Grandma'S Pineapple Surprise
A sweet and crunchy dessert featuring pineapple, marshmallows, and pecans, perfect for family gatherings or potlucks with a delightful combination of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine sugar, flour, and salt.
- Add the egg and mix until smooth.
- If using pineapple in juice, increase sugar to 1 cup.
- Drain the pineapple if in syrup and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix pineapple chunks, miniature marshmallows, and chopped pecans.
- Pour the egg mixture over the pineapple mixture and stir well.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a unique twist, try using coconut milk instead of syrup for extra creaminess. If you're short on pecans, walnuts or almonds can be a great substitute. For a gluten-free option, substitute the flour with almond flour. Ensure the miniature marshmallows are evenly distributed for consistent sweetness throughout the dish. Monitor the baking time closely to avoid overcooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Grandma's Pineapple Surprise warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for added indulgence. It pairs beautifully with a side of fresh fruit salad or a light green salad to balance the sweetness. This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, offering a delightful contrast to savory dishes like Amish Barbecue Sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick reheating, but be careful not to overheat, as it can make the marshmallows tough.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma'S Pineapple Surprise contains roughly 307 calories, with 4g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 939mg per serving (41% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple, but be sure to cut it into small chunks. You might want to adjust the sugar, especially if the fresh pineapple is less sweet than canned. Consider adding a little more sugar to compensate for the difference in sweetness.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! To make this recipe dairy-free, simply ensure that any toppings or ice cream served alongside are dairy-free alternatives. The ingredients in the recipe itself are already dairy-free, making it a great option for anyone avoiding dairy.
How can I make this dessert more festive for holidays?
To make Grandma's Pineapple Surprise more festive, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the egg mixture. You can also garnish with toasted coconut flakes or colorful sprinkles on top before serving. This adds a fun touch and makes the dish visually appealing for holiday gatherings.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).