01 -
Unsalted butter: 1/4 cup, melted, for caramelized topping.
02 -
Brown sugar: 1/2 cup, packed, for the sweet topping.
03 -
Pineapple slices: 12 slices, cut to fit muffin tins, for the fruity base.
04 -
Maraschino cherries: 12 pieces, for the classic topping.
05 -
All-purpose flour: 1 1/2 cups, for the cupcake batter.
06 -
Granulated sugar: 1/2 cup, for sweetness in the cake.
07 -
Brown sugar: 1/2 cup, packed, for added depth of flavor.
08 -
Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup, softened, for a moist cupcake base.
09 -
Large eggs: 2, for structure and richness.
10 -
Pineapple juice: 1/2 cup, reserved from the can, for flavor and moisture.
11 -
Milk: 1/4 cup (whole or 2%), for a tender crumb.
12 -
Vanilla extract: 1 tsp, for added flavor.
13 -
Baking powder: 1 tsp, for leavening.
14 -
Baking soda: 1/2 tsp, for lift.
15 -
Salt: 1/4 tsp, to balance sweetness.