Pineapple Bake

 

Ingredients

1 (20 oz / 565 g) can crushed pineapple in juice (do not drain completely—keep about 2–3 tbsp of liquid for moisture)

1 cup granulated sugar (reduce to ¾ cup if you prefer less sweetness)

½ cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs, room temperature

½ cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Pinch of salt

Optional topping: ½ cup shredded coconut or chopped pecans/walnuts

Note: For the signature sweet-savory depth, freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese (about ½ cup) is traditionally folded into the batter—but feel free to omit if serving as dessert.

Instructions

Prep & Preheat

Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.

Mix the Base

In a large bowl, combine the crushed pineapple (with reserved juice), sugar, flour, eggs, melted butter, vanilla, and salt. Stir gently until just combined—don’t overmix.

(If using cheese: fold in ½ cup freshly shredded sharp cheddar until evenly distributed.)

Add Topping (Optional)

If using, sprinkle shredded coconut or chopped nuts evenly over the top.

Bake to Golden Perfection

Pour the mixture into your prepared dish. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is deeply golden, the edges are bubbling, and the center is set (a toothpick should come out clean).

Cool Slightly & Serve

Let rest for 10–15 minutes before serving. This allows the bake to set slightly for cleaner scooping. Serve warm—straight from the dish!

Serving Suggestions

As a side: Pair with baked ham, roasted chicken, or pork tenderloin

As dessert: Top with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream

For brunch: Serve alongside scrambled eggs and toast for a sweet-savory start

Garnish: A light dusting of powdered sugar or extra toasted coconut adds charm

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pineapple in syrup?

Yes, but reduce sugar to ¾ cup to avoid excessive sweetness. Juice-packed is preferred for balanced flavor.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Use plant-based butter and omit cheese. The texture will be slightly softer but still delicious.

Can I prep it ahead?

Yes! Assemble (unbaked), cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5–10 minutes to bake time.

Why add cheese?

Sharp cheddar adds a subtle savory note that cuts the sweetness—classic in Southern and Midwestern versions. Omit for a purely sweet dessert.

Allergy Information

Contains: Dairy (butter, optional cheese), eggs, wheat

Gluten-free option: Use 1:1 GF flour blend

Nut-free: Skip nut topping; coconut is optional

Vegetarian: Yes

Always verify labels on canned pineapple and butter for allergen safety.

Nutrition Facts

(Per serving, recipe serves 8)

Calories: 240

Protein: 4g

Fat: 10g (Saturated: 6g)

Carbohydrates: 35g

Fiber: 1g

Sugar: 26g

Sodium: 180mg

Values may vary based on added cheese or topping choices.

Pineapple Bake isn’t just a recipe—it’s a vessel for memory, warmth, and shared joy. It bridges generations, turns simple ingredients into something extraordinary, and reminds us that the most beloved dishes are often the easiest to make. So whether you’re honoring tradition or creating a new one, this golden, bubbling casserole is sure to become a cherished part of your table.

Go ahead—bake it, share it, and watch as it disappears faster than you can say, “Who wants seconds?”