Pineapple Crunch Recipe
Sweet, buttery, addictive, and just a little bit nostalgic, Pineapple Crunch is the Southern comfort classic you didn’t know you needed in your baking rotation! Imagine tender baked pineapple in its own sunshine-sweet juices, all tucked under a golden, buttery cracker-pecan topping that shatters delightfully with each bite. Whether you serve it as a memorable holiday side, an unexpected potluck treat, or a cozy finish to a family supper, Pineapple Crunch always manages to steal the show with its unique blend of textures and flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You won’t believe how easy it is to whip up a batch of Pineapple Crunch with a few simple ingredients. Each one has a purpose, bringing a punch of flavor, a hint of richness, or a crave-worthy crunch to the final bake.
- Crushed pineapple in juice: The star ingredient, bringing tropical flavor and juicy moisture to every bite.
- Granulated sugar: Just enough sweetness to balance the tang of the fruit, but not overpower the dessert.
- All-purpose flour: Helps thicken the filling so it sets up just right beneath the topping.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a hint of warmth and deepens the overall flavor.
- Salt: A little goes a long way to bring out all the bright, nuanced notes of the pineapple.
- Buttery round crackers (like Ritz), crushed: Delivers the signature crunch and a salty, buttery background, essential for that classic Pineapple Crunch texture.
- Pecans, chopped (optional): Adds a nutty, toasty depth if you’re feeling extra decadent, but it’s just as tasty without.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Binds the topping together and bakes into a golden, irresistible crust.
How to Make Pineapple Crunch
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and give an 8×8-inch baking dish a light coating of nonstick spray or butter. This ensures easy serving and that crave-worthy golden edges don’t stick behind in the pan.
Step 2: Make the Pineapple Filling
In a medium bowl, combine your undrained crushed pineapple, sugar, flour, vanilla extract, and salt. That flour instantly thickens the sweetness, while the vanilla infuses the filling with warm, bakery-style notes. Stir until everything is well mixed.
Step 3: Layer the Filling
Pour the pineapple mixture straight into your prepared dish. Use the back of a spoon or spatula to spread it out in an even layer, making sure every corner gets its share of juicy fruit.
Step 4: Craft the Pineapple Crunch Topping
In a separate bowl, stir together the crushed buttery crackers, the chopped pecans (if you’re using them), and the melted butter. You want every crumb glistening so when it bakes up, you get that iconic Pineapple Crunch finish.
Step 5: Sprinkle and Bake
Scatter the topping evenly over the pineapple layer, covering it from edge to edge. Pop the dish in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes, until the top is a gorgeous golden color and the filling bubbles merrily along the edges. For an extra-crisp top, broil for the last minute or two, but keep a close eye to avoid burning.
Step 6: Cool and Savor
Allow your Pineapple Crunch to cool slightly before digging in. It’ll taste absolutely dreamy served warm, with the buttery topping still singing with crunch.
How to Serve Pineapple Crunch
Garnishes
A sprinkle of powdered sugar right before serving always feels festive, but for true Southern flair, try a handful of toasted coconut or a dollop of whipped cream. If you’re serving as dessert, a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting into the edges is pure nostalgia on a plate.
Side Dishes
Pineapple Crunch makes a surprising, crowd-pleasing side for big holiday spreads, pairing beautifully with roast turkey, baked ham, or even barbecue chicken. Its sweet and salty profile offers a fun contrast right alongside savory casseroles and leafy salads.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving Pineapple Crunch in individual ramekins instantly elevates any dinner party, and it’s fantastic for potlucks, too. Layer cooled squares in parfait glasses with whipped cream and berries for an easy trifle, or pack slices in lunchboxes as a special, sweet treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Pineapple Crunch keeps beautifully! Simply cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to four days; the topping will stay fairly crisp.
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze Pineapple Crunch for longer storage. Once completely cooled, wrap the entire dish (or individual portions) in foil and place in a freezer-safe bag. It’ll keep for up to two months, making it great for planning ahead or tackling holiday prep.
Reheating
To bring back that fresh-baked experience, reheat Pineapple Crunch in a 350°F oven for 10 to 15 minutes, uncovered, until warmed through and topping is crisp again. For single portions, a quick zap in the microwave works, though the top will be softer.
FAQs
Can I make Pineapple Crunch in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble Pineapple Crunch up to a day in advance, keeping the topping separate until just before baking. This way, both the filling and the crumble stay fresh and textured.
What can I substitute for buttery crackers?
If you don’t have Ritz or similar crackers, try using crushed graham crackers or even panko breadcrumbs. You’ll still get a deliciously crunchy, golden topping, though the flavor will change slightly.
Is Pineapple Crunch best served warm or cold?
While Pineapple Crunch tastes magical warm from the oven, it’s equally delicious at room temperature or even chilled. If you’re serving it as dessert, warm is the way to go—especially with that scoop of ice cream!
Can I omit the pecans if I have a nut allergy?
Absolutely, the pecans are totally optional; leaving them out won’t affect the recipe’s baking time, texture, or show-stopping flavor.
Is Pineapple Crunch a dessert or a side dish?
That’s the beauty of Pineapple Crunch—it can be both! In the South, it’s often served as a sweet side to savory main courses, but it also shines as a simple, homey dessert.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready for a dish that’s as easy as it is irresistible, you have to try making Pineapple Crunch at home. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll find yourself returning to again and again, whether for holidays, potlucks, or a surprise weeknight treat. Happy baking!
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Pineapple Crunch Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Pineapple Crunch is a delightful Southern American dessert or side dish that combines the sweetness of crushed pineapple with a buttery cracker and pecan topping. This easy-to-make treat is perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy family dessert.
Ingredients
For the Pineapple Filling:
- 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple in juice, undrained
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Topping:
- 1 cup crushed buttery round crackers (like Ritz)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the Topping: In a separate bowl, mix crushed crackers, pecans, and melted butter. Spread this over the pineapple layer.
- Bake: Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and bubbling.
- Cool and Serve: Let it cool slightly before serving warm.
In a medium bowl, combine crushed pineapple, sugar, flour, vanilla extract, and salt. Pour into the baking dish.
Notes
- Serve as a sweet side dish for holiday meals or as a warm dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- For a crunchier topping, broil the last 1–2 minutes but watch closely to avoid burning.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 260 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
