Tropical Caramel Fruit Cookies Recipe (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the Cookies

01 - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
02 - 1 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1 large egg
04 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
05 - 2½ cups all-purpose flour
06 - 1 teaspoon baking powder
07 - ½ teaspoon baking soda
08 - ½ teaspoon salt

→ For the Topping

09 - 1 can (8 oz) pineapple slices, drained (reserve juice)
10 - ¼ cup unsalted butter
11 - ½ cup brown sugar, packed
12 - Maraschino cherries (one for each cookie)

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
02 - In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
03 - Incorporate the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well blended.
04 - In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
05 - Gradually add the dry mixture to the creamed butter mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
06 - In a small saucepan, melt ¼ cup of unsalted butter with the brown sugar over medium heat, stirring continuously until bubbly and smooth.
07 - Spoon about a tablespoon of the butter-sugar mixture onto each cookie spot on the prepared baking sheets. Place a pineapple slice on top of each, then position a maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple slice.
08 - Scoop about 1 tablespoon of cookie dough and gently spread it over each pineapple slice, ensuring to cover it slightly while keeping some fruit visible.
09 - Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookie edges turn light golden brown.
10 - Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack for complete cooling.

# Notes:

01 - For best results, use fresh pineapple if available.
02 - These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.
03 - Try adding a splash of reserved pineapple juice to the cookie dough for extra flavor.