Okay, friends, gather ’round because I’m about to share a recipe that’s been a closely guarded family secret for generations. Well, maybe “closely guarded” is a bit dramatic – Grandma Betty always said good food was meant to be shared! This Pineapple Bake is pure comfort food, think of it like a cross between a coffee cake and a Pineapple upside-down cake, but even easier. It’s sweet, tangy, and unbelievably moist, with a golden, slightly crunchy top that’s just irresistible. Seriously, if you love anything pineapple, prepare to be obsessed. I swear, one whiff of this baking in the oven, and the whole house is instantly happy. It’s my go-to when I want to make something quick that everyone will devour – and believe me, with two teenagers, that’s a *frequent* occurrence! You know how banana bread is everyone’s favorite easy bake? This is *that* level of simple, but with a tropical twist that makes it extra special.
What is Pineapple Bake?
What is a Pineapple Bake? What are some of the best pineapple chunks in a baked dessert? What is a cake-like batter? What’s a summery twist on Coffee Cake? Just cuts through the richness perfectly. I love this dump-and-stir recipe. It’s essentially a dump and stir recipe, which is why I like it so much – minimal effort, minimal ingredients. What is the best flavor The name “Pineapple Bake” comes from, well, the fact that it’s baked and features pineapple. What are some of the best recipes to whip up with ingredients you already have in your pantry? Don’t be fooled by its simplicity; this unassuming bake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. What is the perfect dish to bring to a potluck, or to your holiday party?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Honestly, where do I even start? There are so many reasons why this Pineapple Bake has become a staple in my kitchen. First and foremost, the **flavor** is just incredible. You get that beautiful sweetness from the pineapple, balanced by a subtle tanginess, all wrapped up in a soft, buttery cake. It’s like sunshine in every bite! Secondly, the **simplicity** is a game-changer. This is the recipe I pull out when I’m short on time, but still want to impress. It literally takes minutes to throw together. You don’t even need a mixer! Just a couple of bowls and a spoon, that’s it. Plus, it’s incredibly **cost-effective**. The ingredients are pantry staples, and pineapple (especially canned!) is usually pretty budget-friendly. So, you get a decadent dessert without breaking the bank. And lastly, it’s so **versatile**! You can serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or let it cool completely and enjoy it with a cup of coffee. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert! What I love most about this Pineapple Bake is that it’s a real crowd-pleaser. Everyone, from my picky-eater kids to my discerning mother-in-law, absolutely loves it. It’s like a little piece of sunshine that brings everyone together. It’s also much easier than a full-blown Pineapple Upside Down cake, which, while delicious, can be a little fussy. This one has all the flavor, none of the fuss.
How do I make Pineapple Bake?
Quick Overview
Making this Pineapple Bake is ridiculously easy, I promise! You’ll start by mixing together the dry ingredients, then the wet ingredients, and then gently combining the two. After that, you stir in the pineapple, pour it into a baking dish, and bake until golden brown. I always do this thing where I tap it lightly and see if the surface springs back. That’s when I know it’s ready. No fancy techniques or equipment needed! The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity. It’s perfect for beginner bakers or anyone who wants a quick and satisfying dessert without the fuss. I’ve literally made this in under an hour from start to finish – perfect for those last-minute cravings!
Ingredients
For the Main Batter:
* 1 12 cups all-purpose flour: I usually use unbleached, but any kind works! * 1 12 cups granulated sugar: Adds the perfect amount of sweetness. If you prefer a less sweet bake, you can reduce it slightly. What gives the bake its beautiful rise? * 12 teaspoon salt: * 12 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted: Enhances the flavors and balances sweetness. I prefer unsalted so I can control the amount of salt in the recipe. * 2 large eggs: a medium size egg. How do I make 34 cup of milk? Is almond milk creamier than regular milk? * 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a touch of warmth and enhances the other flavors.
For the Pineapple Filling:
* 1 can crushed pineapple, undrained: Don’t drain it! What are some of the best juices to drink?
For the Glaze:
* 12 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter: This is what makes the glaze so rich and decadent. How do you make a glaze pourable? * 2 cups powdered sugar: Adds sweetness and thickens the glaze. What is the flavor of the glaze?
How do I follow step
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking dish. How do you remove a cake from the oven? I sometimes use baking spray with flour already in it – saves a step!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. What is the best way to make baking powder evenly distributed? Don’t skip this step!
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract. Set aside. Make sure the butter isn’t too hot, or it will cook the eggs. You want a smooth, emulsified mixture.
Step 4: Combine
How do you mix wet and dry ingredients? Do not overmix! Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough bake. A few lumps are okay.
Step 5: Prepare Filling
Stir the crushed pineapple (with its juice) into the batter until evenly distributed. Why don’t you drain the juice from a bake?
