There’s so much to adore about The Easiest Pineapple Bake. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

1. Minimal Ingredients : Uses just a handful of pantry staples and canned pineapple—no fancy prep required.
2. Quick and Easy : Ready in under an hour with minimal hands-on time.
3. Versatile : Serve it as a dessert, breakfast treat, or even a snack.
4. Customizable : Add nuts, spices, or toppings to suit your taste.
5. Kid-Friendly : Little ones will love helping assemble this fun and fruity bake.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The secret to this bake lies in its simple yet indulgent combination of ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Bake:

• 1 can (20 oz) pineapple slices (reserve the juice)
• 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
• ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
• ½ cup brown sugar
• Optional Add-Ins : Chopped pecans, shredded coconut, or maraschino cherries

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to whip up this sweet, juicy bake? Follow these easy steps:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) . Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Layer the Pineapple

1. Arrange the pineapple slices evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. If desired, place a maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple ring for a pop of color.
2. Reserve ½ cup of the pineapple juice for later use.

Step 3: Prepare the Topping

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the dry cake mix and brown sugar. Stir until well blended.
2. Drizzle the melted butter over the mixture and stir until crumbly. If adding optional ingredients like chopped pecans or shredded coconut, fold them in at this stage.

Step 4: Assemble the Bake

1. Sprinkle the crumbly cake mixture evenly over the pineapple slices.
2. Pour the reserved pineapple juice evenly over the top to moisten the cake mix.

Step 5: Bake

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes , or until the topping is golden brown and bubbly.
2. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover loosely with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

1. Allow the bake to cool slightly before serving.
2. Serve warm as-is or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

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Why This Recipe Works So Well

The magic of The Easiest Pineapple Bake lies in its simplicity and balance of flavors. The juicy pineapple provides a sweet, tangy base, while the buttery cake mix topping creates a soft, crumbly contrast. The caramelization from the brown sugar and butter adds depth and richness, making this dessert as satisfying as it is effortless. Together, these elements create a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious—a true crowd-pleaser.

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Variations to Try

While the classic version is divine, here are some creative ways to switch things up:

1. Add Nuts : Sprinkle chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds on top for added crunch.
2. Switch the Cake Mix : Use spice cake mix for a warm, spiced flavor or white cake mix for a lighter taste.
3. Gluten-Free Option : Substitute gluten-free cake mix to accommodate dietary restrictions.
4. Vegan Version : Use plant-based butter and a vegan-friendly cake mix for a dairy-free option.
5. Tropical Twist : Add shredded coconut or diced mango for a tropical flair.

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Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh Pineapple (Optional) : If you prefer, substitute fresh pineapple slices for canned, but be sure to caramelize them lightly in a skillet first.
2. Don’t Skip the Pineapple Juice : The reserved juice helps keep the cake mix moist and adds extra sweetness.
3. Save Leftovers : Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave before serving.
4. Freeze for Later : Freeze portions of the bake in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
5. Experiment with Toppings : Add whipped cream, caramel sauce, or toasted coconut for extra flair.