Pineapple Bread Pudding combines the rich, comforting texture of traditional bread pudding with the sweet, tangy flavor of pineapple. This delightful dessert is easy to make and perfect for any occasion, offering a tropical twist that will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into the recipe and create a delicious Pineapple Bread Pudding that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
- ½ cup butter (1 stick), melted
- 1 cup white sugar
- 6 eggs
- ½ tablespoon vanilla extract
- 6 thick slices of white bread, cubed
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a similarly sized casserole dish.
2. Prepare the Bread
- Cube the Bread: Cut the thick slices of white bread into cubes. Place the cubed bread into the prepared baking dish.
3. Prepare the Egg Mixture
- Beat Eggs: In a large mixing bowl, beat the 6 eggs until well combined.
- Add Sugar and Butter: Add the white sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract to the beaten eggs. Mix until fully combined and smooth.
4. Combine Bread and Egg Mixture
- Mix Bread and Eggs: Pour the egg mixture over the cubed bread in the baking dish. Gently toss the bread cubes to ensure they are evenly coated with the egg mixture.
5. Add Pineapple
- Add Pineapple: Evenly distribute the drained crushed pineapple over the top of the bread mixture. Gently fold the pineapple into the mixture to ensure it is well incorporated.
6. Top with Brown Sugar
- Sprinkle Brown Sugar: Sprinkle the packed brown sugar evenly over the top of the bread and pineapple mixture. This will create a delicious caramelized crust as it bakes.
7. Bake
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool and Serve
- Cool: Remove the bread pudding from the oven and let it cool slightly in the baking dish.
- Serve: Serve warm, either on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
Cook’s Tips and Variations
- Bread Choices: While white bread is traditional, you can use other types of bread such as brioche, challah, or even leftover dinner rolls for added richness and flavor.
- Add-Ins: Consider adding ½ cup of raisins, shredded coconut, or chopped nuts to the mixture for extra texture and flavor.
- Spices: Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg to the egg mixture for a warm, spiced flavor.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I make Pineapple Bread Pudding ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the bread pudding up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove it from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature before baking as directed.
Q: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned? A: Yes, you can use fresh pineapple. Simply finely chop the fresh pineapple and use an equivalent amount to the canned pineapple. Be sure to drain any excess juice to prevent the pudding from becoming too soggy.
Q: How should I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Q: Can I freeze Pineapple Bread Pudding? A: Yes, you can freeze baked Pineapple Bread Pudding. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in the oven before serving.
Pineapple Bread Pudding is a delightful and easy-to-make dessert that combines the comforting texture of bread pudding with the sweet and tangy flavor of pineapple. This tropical twist on a classic is perfect for any occasion and is sure to impress your family and friends. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, you’ll find yourself making this delicious dessert time and time again. Enjoy every warm, sweet bite of Pineapple Bread Pudding and let the flavors transport you to a tropical paradise!
