If you’ve been searching for a dessert that’s just as simple as it is spectacular, this Pineapple Crisp is about to become a new favorite. Imagine tangy-sweet baked pineapple topped with a buttery, golden oat crumble—every bite bursts with tropical flair and utter comfort. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just getting started, this recipe comes together effortlessly and delivers crowd-pleasing flavor every single time. The best part? Pineapple Crisp is a dessert that brightens up any table and gives you plenty of opportunities to make it your own!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Even though this Pineapple Crisp feels extravagant, it uses pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients that blend together beautifully. Each element has a purpose, whether it’s adding texture, flavor, or that perfect hint of caramelization on top. Let’s look at what you’ll need and why it matters:
- Pineapple: Use a freshly chopped pineapple for juicy, bright flavor, or canned pineapple chunks for convenience and year-round sweetness.
- Cornstarch: Helps the pineapple juices thicken as they bake, so your filling is lusciously saucy instead of runny.
- Brown sugar: Adds depth and a caramel-like sweetness to both the filling and crumbly topping.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the aroma and rounds out the tropical notes perfectly.
- Lemon juice: Lifts and brightens the pineapple, balancing the sweetness with a touch of tang.
- Old-fashioned oats: Give the topping its crave-worthy crunch and a hint of nutty flavor.
- All-purpose flour: Binds the topping together and helps achieve that classic crumble texture.
- Ground cinnamon: Adds gentle warmth and a cozy note that pairs beautifully with pineapple.
- Salt: Just a pinch for balance, which keeps every bite from tasting one-dimensional.
- Unsalted butter: Cold and cubed, it ensures the oat topping bakes up golden, crisp, and absolutely irresistible.
How to Make Pineapple Crisp
Step 1: Prep the Pineapple Filling
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and giving an 8×8-inch baking dish a light greasing—this step ensures your Pineapple Crisp lifts out easily later on. In a large mixing bowl, toss together the chopped pineapple (or well-drained canned pineapple), cornstarch, ¼ cup brown sugar, vanilla extract, and a splash of lemon juice. Give it all a quick mix so that every juicy piece gets a glossy, sweet coating—this will help the flavors meld and create that luscious sauce as the crisp bakes.
Step 2: Assemble the Filling in the Baking Dish
Transfer your glistening pineapple mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer. Resist the urge to sample—it smells incredible already, but the real magic happens in the oven!
Step 3: Mix Up the Buttery Oat Topping
In another bowl, combine the old-fashioned oats, flour, ⅓ cup brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter (or your fingertips) to blend everything together. You’re aiming for a crumbly texture with pea-sized bits of butter throughout—this is what transforms into that irresistible golden topping as your Pineapple Crisp bakes.
Step 4: Add the Topping
Gently sprinkle the crumble mixture evenly over the pineapple filling. Make sure to cover as much surface as possible so every forkful guarantees a bit of that crunchy, buttery topping alongside the sweet fruit underneath.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Slide the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until the top is rich golden brown and the pineapple layer is molten and bubbly at the edges. Let your Pineapple Crisp cool for at least 10 minutes before serving; this helps the filling set just enough for perfect scooping.
How to Serve Pineapple Crisp
Garnishes
This Pineapple Crisp loves a little extra flair! A generous scoop of vanilla ice cream is the classic move—the cold creamy melt contrasts beautifully with the warm, syrupy fruit. Whipped cream is also wonderful, or scatter a handful of toasted coconut flakes over the top for a breezy tropical finish.
Side Dishes
While Pineapple Crisp is a showstopper all on its own, you could serve it alongside a fresh fruit salad or a simple citrusy sorbet to keep the island vibes going. For a brunch treat, enjoy it next to Greek yogurt and fresh berries, transforming dessert into a decadent-yet-light breakfast option.
Creative Ways to Present
Try baking mini Pineapple Crisps in individual ramekins for an adorable dinner party dessert, or layer spoonfuls into parfait glasses with yogurt and granola for an eye-catching trifle. If you’re a fan of picnics, pack it into mason jars for a portable treat that’s ready to go!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Pineapple Crisp keeps beautifully in the refrigerator. Simply cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or transfer portions to airtight containers. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days—if it lasts that long!
Freezing
To freeze Pineapple Crisp, let it cool completely, then wrap the dish tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Store for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating; the topping may lose a bit of its crunch but the flavor shines through.
Reheating
Enjoy Pineapple Crisp warm by reheating individual servings in the microwave for about 30 seconds, or reheat larger portions in a 350°F (175°C) oven until hot and bubbly. If the topping softens, broil for a minute or two to revive that signature crispness.
FAQs
Can I use crushed pineapple instead of chunks?
Absolutely! Crushed pineapple gives the filling a softer, more pudding-like texture. It’s especially lovely if you prefer a smoother dessert or are serving little ones who might not love chunks of fruit.
Is it possible to make Pineapple Crisp gluten-free?
Yes! Just substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, and double-check that your oats are certified gluten-free. The result is every bit as delicious and crispy.
Can I prepare Pineapple Crisp in advance?
Definitely. You can assemble the crisp up to a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate unbaked. When you’re ready to serve, pop it straight into the oven—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming from the fridge.
How do I add extra tropical flavor?
Mixing in a handful of shredded coconut or a splash of coconut extract really amps up the vacation vibes. You can even toss in chopped macadamia nuts for a little added crunch and exotic flavor.
Can I use other fruits with the pineapple?
Certainly! Mango, banana, or even diced apples pair well with pineapple and make this crisp even more unique. Just ensure the fruit layers aren’t too thick so they all bake evenly.
Final Thoughts
Pineapple Crisp is pure sunshine in a baking dish—easy enough for a weeknight treat, special enough for guests, and always a crowd-pleaser. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes one of your go-to desserts for sharing warmth, comfort, and a little bite of the tropics with everyone around your table!
Print
Pineapple Crisp Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious and easy-to-make Pineapple Crisp recipe that combines sweet, juicy pineapple with a crispy oat topping. This tropical dessert is perfect for any occasion and pairs well with ice cream or whipped cream.
Ingredients
Pineapple Filling:
- 1 large fresh pineapple (peeled, cored, and chopped – about 4 cups) or 2 cans (20 oz) pineapple chunks in juice (drained)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Oat Topping:
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the Pineapple Filling: In a large bowl, toss the chopped pineapple with cornstarch, ¼ cup brown sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice until evenly coated. Pour into the prepared baking dish.
- Make the Oat Topping: In another bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add the cubed butter and work it into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Assemble and Bake: Sprinkle the oat topping evenly over the pineapple. Bake for 35–40 minutes until golden brown and bubbly. Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
- Crushed pineapple can be used for a softer filling.
- For a tropical twist, mix in coconut flakes.
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