DESCRIPTION
The Greatest Pineapple Bake is a rich, buttery dessert with a soft, custard-like center and a caramelized nutty topping. Sweet crushed pineapple brings tropical flavor, while brown sugar and pecans create an irresistible golden crust. It’s comforting, nostalgic, and incredibly easy to make.
INTRODUCTION
This classic-style pineapple bake is the kind of recipe that feels like it came straight from a family recipe box. It’s perfect for potlucks, holidays, Sunday dinners, or even as a sweet breakfast treat. Simple ingredients come together to create a dessert that’s warm, sweet, and unforgettable.
WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS RECIPE
Easy to prepare with pantry ingredients
Sweet, buttery, and tropical flavor
Perfect balance of soft interior and crunchy topping
Great for dessert or brunch
Feeds a crowd with minimal effort
INGREDIENTS
FOR THE BATTER
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, well drained
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
OPTIONAL ADD-IN
1 cup shredded coconut
FOR THE TOPPING
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup chopped pecans
INSTRUCTIONS
STEP 1: PREHEAT THE OVEN
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
STEP 2: CREAM THE BUTTER AND SUGAR
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light, fluffy, and pale in color.
STEP 3: ADD EGGS AND FLAVORINGS
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the drained crushed pineapple and vanilla extract until evenly combined.
STEP 4: MIX DRY INGREDIENTS
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix.
STEP 5: ASSEMBLE THE BAKE
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. If using shredded coconut, sprinkle it evenly over the batter.
STEP 6: ADD THE TOPPING
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and chopped pecans. Sprinkle evenly over the top of the batter.
STEP 7: BAKE
Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
STEP 8: COOL AND SERVE
Allow the bake to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
VARIATIONS
Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth
Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds
Use crushed pineapple in juice for extra sweetness
Add a splash of rum or coconut extract for a tropical twist
TIPS FOR BEST RESULTS
Drain the pineapple very well to avoid excess moisture
Use room-temperature butter and eggs for smooth batter
Do not overbake or the center may dry out
Let it rest slightly before cutting for cleaner slices
STORAGE TIPS
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
Reheat gently in the microwave or oven
Can be frozen for up to 2 months and thawed overnight
NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION (PER SERVING)
Calories: 350
Protein: 4g
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 22g
Sodium: 150mg
FAQs
Is this a cake or a casserole?
It’s somewhere in between, with a soft cake-like base and a custardy texture.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better the next day once flavors settle.
Is coconut necessary?
No, it’s optional and can be skipped without affecting the result.
CONCLUSION
The Greatest Pineapple Bake is a timeless, crowd-pleasing dessert that delivers big flavor with little effort. Buttery, sweet, and topped with a crunchy pecan crust, it’s the kind of recipe that gets requested again and again. Serve it once, and it’s guaranteed to become a favorite.