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Pineapple Upside-Down Donuts

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A tropical twist on a classic dessert, these pineapple upside-down donuts feature fluffy fried dough, a sweet vanilla glaze, and caramelized pineapple rings topped with maraschino cherries.

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
  • 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • 6 pineapple rings (canned or fresh)
  • 6 maraschino cherries
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tbsp milk
  • 1/4 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and a pinch of sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add in yeast mixture, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Knead until a soft dough forms, about 8–10 minutes.
  3. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
  4. Roll dough to 1/2-inch thickness and cut into large rounds. Let rise again for 30 minutes.
  5. While dough rises, melt butter and brown sugar in a skillet. Lightly caramelize pineapple rings on both sides, about 2–3 minutes per side.
  6. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry donuts until golden brown, about 2 minutes per side. Drain on a wire rack.
  7. In a bowl, mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to make the glaze.
  8. Dip each donut top in vanilla glaze.
  9. Immediately top each glazed donut with a caramelized pineapple ring and a maraschino cherry in the center.
  10. Serve warm for best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Ensure oil is at the correct temperature to prevent greasy donuts.
  • Caramelize the pineapple just until golden for best flavor.
  • Serve immediately for the freshest texture.

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