This Pineapple Bread Pudding is a warm, comforting dessert with a tropical flair. Soft cubes of white bread soak up a rich custard made with eggs, sugar, and butter, while crushed pineapple adds bursts of juicy sweetness in every bite. Topped with a caramelized layer of brown sugar, it’s golden, gooey, and perfect for brunch, dessert, or even breakfast leftovers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
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Perfect for gatherings – Great for potlucks, brunches, or holiday meals.
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Minimal prep, maximum flavor – Comes together in minutes using pantry staples.
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Tropical meets classic – Crushed pineapple adds bright, tangy sweetness to this traditional custard dessert.
Ingredients Breakdown:
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½ cup butter (1 stick), melted – Adds rich flavor and helps create a moist, tender pudding texture.
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1 cup white sugar – Sweetens the custard base and balances the tart pineapple.
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6 eggs – Provides structure and richness, turning the mixture into a custard when baked.
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½ tablespoon vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor with warm, aromatic notes.
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6 thick slices of white bread, cubed – The base of the pudding; absorbs the custard and becomes soft and fluffy.
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1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained – Adds moisture, sweetness, and a tropical tang.
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½ cup packed brown sugar – Sprinkled on top for a golden, caramelized crust.
Tips and Tricks:
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Day-old bread works best – Slightly stale bread absorbs the custard without falling apart.
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Drain pineapple thoroughly – Too much liquid can make the pudding soggy.
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Test for doneness – Insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.
Variations and Customizations:
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Add coconut flakes for a Piña Colada-inspired twist.
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Top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra-decadent dessert.
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Use Hawaiian sweet rolls for an ultra-fluffy, flavorful base.
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Add raisins or chopped nuts for texture and contrast.
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Spice it up – A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg enhances the warm, comforting flavor.
Pairing Suggestions:
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Serve warm with whipped cream or a drizzle of sweetened condensed milk.
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Pair with a cup of coffee or chai tea for a cozy dessert moment.
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Great as a brunch treat alongside fresh fruit and mimosas.
Storage Instructions:
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Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
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Reheat: Warm in the oven at 300°F or microwave in 30-second bursts.
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Freeze: Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Popular Questions:
Can I use canned pineapple chunks instead of crushed?
Yes, but make sure to chop them finely for even distribution.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the pudding, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh the next day.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely! The sweet pineapple and soft custard texture make it a hit with kids.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes! Use dairy-free butter and a plant-based milk substitute for a non-dairy version (though texture may vary).