Baked Pineapple Recipe – A Sweet, Buttery Southern Classic
Every family has a few treasured recipes that quietly stand the test of time — the kind that never need fancy ingredients or trendy techniques, yet always steal the spotlight at the table. This Baked Pineapple recipe is one of those classics. Sweet, buttery, lightly crisp on top, and soft and custard-like in the center, it’s a comforting blend of a pineapple cobbler and a bread pudding.
Passed down through generations, this dish is loved for its simple ingredients, easy preparation, and irresistible flavor. Whether you serve it alongside baked ham, enjoy it as a brunch casserole, or top it with vanilla ice cream for dessert, Baked Pineapple always feels like home.
Why You’ll Love This Baked Pineapple Recipe
- Only a handful of pantry staples needed
- Sweet, buttery, tropical flavor everyone loves
- Perfect for holidays, brunch, potlucks, or Sunday dinner
- Delicious served warm or chilled
- A beautiful mix of custardy center and golden crisp edges
Ingredients for Baked Pineapple
| Ingredient | Amount | Role in the Recipe |
|---|---|---|
| Crushed pineapple (undrained) | 1 can (20 oz) | Provides sweetness, moisture, and tropical flavor |
| Unsalted butter, melted | ½ cup | Adds richness and creates the silky texture |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup | Sweetens the dish and caramelizes lightly while baking |
| Eggs, beaten | 4 large | Set the custard and give structure |
| White bread, cubed | 5 slices | Absorbs the custard and creates the bread-pudding texture |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp | Enhances sweetness and depth of flavor |
How to Make Baked Pineapple
Step 1 — Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish generously with butter or nonstick spray.
Step 2 — Mix the Custard Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed pineapple (with its juice), melted butter, sugar, beaten eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and fully blended.
Step 3 — Add the Bread
Fold in the bread cubes gently until every piece is soaked in the pineapple custard. This ensures a soft interior with no dry spots.
Step 4 — Bake
Pour the mixture into your prepared dish and spread evenly. Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is just set.
Step 5 — Rest and Serve
Let the bake rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows it to firm slightly for easier slicing while staying soft and creamy inside.
Pro Tips for Perfect Baked Pineapple
- Use day-old bread for the best texture — it absorbs more custard.
- Do not drain the pineapple — the juice is essential for moisture and flavor.
- If the top browns too quickly, loosely tent with foil for the last 10 minutes.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm holiday twist.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with baked ham or roast chicken
- Top with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for dessert
- Enjoy chilled as a sweet breakfast casserole
- Pair with fresh berries for contrast
Final Thoughts
This Baked Pineapple Recipe proves that the best dishes don’t need to be complicated. With just a few everyday ingredients and minimal effort, you get a dessert (or side dish!) that’s rich, comforting, nostalgic, and absolutely irresistible.
If you’re looking for a fail-safe recipe that brings smiles to the table and disappears fast, this one belongs in your recipe box. Simple, timeless, and wonderfully delicious — Baked Pineapple is comfort food at its very best.