Pineapple Crisp Recipe

If you’re searching for a bright, sunny dessert that’s as effortless as it is delicious, let me introduce you to Pineapple Crisp. Imagine sweet, juicy pineapple bubbling under a golden, crunchy oat topping—this recipe brings the tropics right to your kitchen with just a handful of ingredients. It’s my go-to for last-minute gatherings and cozy nights alike, and I promise you’ll soon see why. Whether you’re a lifelong pineapple lover or just dipping your spoon into the world of fruit crisps, this Pineapple Crisp will fast become your new comfort food favorite.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is a celebration of how simple, everyday ingredients can create something truly magical. Each component of Pineapple Crisp plays a special role, from the tart pineapple to the buttery crumb topping!

• Crushed Pineapple (1 can, 20 ounces, drained slightly): The star of the dessert—choose a good-quality canned pineapple for the juiciest, most flavorful base.
• Granulated Sugar (1/4 cup): Adds just the right touch of sweetness to balance the pineapple’s tang.
• Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): Thickens up the filling so you get those luscious, almost jammy spoonfuls in every bite.
• Vanilla Extract (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the tropical aroma and rounds out the flavors.
• Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats (1/2 cup): Create that irresistibly crisp, golden topping (not instant oats—texture is key).
• All-Purpose Flour (1/2 cup): Helps bind the crumb topping and gives it the perfect crumbly bite.
• Brown Sugar (1/3 cup, packed): Brings a wonderful caramel note to each mouthful.
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Just a pinch brings all the flavors into sharp, delicious focus.
• Ground Cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): For a warm, inviting spice that compliments the fruit.
• Unsalted Butter (6 tablespoons, cold and cubed): Essential for that rich, toasty, melt-in-your-mouth topping—cold butter is a must!

How to Make Pineapple Crisp

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish. This step ensures nothing sticks and makes serving a whole lot easier later on.

Step 2: Mix the Pineapple Filling

In a medium bowl, combine the slightly drained crushed pineapple, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract. A little stir here goes a long way in coating every piece of pineapple so you end up with a glossy, thickened fruit base that bubbles beautifully in the oven. Pour this mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.

Step 3: Make the Oaty Topping

In a separate bowl, stir together the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon. Now comes the fun part—add in the cold, cubed butter. Use a pastry cutter, two forks, or simply your fingers to cut the butter through the dry ingredients until the mixture looks like coarse, buttery crumbs. Resist the urge to overmix; those chunky bits of butter are your secret to a tender, crispy topping.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Sprinkle every bit of that gorgeous oat mixture evenly over the pineapple layer. Slide your dish into the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and you see the filling happily bubbling around the edges. The aroma filling your kitchen is out of this world!

Step 5: Cool Slightly, Then Serve

Once baked, let your Pineapple Crisp cool for at least 10 minutes—this brief waiting period helps the filling set so each scoop is loaded with both juicy pineapple and that’s perfect crunchy topping. Then dig in while it’s still warm and inviting!

How to Serve Pineapple Crisp

Garnishes

A classic scoop of vanilla ice cream melting over a warm bowl of Pineapple Crisp is pure bliss. If you want to get a little fancy, a dollop of softly whipped cream or a scattering of toasted coconut shavings makes every serving a little celebration. You could even sprinkle on some freshly grated lime zest for a zingy finish.

Side Dishes

While Pineapple Crisp is a stunner on its own, it plays nicely with a fruit salad tossed with mango and berries for extra tropical notes. For a refreshing beverage, serve it alongside a tall glass of iced tea or a splash of coconut milk for a dreamy vacation vibe.

Creative Ways to Present

Try dividing your filling and topping among individual ramekins for adorable single-serve Pineapple Crisps—guests love the personal touch! Or, for family-style appeal, bring the whole baked crisp straight to the table with a big spoon and let everyone help themselves. For special occasions, consider layering the crisp with Greek yogurt for a breakfast parfait twist!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any leftover Pineapple Crisp into an airtight container and stash it in the fridge. It will keep beautifully for up to 3 days, letting you sneak little spoonfuls whenever the craving hits. The topping stays surprisingly crisp, but you can always revive it with a quick reheat!

Freezing

Pineapple Crisp freezes really well. Let it cool completely, then double wrap the baking dish or transfer portions to freezer-safe containers. It’ll keep for up to 2 months. When you’re ready for a tropical treat, just thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm through in the oven.

Reheating

For that fresh-from-the-oven flavor, reheat Pineapple Crisp in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes until the topping crisps up and the filling is bubbly. In a pinch, the microwave works too—just keep an eye for hot spots and don’t overheat!

FAQs

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Absolutely! Simply chop fresh pineapple into small pieces and use about 2 1/2 cups total. If your pineapple is super juicy, you might want to drain off some excess juice to maintain the ideal consistency for your crisp.

Is it possible to make Pineapple Crisp gluten-free?

You sure can! Swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free baking blend, and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free. The crisp still comes out wonderfully golden and flavorful.

Can I add other fruits to the Pineapple Crisp?

Definitely! Mango, diced peaches, or even berries are delicious with pineapple. Just make sure to keep the total amount of fruit filling about the same as the original recipe for best baking results.

What’s the best way to cut in the butter for the topping?

The easiest way is with a pastry cutter, but if you don’t have one, two forks or even your fingertips work beautifully. The goal is to keep the butter pieces small and cold, which gives you that craveable crumbly texture.

Is there a vegan option for Pineapple Crisp?

Yes! Simply replace the butter with a plant-based alternative like vegan butter or coconut oil. Everything else in the recipe is already dairy-free, so you’re all set.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to take your first warm, buttery bite of Pineapple Crisp. It’s a recipe that feels like sunshine in a bowl and is so easy to make, you’ll find yourself whipping it up again and again. Give it a try and watch it work its cozy, tropical magic on everyone lucky enough to have a spoon in hand!

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