The Best Pineapple Bake

Ingredients

For this recipe, you will need:

For the base:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1 teaspoon baking powder

For the pineapple layer:

• 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the topping:

• ½ cup rolled oats
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ¼ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish lightly with butter or non-stick spray. This ensures the bake won’t stick and will have a nice golden crust.

Step 2: Prepare the Base

1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
2. Add the cold, cubed butter. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish to form a solid base. This will create the foundation for the pineapple layer.

Step 3: Make the Pineapple Layer

1. In a separate bowl, mix the drained crushed pineapple, brown sugar, and vanilla extract.
2. Spread the pineapple mixture evenly over the prepared base. Ensure every corner is covered so that each bite is packed with pineapple goodness.

Step 4: Prepare the Topping

1. In a small bowl, combine the rolled oats, brown sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon (if using).
2. Mix until the topping is crumbly and evenly coated with butter. This will create a golden, crunchy layer on top of your pineapple bake.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

1. Sprinkle the oat topping evenly over the pineapple layer.
2. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the pineapple layer is bubbling slightly.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Allow the pineapple bake to cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This helps it set and makes serving easier. You can enjoy it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or chilled for a refreshing dessert.

Tips for the Perfect Pineapple Bake

• Use fresh pineapple for a more natural sweetness. If using canned, drain well to avoid a soggy base.
• Customize the topping by adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
• Make it ahead: This dessert can be prepared a day in advance and refrigerated; simply warm it before serving.

The Best Pineapple Bake is a simple yet indulgent dessert that brings tropical flavors to your table. Its buttery base, sweet pineapple center, and crunchy oat topping make it an irresistible treat for family and friends. Give this recipe a try, and watch it become a household favorite in no time!

If you want, I can also create a shortcut, one-pan version that’s even quicker and just as delicious. It’s perfect if you’re short on time. Do you want me to do that?