The Easiest Pineapple Bake

A luscious, custard-like dessert that combines sweet crushed pineapple, warm cinnamon, and a silky vanilla-egg base—baked until golden and wobbly. With just 7 ingredients and one bowl, this effortless treat delivers tropical comfort in every spoonful. Whether served warm with ice cream or chilled like a creamy pie, it’s the ultimate no-fuss dessert for busy days, potlucks, or last-minute guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just another pineapple dish—it’s simplicity perfected. Inspired by vintage church cookbooks and retro Jell-O-era desserts, this bake comes together in minutes with pantry staples and bakes into a creamy, dreamy cross between a cobbler and a custard. It’s sweet but not cloying, rich without being heavy, and bursting with bright pineapple flavor.

Perfect for:

• Weeknight desserts
• Holiday side dishes (especially Thanksgiving!)
• Make-ahead treats
• Freezer-friendly snacks

Ingredients

For the Pineapple Bake

• 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple in juice (do not drain!)
• ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 tbsp (16g) cornstarch (thickens into a smooth custard)
• 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1½ tbsp (21g / 3 pats) unsalted butter, sliced
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

Optional Upgrades

• ½ tsp coconut extract (for tropical flair)
• ¼ cup toasted coconut flakes (adds crunch and aroma)
• ¼ cup chopped maraschino cherries (color and sweetness)
• A splash of pineapple rum or Malibu (adult version only)
• Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream (for serving)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat & Prep

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.

2. Mix the Batter

In a large bowl:

• Stir together undrained crushed pineapple, sugar, eggs, cornstarch, and vanilla extract (plus coconut extract, if using).
• Mix until completely smooth and well blended (~1 minute).

3. Pour & Top

• Pour mixture into the prepared pan.
• Dot the surface with butter pats—they’ll melt and create little pools of richness.
• Sprinkle evenly with cinnamon (and cherries or coconut, if adding).

4. Bake Until Golden & Set

• Bake 45 minutes, until:
  • Edges are bubbly
  • Center is slightly jiggly but set
  • Top is light golden brown

5. Cool & Serve

• Let cool 5–10 minutes for warm, spoonable texture.
• Or chill at least 2 hours (or overnight) for a firmer, pie-like consistency.

Serve in bowls topped with:

• A dollop of whipped cream
• A scoop of vanilla ice cream
• A drizzle of rum (for adults)

You Must Know

• Do NOT drain the pineapple —the juice is essential for moisture and balance.
• Cornstarch is key —it thickens into a creamy custard without flour clumps.
• Use room-temp eggs —cold eggs may cause separation.
• Tastes better the next day! Flavors deepen overnight.
• Freeze for later —wrap individual portions and thaw in fridge.

Storage Tips

• Store covered in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freeze for up to 3 months —thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Reheat gently in microwave (15–20 seconds) for warm comfort.

Ingredient Substitutions

Serving Suggestions

• Serve family-style in the baking dish.
• Great for potlucks—bring the whole pan!
• Double the batch and freeze half for future comfort.
• Pair with lemonade or iced tea.

Cultural Context

Rooted in mid-century American home cooking and Southern comfort traditions, this recipe celebrates how simple ingredients can become something deeply satisfying. Found at church suppers, holiday tables, and creative kitchens alike, it proves that great food doesn’t have to be fancy—just heartfelt, humble, and shared.

Pro Tips

• Double the recipe? Yes—perfect for feeding a crowd. Use a 9×13-inch pan and increase time by 5–10 mins.
• Want more tang? Add 1 tsp lemon juice to brighten the flavor.
• Make ahead: Assemble and refrigerate unbaked pan overnight. Bake when ready.
• Label your dish: People will ask for the recipe.
• Say “ready?” before serving —it’s part of the ritual.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use jello instead?
A: Not recommended—it won’t set the same way and alters flavor.

Q: Why did my bake crack on top?
A: Likely overbaked or cooled too fast. Cool slowly and avoid drafts.

Q: Is this gluten-free?
A: Yes—if using GF-certified cornstarch and verifying all ingredients.

Q: Can I make it in jars?
A: Absolutely! Divide among 4–6 ramekins or mason jars. Bake 35–40 mins.

Q: Can I air fry it?
A: Not ideal for full bake—but reheat slices at 350°F for 8–10 mins.

Allergy Information

Contains: dairy (butter), eggs.
Gluten-free option: Use certified GF cornstarch.
Nut-free: This recipe is naturally nut-free.
Always check labels—especially on extracts and canned goods.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approximate)

Based on 9 servings

• Calories: 180
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 28g
• Protein: 3g
• Sodium: 50mg

This bake doesn’t shout. It emerges golden from the oven, soft and inviting, saying everything a great dessert should: “Scoop me slow. Share me. This is good.” That’s how the best ones begin—not with silence, but with pineapple, patience, and someone who says, “Let’s make it together.”