Introduction
Pineapple Bake is a simple, warm, sweet side dish or dessert often served at holiday meals or potlucks. It combines canned pineapple, eggs, sugar, and buttery crumbs to create a soft, custard-like bake with a golden, slightly crisp top. It pairs well with ham, chicken, and brunch dishes.
—
Description
This dish has a creamy interior filled with sweet pineapple chunks and a lightly caramelized surface. The texture is similar to a soft bread pudding but lighter and fruitier. It is easy to prepare and uses common pantry ingredients, making it a convenient last-minute addition to any meal.
—
Ingredients
1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, undrained
1 cup sugar
1 cup bread crumbs (or crushed buttery crackers)
2 large eggs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Pinch of salt
—
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a medium baking dish.
3. In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs lightly.
4. Add sugar, melted butter, and vanilla; mix until smooth.
5. Stir in the crushed pineapple with its juice.
6. Add bread crumbs or crushed crackers and gently fold to combine.
7. Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish.
8. Bake for 40–50 minutes, until the top is golden and the center is set.
9. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
—
Tips
Do not drain the pineapple; the juice helps create the custard texture.
Use day-old bread crumbs for better texture.
For a slightly firmer bake, add an extra tablespoon of crumbs.
Allow the bake to cool slightly so it firms up before slicing.
—
Variations
Substitute crushed pineapple with pineapple tidbits for larger fruit pieces.
Add 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon for a warm spice flavor.
Mix in 1/4 cup shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
Use half brown sugar for a deeper caramel flavor.
Replace crumbs with crushed vanilla wafers for a sweeter dessert version.
—
Correction
If your Pineapple Bake turns out too runny: add 1/4 cup more bread crumbs next time or bake an additional 10 minutes.
If it becomes too dry: reduce the crumbs slightly or add 2 tablespoons pineapple juice.
If the top browns too quickly: cover loosely with foil halfway through baking.
—
Enjoy
Serve warm as a sweet side dish with ham or as a simple dessert. It reheats well and tastes even better the next day.