Golden Pineapple Sweet Bake

Ingredients

1 20 ounces can crushed pineapple with juice

¾ c sugar

2 eggs

2 tbsp cornstarch

2 tsp vanilla

1 ½ tbsp butter, sliced into pats

1 tsp cinnamon

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Turn it on to 350°F (175°C) so it’s hot and ready.

Prepare the Pan: Take a 9×9 inch baking pan and lightly grease it. This stops the bake from sticking.

Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, toss in the crushed pineapple (juice and all), sugar, eggs, cornstarch, and vanilla. Stir everything together until it’s nicely mixed.

Add to Pan: Pour this mixture into your greased pan. Spread it out evenly.

Top with Butter and Cinnamon: Scatter slices of butter over the mix and sprinkle with cinnamon. This will give you a lovely, flavorful top layer.

Bake: Slide the pan into the oven and bake for about 45 minutes. You’re looking for the edges to get a bit golden—that’s when you know it’s done.

Cool and Serve: Let it cool a bit before slicing. Enjoy your tropical treat!

Notes:

Simple Ingredients: This recipe uses basic pantry staples like crushed pineapple, sugar, eggs, cornstarch, vanilla, butter, and cinnamon, making it easy to prepare with items you likely already have on hand.

Preparation Ease: The dish requires minimal preparation and equipment, using just a bowl for mixing and a baking pan. It’s perfect for beginner bakers or when you need a quick dessert option.

Tropical Flavors: The combination of crushed pineapple, cinnamon, and vanilla creates a delightful tropical flavor profile that’s sweet and aromatic.

Texture and Consistency: The cornstarch in the recipe helps thicken the bake, resulting in a soft, pudding-like texture with a slightly crisp top layer from the cinnamon and butter.

Versatile Serving: This sweet bake can be served warm or at room temperature, making it a versatile dessert for any occasion.

Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare this dessert ahead of time and store it at room temperature or in the refrigerator until ready to serve. It’s a great make-ahead option for gatherings.

Customization: Feel free to add your own twist to this recipe by incorporating additional spices like nutmeg or ginger, or by serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Serving Suggestions: Enjoy this golden pineapple sweet bake as is or pair it with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.

Family-Friendly: This dessert is likely to be enjoyed by all ages due to its sweet, comforting flavors reminiscent of tropical indulgence.

Adjusting Baking Time: Keep an eye on the bake as it nears completion. The edges turning golden brown indicate it’s done, but if the center is still too wet, you may need to extend the baking time slightly for optimal consistency throughout.

Nutrition Information:

Yields: 9 (from a 9×9 inch pan) | Serving Size: 1 square

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pineapple that has been crushed or pureed.

Just ensure to adjust the sweetness accordingly as fresh pineapple may be less sweet than canned.

What can I use instead of cornstarch?

If you prefer, you can substitute cornstarch with an equal amount of all-purpose flour or tapioca starch for thickening the bake.

Can I reduce the amount of sugar in this recipe?

Yes, you can adjust the amount of sugar to your taste preferences.

However, keep in mind that sugar contributes to the texture and sweetness of the bake.

Can I add other spices to enhance the flavor?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with spices like nutmeg, ginger, or cardamom to add depth to the flavor profile of the bake.

Is this recipe suitable for those with gluten allergies?

The recipe is naturally gluten-free if using cornstarch, but ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free, especially if substituting any components.

Can I make this bake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dessert in advance and store it covered at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

It can be served warm or cold.

How do I know when the bake is done?

The edges of the bake will turn golden brown, and the center should be set.

You can also perform a toothpick test—insert a toothpick into the center, and if it comes out clean, the bake is done.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While butter adds a rich flavor, margarine can be used as a substitute if preferred.

Ensure it’s in a solid form for slicing over the top of the bake.

What is the texture of this dessert like?

This sweet bake has a soft and moist texture similar to a pudding cake with a golden, slightly crispy top layer from the butter and cinnamon.

What are some serving suggestions for this dessert?

Serve this golden pineapple sweet bake warm or at room temperature.

It’s delicious on its own or topped with whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Enjoy it as a tropical-inspired treat!