4. Fruit Placement: Drain the pineapple slices, reserving the juice for later use in the cake mix. Cut each slice into smaller pieces and place a few in each mold atop the caramel. Add half a maraschino cherry on top of the pineapple pieces for a pop of color and flavor.
5. Prepare the Cake Batter: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the cake mix from the boxes, eggs, pineapple juice, and oil. Blend these ingredients together using a hand mixer until smooth and well incorporated.
6. Fill the Molds: Pour the cake batter into each mold, filling them to about one-third of their capacity. This allows room for the cakes to rise beautifully while baking.
7. Bake to Perfection: Place the filled molds in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of a cake; if it comes out clean, your cakes are ready!
8. Cool and Unmold: Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool for about 10 minutes. Gently unmold the cakes by flipping the molds over onto a cooling rack or tray. Avoid leaving them in the molds for too long, as this can cause sticking.

Serve and Enjoy:

These Mini Pineapple Upside-Down Cakes are best enjoyed warm, allowing the caramel to ooze and the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve them as a delightful dessert at parties or simply indulge in them with a cup of coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. With their irresistible blend of tropical goodness, these mini cakes are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Bon appétit!