The Best Pineapple Bake

This Pineapple Bake is a perfect blend of tangy pineapple, warm cinnamon, and a hint of buttery richness that combines into a dessert as easy as it is delicious. With a custardy texture and a hint of vanilla, it’s perfect for brunch, as a side dish, or as a light dessert. Just bake until golden and enjoy warm or at room temperature for a taste of tropical comfort!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Easy to Prepare: With only a few ingredients and straightforward steps, this pineapple bake is beginner-friendly.
Sweet and Spiced Flavor: The combination of pineapple, vanilla, and cinnamon makes for a perfect balance of tropical sweetness and warming spices.
Versatile Dessert: This bake is wonderful served warm on its own or topped with whipped cream, ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel.
Perfect Texture: The cornstarch and eggs create a silky, custardy base that contrasts beautifully with the slightly caramelized cinnamon topping.

Key Ingredients:

Crushed Pineapple with Juice: Using the juice adds moisture and a natural sweetness to the dish. Avoid draining, as the juice is essential for the custard-like texture.
Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the pineapple and helps caramelize the edges for added flavor.
Eggs: Eggs bind the mixture and create a custardy texture when baked, giving the dessert its rich, soft consistency.
Cornstarch: Cornstarch acts as a thickener, helping the mixture set into a smooth, creamy bake.
Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, aromatic flavor that pairs beautifully with the pineapple.
Butter: Small pats of butter add richness and enhance the golden-brown color on top.
Cinnamon: Sprinkled on top, cinnamon brings a warm spice that perfectly complements the pineapple’s sweetness.

Complete list of ingredients with quantities and instructions is located in the recipe card below

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the oven is at the right temperature to bake the pineapple mixture evenly.

Prepare the Baking Pan:
Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan thoroughly. This prevents the pineapple bake from sticking and makes serving easier.

Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
Crushed pineapple (with juice)
Sugar
Eggs
Cornstarch
Vanilla extract
Use a whisk or electric mixer to blend until smooth and consistent. The cornstarch should be fully incorporated, with no lumps.

Transfer to the Baking Pan:
Pour the pineapple mixture into the greased baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula to cover the entire surface.

Add Butter and Cinnamon:
Dot the top of the pineapple mixture with small pats of butter to add richness. Then, sprinkle an even layer of cinnamon over the top for a touch of spice that complements the sweetness.

Bake:
Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes. The bake is ready when the edges turn golden brown, and the center is set. To test, insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the bake is done.

Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. This resting period lets the flavors meld, making it easier to slice. Serve warm or at room temperature for best results.

Serving Suggestions:

This Pineapple Bake is delicious on its own, but here are some additional ways to serve it:

With Ice Cream: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream for a tropical treat.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast to the dense bake.
Caramel Drizzle: Add a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra sweetness and richness.
Toasted Coconut: Sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes for an added crunch and tropical flavor.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

This dessert stores and reheats well, making it perfect for leftovers or make-ahead prep.

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze for up to 1 month in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, or warm the entire pan in a 325°F (165°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

Recipe Variations:

Coconut Pineapple Bake: Add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut to the pineapple mixture for a more tropical flavor.
Nutty Pineapple Bake: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the top along with the cinnamon for added crunch.
Gluten-Free Option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but ensure all ingredients (like vanilla extract) are certified gluten-free if needed.
Spiced Pineapple Bake: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the mixture for a slightly spiced version.
Pineapple Bread Pudding Twist: Stir in a few cubes of day-old bread to create a pineapple bread pudding variation.

Conclusion:

The Best Pineapple Bake is a simple yet delightful dessert that brings together tropical sweetness with a cozy touch of cinnamon. Its soft, custard-like texture and caramelized top make it a treat that’s easy to love. Perfect for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or anytime you’re craving something sweet and comforting.

Try this recipe, and enjoy the warm, tropical flavors of every slice!