Pineapple Surprise
A sweet and creamy pineapple casserole combining crushed pineapple, bread crumbs, and a rich custard, perfect as a dessert or brunch dish for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream together the margarine or butter and sugar.
- Add eggs and mix well.
- Add crushed pineapple, half and half, and salt; mix until combined.
- Gently fold in the bread crumbs.
- Pour the mixture into a 10-inch casserole dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour until golden and set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, use unsalted butter instead of margarine. If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the sugar to 1 cup. To make it gluten-free, substitute the bread crumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers. Ensure the pineapple is well-drained to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the texture. This dish can also be made ahead and refrigerated before baking for convenience.
Serving Suggestions
Pineapple Surprise makes a delightful dessert or a sweet side dish. Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or pork for a contrasting flavor. It pairs beautifully with Seasoned Carrots for a colorful plate. For an extra special touch, top with whipped cream or serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, but be careful not to dry it out. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but proper storage will keep it tasty.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pineapple Surprise contains roughly 725 calories, with 16g protein, 121g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (43% of the Daily Value), calcium (32% of the Daily Value), and protein (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1111mg per serving (48% 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. Just make sure to chop it finely and drain it well to avoid adding too much moisture. Fresh pineapple will add a vibrant flavor to the dish, making it even more delicious.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
While this recipe traditionally uses eggs and butter, you can substitute them with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and vegan butter. Additionally, use a plant-based half and half for a completely vegan version without sacrificing flavor.
How do I know when the casserole is done baking?
The casserole is done when it is golden brown on top and has set in the middle. You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean. If it jiggles too much, it needs more time in the oven.
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).