There’s nothing like the juicy burst of pineapple to bring sunshine into your kitchen. Whether it’s fresh from the farmer’s market or canned and waiting in your pantry, this tropical fruit is a dessert superstar. From classic cakes to no-bake wonders, we’ve gathered the best pineapple dessert recipes—with pro tips, quick how-tos, and tasty twists to make your next sweet treat unforgettable.
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Got Too Much Fresh Pineapple? Try These Easy Desserts
Overflowing with ripe pineapple? Lucky you! Turn that abundance into something sweet with these effortless pineapple dessert recipes:
- Grilled Pineapple: Sprinkle with cinnamon and brown sugar, grill, and serve with vanilla ice cream.
- Tropical Parfait: Layer pineapple chunks, Greek yogurt, and honey for a refreshing no-bake dessert.
- Pineapple Compote: Simmer chopped pineapple with sugar and lemon juice. Serve it warm on pancakes or banana bread.
- Freeze It: Cut into cubes, freeze flat, then bag it for smoothies, muffins, or baking later.
Pro Tip: Pineapple compote is absolutely dreamy over date nut bread—rustic, juicy, and irresistible.
Classic Pineapple Cake Recipes to Fall in Love With
Let’s talk cake—because pineapple and cake are a match made in dessert heaven.
- When it comes to pineapple dessert recipes, these cake classics never go out of style:
- Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: A retro favorite where pineapple rings caramelize in brown sugar syrup, nestled beneath a fluffy vanilla cake.
- Pineapple Chiffon Cake: Light, airy, and citrusy—perfect for summer. Pair it with whipped cream or a scoop of fruit sorbet.
- Pineapple Poke Cake: A moist yellow cake soaked in sweet pineapple juice, topped with whipped cream and crushed pineapple.
- Dairy-Free Twist: Opt for cashew or almond milk to enjoy these pineapple dessert recipes in a completely plant-based, creamy version..
Pineapple Whipped Cream Is a Thing—and It’s Divine
This tropical twist on whipped cream will level up every dessert.
How to Make It:
- Whip cold heavy cream with pineapple purée and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Dairy-Free? Use chilled coconut cream or cashew cream + pineapple and maple syrup.
Use it on:
- Cakes
- Fruit parfaits
- Smoothie bowls
- Mini tartlets
Best Flavor Pairings for Pineapple in Sweets
Pineapple is the ultimate team player. These flavors bring out its juicy best:
- Coconut – A tropical classic.
- Lime – Adds a zesty brightness.
- Ginger – Brings warm spice.
- Vanilla & White Chocolate – Smooth and mellow.
- Date Nut Crumble – For rich texture and sweet contrast.
Easy Pineapple Dessert Recipes to Use Up Extra Fruit
Quick, crowd-pleasing ideas anyone can whip up:
- Pineapple Sorbet: Blend frozen pineapple, lime juice, and a bit of honey. Freeze and serve.
- Pineapple Crumble: Bake sweet pineapple under a buttery oat topping.
- No-Bake Pineapple Cheesecake: Creamy filling, graham crust, and chilled pineapple topping.
- Blueberry Bagels with Pineapple Glaze: Fruity, tangy, and brunch-perfect.
Yes, You Can Freeze Fresh Pineapple!
Keep that tropical sweetness going:
How to Freeze:
- Cut pineapple into bite-sized pieces.
- Spread on a tray and freeze individually.
- Transfer to freezer-safe bags. Store for up to 6 months.
Use in: Smoothies, baked goods, pineapple sauces, or sorbet.
Pineapple Dessert Recipes: Ingredients & How-Tos

Basic Ingredients
Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
---|---|---|
Fresh Pineapple | 2 cups chopped | Canned pineapple works too |
Sugar | ½ cup | Adjust for sweetness |
All-Purpose Flour | 1 cup | Swap with GF flour for gluten-free |
Whipping Cream | 1 cup | Cashew or coconut cream for vegan |
Vanilla Extract | 1 tsp | Enhances the tropical aroma |
Directions

- Prep the Pineapple
Peel, core, and chop. Set some aside to purée. - Mix the Batter
In one bowl, combine flour and sugar. In another, whisk wet ingredients. Combine both, then fold in pineapple. - Bake or Chill
Bake at 350°F for 30–35 mins. For no-bake desserts, chill for 4 hours. - Top & Serve
Garnish with pineapple whipped cream, toasted coconut, or nuts.
Extra Tips & Creative Variations

- Roast the Pineapple: Adds deep caramel flavor.
- Add Citrus Zest: A zingy twist that brightens the whole dish.
- Toss in Kiwi or Mango: Colorful and extra fruity.
- Bagel Dessert Sandwiches: Blueberry bagel + cream cheese + pineapple = yes!
- Freeze Pineapple Pops: Pour leftover pineapple juice into molds for instant treats.
FAQs: Pineapple Dessert Recipes
What can I do with too much fresh pineapple?
Freeze it, juice it, grill it, or make easy desserts like compote or sorbet.
What is pineapple cake called?
Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is the most iconic. Pineapple Chiffon Cake and Poke Cake are close favorites.
Can I make pineapple whipped cream?
Absolutely. Whip cream (or dairy-free alt) with pineapple puree and sugar for a tropical topping.
Which flavors go best with pineapple?
Coconut, lime, ginger, and white chocolate are perfect pairings.

Pineapple Dessert Recipes: Sweet, Simple & Totally Tropical
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This retro favorite never goes out of style. With caramelized pineapple rings, soft vanilla cake, and a rich buttery base, this Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is the ultimate nostalgic dessert—easy enough for weeknights, stunning enough for holidays.
Ingredients
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
¾ cup brown sugar
6–7 pineapple rings (fresh or canned)
Maraschino cherries (optional)
1½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
¼ tsp salt
½ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
⅓ cup pineapple juice
⅓ cup milk (or dairy-free alternative)
1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and pour in the melted butter. Sprinkle brown sugar evenly over the butter.
Arrange pineapple rings on top of the sugar mixture. Add cherries in the centers if using.
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, beat eggs with granulated sugar until fluffy. Add pineapple juice, milk, and vanilla.
Combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed.
Pour batter over the pineapple and bake for 35–40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool for 5–10 minutes, then carefully invert onto a serving plate.
Notes
- You can swap butter for coconut oil for a more tropical twist.
- Best served warm with pineapple whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
- Store covered at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 315
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 170mg
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
Conclusion
From classic cakes to quick chilled treats, pineapple dessert recipes are as versatile as they are delicious. With these simple ideas and tips, you can turn fresh or canned pineapple into unforgettable sweets. Whether you’re baking for guests or whipping up something just for you, tropical flavor is always a good idea.