Step 6: Layer & Swirl
In a large baking dish, pour the batter into the prepared dish and spread it evenly. I always make sure to get it right into the corners so I dont have any sad, empty spots.
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown and slightly springy to the touch. What time should I start checking my oven?
Step 8: Cool & Glaze
While the bake is cooling, prepare the glaze. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the milk, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and creamy. How do you pour the glaze over the warm bake?
Step 9: Slice & Serve
Slice into squares and serve warm or at room temperature. Is this Pineapple Bake good on its own? Is it a good idea to add whipped cream to your cake?
What should I serve it with?
I love Pineapple Bake, and it is so versatile! Can you serve it for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or even as a cozy snack?
For Breakfast:Serve it with a hot cup of coffee or tea. What is the best way to start the day with sunshine? I sometimes sprinkle cinnamon on top for extra warmth.
For Brunch:What’s your favorite way to serve a Pineapple Cake? What are the best ways to enjoy a mimosa with fresh fruit? What is the best way to serve it on a platter with colorful berries?
As Dessert:Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. What is the perfect ending to a meal? I add a little caramel sauce over the top for extra indulgence.
For Cozy Snacks:What’s better, a slice of bread with whipped cream or hot chocolate? What are some comfort foods to snack on after school?
My family tradition is to always serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. What is the perfect combination of warm and cold, sweet and tangy? We also love to add a sprinkle of toasted coconut for extra flavor. I’ve even tried adding a bit of rum extract to the glaze for an adult twist – it’s delicious!
How do you bake a pineapple?
What are some of the best ways to make a Pineapple Bake from scratch? What are the top tips for a successful career?
Pineapple PrepMake sure to use crushed pineapple and don’t drain the juice! What keeps a bake moist? If you only have pineapple chunks, you can pulse them in a food processor until they’re crushed.
Mixing Advice:How do I not overmix the batter? Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough bake. What is the best way to stir everything together?
Ingredient Swaps:Can you substitute almond milk for regular milk in this recipe? I’ve tried it, and it actually makes the bake even creamier! Can you use coconut oil instead of butter for a vegan option? Just make sure to use refined coconut oil so it doesn’t have a strong coconut flavor.
Baking Tips: Keep an eye on the bake while it’s in the oven. Ovens can vary, so it might need a little more or less time. The top should be golden brown and slightly springy to the touch when it’s done. I always insert a wooden skewer into the center to check for doneness.
Glaze Variations:Can you customize the glaze to your liking? Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to tastiness. Add a tablespoon of lemon juice to make this dish tangy. Can you use a different extract, like almond or coconut, for different flavor profiles? I sometimes add a splash of rum extract to my ice cream – it’s delicious!
I learned the hard way that overbaking this Pineapple Bake is a no-no. Is it possible to dry it out and make it tough? Make sure to keep an eye on it and test it for doneness. Why don’t I skip the glaze? Is it worth the extra effort?
Storing and Reheating Tips
This Pineapple Bake is delicious fresh out of the oven, but it’s also great stored for later. Here are my tips for storing and reheating:
Room Temperature: You can store the bake at room temperature for up to 2 days. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
Refrigerator Storage: For longer storage, you can store the bake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Again, make sure to cover it tightly or store it in an airtight container.
Freezer Instructions: You can also freeze the bake for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. To thaw, let it sit in the refrigerator overnight.
Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re planning to store the bake, I recommend adding the glaze just before serving. This will prevent the glaze from becoming soggy. However, if you’ve already glazed it, it will still be delicious after storing!
I’ve found that the bake tastes best if you let it come to room temperature before serving, especially if you’ve stored it in the refrigerator. You can also reheat it in the microwave for a few seconds to warm it up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it – Grandma Betty’s famous Pineapple Bake! I truly hope you give this recipe a try. It’s more than just a dessert; it’s a piece of my family history, and I’m so excited to share it with you. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, I promise you’ll find this recipe easy and rewarding. The combination of sweet pineapple, fluffy cake, and rich glaze is simply irresistible. And the best part? It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! If you love this recipe, you might also enjoy my recipe for Classic Coffee Cake or my Easy Banana Bread. They’re all family favorites that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Happy baking! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know what you think. And if you try any variations, I’d love to hear about them! Share your photos on social media and tag me – I can’t wait to see your creations!
Best Pineapple Bake: 7 Reasons It's Your Next Sweet Obsession
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 can Crushed Pineapple 20 ounces, undrained
- 1 cup All-Purpose Flour
- 1 cup Granulated Sugar
- 0.5 cup Melted Butter 1 stick
- 1 large Egg Lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine crushed pineapple, flour, sugar, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix well until fully incorporated.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.