Pineapples are not only a tropical treat but also packed with health benefits, making them a perfect ingredient for spring baking. Rich in vitamin C, pineapples help boost the immune system and promote healthy skin. They also contain bromelain, an enzyme known for aiding digestion and reducing inflammation. With their natural sweetness and juicy texture, pineapples add a refreshing touch to baked goods while offering essential nutrients like fiber, manganese, and antioxidants.
Spring is the perfect time to incorporate pineapples into baking, as their bright, citrusy flavor complements the lighter, fruit-forward desserts of the season. Pineapple upside-down cakes, muffins, tarts, and even pineapple-infused bread bring a tropical flair to any spring gathering. The fruit’s natural juiciness keeps cakes moist, while its tangy-sweet taste balances the richness of buttery pastries.
We soaked up some Spring baking and created this fun Pineapple Flower Cupcake recipe! Remember, you could also bake as a large layer cake too.
WHAT YOU WILL NEED:
- eat G.A.N.G.S.T.E.R. Cinnawin Spice Cake & Muffin Mix
- eat G.A.N.G.S.T.E.R. Cinnawin Cream Frosting Mix
- 1/3 cup Maple Syrup
- 2/3 cup Water
- 1/3 cup Avocado Oil
- 2 tsp Apple Cider Vinegar
- 12 thinly sliced fresh pineapple rings
- 1/3 chop finely chopped fresh pineapple
- 1 cup Shortening, Unsalted Butter of Ghee
- 12 Cupcake Liners
Step 1: Dehydrate your pineapple rings! Preheat oven to 150-170F. Peel pineapple and scoop out semi-circles to create a petal look. Slice into thin rings. Press each pineapple ring into a cupcake well, ensuring each ring forms into a cup-like shape. Dehydrate pineapple for 4-6 hours in your oven, checking for crispiness. Tip: you may want to do this step a day prior to baking your cupcakes and just crisp them up a bit the day of!
Step 2: Make your cupcakes! Mix as directed on the back of your Cinnawin Spice Cake Mix, stirring Maple Syrup, Oil, Water and Apple Cider Vinegar into bowl. Add 1/3 cup finely chopped pineapple to batter. Spoon into cupcake liners and bake 18-20 mins. Allow to cool.
Step 3: Frosting time! As cupcakes bake, make your frosting following the instructions on the back of your Cinnawin Cream Frosting Mix. Whip your shortening/butter/ghee with the dry mix until light and fluffy!
Step 4: Decorate your cupcakes! Once cupcakes are fully cooled, frost each cupcake and place your pineapple flowers atop as desired.
Step 5: You know this part…enjoy!
