Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes! Fresh pineapple works well, but you’ll need to blend or finely chop it and add a bit of sugar to match the sweetness of canned pineapple. If it’s too juicy, drain some liquid to avoid a soggy casserole.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Absolutely! Swap butter for coconut oil and replace eggs with a flaxseed egg substitute . The result will still be moist and flavorful.

What’s the best bread to use?

For a soft and slightly sweet casserole, go for brioche or Hawaiian rolls . If you prefer a firmer texture, use French bread or a crusty white loaf . Stale bread is best for absorbing the mixture without turning mushy.

Can I add nuts or raisins to this recipe?

Yes! Chopped pecans, walnuts, or golden raisins make great mix-ins for added texture and flavor. Stir them in before baking or sprinkle them on top for a crunchy finish.

How do I make a gluten-free version?

Simply use gluten-free bread , and make sure your other ingredients are certified gluten-free. The texture may be slightly different, but the flavor will remain delicious.

Pineapple Bread Casserole – The Best Recipe You’ll Ever Try!

Description

Pineapple bread casserole is a sweet and buttery dish with a tropical twist. Made with soft bread, crushed pineapple, eggs, and butter, it has a deliciously custardy texture that pairs well with both sweet and savory meals. Perfect as a side dish for holiday feasts or a comforting dessert, this easy-to-make casserole is a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

6 slices white bread (brioche or Hawaiian rolls work well), cubed
1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple (with juice)
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
¾ cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Additions:

½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (for a warm flavor)
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (for a savory twist)
½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (for added crunch)
½ cup shredded coconut (for extra tropical flavor)
¼ cup brown sugar (for caramelized sweetness)

Instructions

Prepare the Bread: Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes. If using fresh bread, let it sit out for a few hours to dry slightly for better absorption.
Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Stir in the crushed pineapple with its juice.
Combine and Soak: Add the bread cubes to the mixture, gently folding to coat evenly. Let it sit for about 10 minutes so the bread fully absorbs the flavors.
Assemble the Casserole: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour in the mixture, spreading it evenly.
Bake to Perfection: Bake for 40–45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and slightly crisp. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.

Cool and Serve: Let the casserole cool for 5–10 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Notes

For a crunchier texture, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking.
For a caramelized flavor, substitute brown sugar for granulated sugar.
To make ahead, assemble the casserole and refrigerate overnight before baking the next day.
Best bread choices: Brioche, Hawaiian rolls, or slightly stale white bread for optimal texture.

Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free bread for a delicious alternative.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Side Dish, Dessert, Breakfast
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American, Southern

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of casserole)
Calories: ~250 kcal
Sugar: ~22g
Fat: ~150mg
Saturated Fat: ~7g
Unsaturated Fat: ~4g
Trans Fat: ~0g
Carbohydrates: ~32g
Fiber: ~1g
Protein: ~4g
Cholesterol: ~70mg

Keywords: Pineapple bread casserole, baked pineapple casserole, sweet pineapple dish, holiday side dish, tropical dessert, Southern pineapple casserole