Pineapple Casserole with Cinnamon & Cornflake Topping
This is a great twist on the pineapple casserole with some warm changes in flavor, introducing cinnamon and crunchy Cornflake topping. Sweetened pineapple with cheese and crunchy Cornflakes make the combo even more appealing!
Ingredients:
- 2 cans of 20 ounces each of crushed pineapple, drained (or 4 cups of fresh pineapple, chopped)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (to taste)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (may use mild cheddar for less sharpness)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon for warmth and spice
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional, adds depth to the flavor)
- 1 cup crushed Cornflakes to top
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted to top
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut optional adds nice texture and flavor
### Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Let your oven preheat to 350°F (175°C) so that it bakes well.
Step 2: Drain the Pineapple
Drain canned pineapple well so as not to make the casserole soggy. You can also use fresh pineapple, as it really is going to infuse the dish with its natural sweetness and a bit of tartiness.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, mix together 1 cup of sugar, 1/2 cup melted butter, and 2 large beaten eggs until smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Add Pineapple, Cinnamon, and Cheese
Add the drained pineapple to the mixture, then fold in 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese and 1 tsp of ground cinnamon. The cinnamon adds a nice, warm background to the dish, while the cheese adds creaminess. Stir until all is well combined.
Step 5: Prepare the Topping
In another small bowl, mix together crushed Cornflakes with the 1/4 cup melted butter. If using shredded coconut, stir it in with the Cornflakes to give the topping an especially tropical vibe. Stir to make sure that the Cornflakes are well coated with butter.
Step 6: Assemble the Casserole
Lightly butter or spray with non-stick cooking spray a 9×9-inch or 9×13-inch baking dish. In the prepared baking dish, place the pineapple mixture and smooth evenly. Top the casserole evenly with Cornflake topping.
Step 7: Bake the Pineapple Casserole
Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown on top and casserole bubbly. The Cornflake topping should be crispy and the pineapple mixture creamy.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Now, let the casserole cool for about 5-10 minutes. In that time, it has a chance to set, so it is easier to serve in neat squares. This may be served hot or at room temperature.
Serving Ideas:
- As a Side Dish: This pineapple casserole goes great with holiday meals such as ham, turkey, or roast chicken. The sweet flavor of the pineapple comes out against the savory flavors of meats.
- Brunch Dish: This is an excellent brunch dish as well! Serve it with scrambled eggs, bacon, or even a fresh fruit salad for a complete meal.
- Dessert: Traditionally a side dish, this casserole could easily double as dessert. Rich and sweet, it is an excellent alternative to a fruit cobbler or pie.
How To Make the Perfect Pineapple Casserole with Cinnamon and Cornflake Topping
- Use Fresh Pineapple: Employ fresh pineapple instead of canned for a fresher, more vibrant taste. Natural sweetness and juiciness from fresh fruits give it a great flavor dimension to the casserole.
- Cornflake Topping Variation: If you don’t have Cornflakes, then you can employ crushed graham crackers, chopped nuts, or even breadcrumbs to top it. This shall ensure a different but equally delicious crunch.
Adjust Sugar to Taste: You may adjust the amount of sugar according to your taste. If you want a not-too-sweet casserole, you can cut down the sugar by a third or substitute with stevia or splenda for low-carb use.
Add Fruit: Mix in additional fruits such as mandarin oranges, chopped peaches, or diced mango with the pineapple for an even fruitier mix. This really makes the casserole really colorful and tasty.
Make Ahead: You can assemble it a night in advance and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake the next day. This saves time and the flavors get incorporated with one another.
Why You’ll Love This Pineapple Casserole:
This is the perfect mix of sweet and savory flavors in this pineapple casserole. Sharp cheddar cheese and buttery Cornflakes provide a nice contrast to the natural sweetness of the pineapple. The cinnamon in it adds such a comforting warmth that it will be a family favorite.
Whether you’re serving it for a holiday meal, a potluck, or as part of a weekend brunch, this casserole is sure to be a hit. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that takes just minutes to prepare but offers a combination of textures and flavors that everyone will love pineapple casserole.
Where to Buy Ingredients:
Most of the ingredients for this pineapple casserole are available from your local grocery store. Look in the canned fruit section for Canned pineapple or, alternatively, the produce for fresh pineapple. The Cornflakes and cheddar cheese are commonly located in the breakfast cereal and dairy sections, respectively.
For more recipes and ideas to use pineapple in your cookery, check out FreshCookRecipes.com, which is home to a great deal of easy and delicious recipes for all sorts of occasions.
Conclusion:
The perfect fit for any occasion, this pineapple casserole features a sweet, wonderful topping made with cinnamon and Cornflakes. The sweetness of the pineapple, the creaminess of the cheese, and the crunch of this deliciously buttery concoction will be sure to please anyone. Make a really tasty yet unusual casserole with just simple ingredients and bring all the best flavors together in one dish. Whether cooking for a holiday, family dinner, or potluck, this recipe surely will be a hit!