If you’re searching for a holiday dish that’s a little unexpected, a little nostalgic, and guaranteed to wow your guests, look no further than baked pineapple.
This simple recipe has been making appearances at my family dinners, potlucks, and holiday parties for generations—and once you taste it, you’ll understand why.
Baked pineapple is the ultimate versatile dish. It can be served hot and golden straight from the oven, or chilled and refreshing the next day.
It pairs beautifully with savory main courses like ham, chicken, or pork, but it’s also sweet enough to double as a dessert.
It’s cozy, colorful, and just the kind of recipe that makes people lean across the table and say, “Wait—what IS this?!”
In short: baked pineapple is a crowd-pleaser every single time.
KEEP READING FOR THE BEST BAKED PINEAPPLE RECIPE
Why Baked Pineapple Belongs on Your Holiday Table
During the holidays, most of us pull out our tried-and-true classics: stuffing, mashed potatoes, rolls, pies, and cookies. But every holiday table needs that one surprise dish—the one nobody expects but everyone remembers.
That’s exactly what baked pineapple is.
It’s sweet but not too sweet, hearty yet light, and it brings a burst of tropical brightness to a table full of cozy winter flavors.
The pineapple caramelizes beautifully in the oven, the bread cubes turn buttery and golden on top, and the result is a warm, spoonable casserole that’s both nostalgic and unique.
The best part? It’s incredibly simple. No fancy steps, no special equipment—just a handful of pantry staples and about 35 minutes in the oven.
The Recipe: Classic Baked Pineapple
Here’s how to make this timeless dish that works as both a side and a dessert.
Ingredients:
8 tbsp butter, melted
8–10 slices white bread, cubed
6 eggs
1 cup sugar
2 tbsp flour
2 (16 oz) cans crushed pineapple (undrained)
Instructions:
Slice the bread into cubes and lightly brown them in a buttered pan.
In a mixing bowl, beat eggs with sugar. Add flour and both cans of crushed pineapple (with juice), then blend everything together.
Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 baking dish.
Top with the browned bread cubes.
Bake at 350°F for about 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Serve hot, warm, or cold—your choice!
This recipe yields a generous pan, making it perfect for feeding a crowd at your next holiday dinner.
Serving Ideas for Baked Pineapple
One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. Depending on how you serve it, it can play several different roles:
- As a holiday side dish: Pair it with roasted ham, turkey, chicken, or pork. The sweetness of the pineapple cuts through the savory richness of meat, much like cranberry sauce does at Thanksgiving.
- As a potluck contribution: Because it can be served warm or cold, this dish travels beautifully. Just bake it ahead of time and reheat, or serve it chilled like a pudding-style dessert.
- As dessert: Top with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a tropical twist on the classic holiday sweet.
- As brunch casserole: Add it to a breakfast or brunch spread alongside eggs, bacon, and pastries. The pineapple brings a fresh, fruity balance to the table.
Basically, you’ll never run out of reasons to make this dish.
Tips & Tricks for the Best Baked PineapplE
Use plain white bread: Plain white bread works best because it absorbs the pineapple mixture evenly without overpowering the delicate sweetness. Avoid flavored or whole-grain breads, which can alter the taste and texture.
Don’t skip browning the bread cubes: Toasting them lightly in salted butter adds a rich flavor and keeps them from getting soggy.
Check doneness with a toothpick: Since oven times can vary, you’ll want to make sure the center is set before pulling it out.
Make it ahead: Baked pineapple can easily be made a day in advance. Reheat in the oven at 300°F until warmed through, or serve it cold straight from the fridge.
Add a festive twist: Sprinkle a little cinnamon or nutmeg over the top before baking for a warm holiday flavor.
Why Everyone Falls in Love with Baked Pineapple
Here’s the thing: when people first see this dish on the table, they don’t know what to expect. Pineapple… in a casserole? Pineapple… with bread?
But the second they taste it, they’re hooked.
There’s something magical about the way the sweetness of pineapple balances with the custardy egg mixture and the buttery bread topping.
It feels like comfort food, but it’s light enough that you’ll still have room for pie afterward.
At holiday dinners, it always sparks conversation—people ask for the recipe, they go back for seconds, and they usually leave saying, “I’m making baked pineapple next year!”
Make It a Holiday Tradition
The holidays are all about gathering, sharing, and creating traditions that bring people together.
Baked pineapple is one of those recipes that feels both timeless and surprising—the kind of dish that earns a permanent spot on your menu once you try it.
Whether you’re serving it alongside Christmas ham, bringing it to an Easter brunch, or surprising your friends at a New Year’s Eve potluck, this dish always delivers.
It’s nostalgic, it’s versatile, and it’s guaranteed to put a smile on your guests’ faces.
So this year, when you’re planning your holiday spread, add baked pineapple to the menu.
Trust me: it might just steal the spotlight.
Final Thoughts
Recipes don’t have to be complicated to be unforgettable.
With just a few simple ingredients, baked pineapple transforms into a dish that’s part side, part dessert, and all-around holiday magic.
It’s easy, it’s festive, and it’s one of those recipes you’ll want to pass down through your family.
So go ahead—print this recipe, tuck it in your holiday binder, and get ready for the compliments.
Because once you serve baked pineapple, your guests will be asking for it every year!
Ready to make your own baked pineapple? Try it once, and you’ll see why it’s a holiday classic in the making.
ENJOY THIS DELICIOUS BAKED PINEAPPLE SIDE DISH OR DESSERT!
PIN THIS!
Want to check out more of my popular go-to recipes for holidays and every day?
- Cookie Dough Yogurt
- The Best Vitamix Frozen Strawberry Margarita
- Healthy Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
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