This Pineapple Bake is a sweet, tropical dessert that’s as comforting as it is delicious. With a golden, buttery crust and a rich, tangy pineapple filling, this easy-to-make dish is perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a family dinner, holiday gathering, or just a simple weeknight treat. The combination of pineapple and a crumbly topping creates a melt-in-your-mouth experience that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut (optional, for added flavor)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, for serving (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent the pineapple bake from sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Pineapple Filling
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the drained crushed pineapple with the sugar, flour, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until well mixed. If you’re adding shredded coconut or nuts, fold them into the mixture at this stage.
Step 3: Pour the Mixture into the Baking Dish
Transfer the pineapple mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. The mixture will look a little runny, but that’s okay—it will thicken up as it bakes.
Step 4: Make the Crust
In a separate bowl, combine the softened butter, baking powder, and salt. Stir until the butter is well incorporated. You can use a fork, pastry cutter, or your hands to work the butter into the dry ingredients until it resembles a crumbly texture. This will create a topping that bakes up into a golden, buttery crust.
Step 5: Add the Topping
Sprinkle the crumbly topping evenly over the pineapple filling in the baking dish. You should have a nice, even layer of crumbs covering the mixture.
Step 6: Bake the Pineapple Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges. If the topping starts to brown too quickly, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the pineapple bake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgence.
Cooking Notes
- Pineapple Variations: While this recipe uses crushed pineapple, you can also try using pineapple chunks or pineapple tidbits for a chunkier texture. Just be sure to drain the juice before adding it to the mixture.
- Coconut and Nuts: Adding shredded coconut and chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts gives the pineapple bake extra texture and flavor. However, you can skip these ingredients if you prefer a simpler version.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the pineapple bake ahead of time and store it in the fridge before baking. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and bake when you’re ready.
Variations
- Tropical Twist: Add a handful of chopped mango or shredded coconut to give this pineapple bake a tropical twist.
- Spicy Option: For a bit of warmth, add a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a spiced-up version of this dessert.
- Low-Carb Option: Use a sugar substitute like erythritol and a gluten-free flour blend to make this pineapple bake more keto-friendly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple! Just chop it up and blend it in a food processor or blender to make your own crushed pineapple. Make sure to drain any excess juice before using it.
How long does this pineapple bake last?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I freeze this dessert?
Yes, this pineapple bake freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
Can I use a different type of fruit?
Absolutely! You can substitute the pineapple with other fruits like peaches, apricots, or a mixed berry blend. Just adjust the sweetness as needed.
The Best Pineapple Bake is an incredibly simple and tasty dessert that brings the tropical sweetness of pineapple to your table in a comforting and satisfying way. With its easy preparation, delicious flavor, and endless possibilities for customization, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying a cozy dessert at home, this pineapple bake is the perfect treat to satisfy your sweet tooth!
