Simple Pineapple Cobbler with a Buttery Biscuit Topping

Classic Pineapple Cobbler

A delightfully sweet and tangy pineapple filling baked under a golden, tender biscuit-like topping. This comforting dessert is perfect for any occasion, served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 380

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Pineapple Filling

• 2 cans crushed pineapple 20 oz each, undrained
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar adjust to taste
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch salt

For the Cobbler Topping

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter 1 stick, cold and cubed
• 1/2 cup milk whole or 2%

For the Sugar-Cinnamon Topping

• 1 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

Equipment

• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Large Mixing Bowl
• Medium Mixing Bowl
• Whisk
• Pastry blender or two forks
• Measuring cups and spoons

Method

 

Prepare for Baking

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.

Make the Pineapple Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the undrained crushed pineapple, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, cornstarch, melted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until all ingredients are well combined.
2. Pour the pineapple mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.

Prepare the Cobbler Topping

1. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
2. Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry blender or two forks to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Pour in the milk and stir gently with a fork until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few small lumps are perfectly fine.

Assemble and Bake the Cobbler

1. Drop spoonfuls of the cobbler topping over the pineapple filling, spreading it out to cover as much of the fruit as possible. It does not need to be perfectly uniform.
2. In a small bowl, mix the 1 tablespoon granulated sugar with 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cobbler topping.
3. Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the pineapple filling is bubbly around the edges. If the topping starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely tent it with aluminum foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking.

Serve

1. Let the cobbler cool for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set slightly.
2. Serve warm, plain or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra treat.

Notes

For a thicker filling, you can simmer the pineapple mixture in a saucepan over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring constantly, until it thickens before pouring it into the baking dish. Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

Pro Tips for Making This Pineapple Cobbler

Getting that perfect, comforting dessert is all about a few simple tricks I’ve learned over the years, often through joyful (and sometimes messy!) experimentation. Here are my favorite ways to ensure your Pineapple Cobbler turns out absolutely divine:

When preparing the biscuit topping, be careful not to overmix the dough. Overworking it can lead to tough biscuits, and we want them light, tender, and beautifully fluffy. Mix just until the dry ingredients are moistened, embracing any small lumps – they’ll bake out perfectly.

My Secret Trick: I always make sure my butter for the biscuit topping is very cold, cut into small cubes. This helps create those wonderful pockets of steam during baking, leading to an incredibly flaky and tender biscuit that truly elevates this cobbler.

For the pineapple filling, a little hint of vanilla extract truly deepens the flavors, transforming the sweet fruit into something truly luxurious. Use a good quality vanilla for the best results, as it makes all the difference in that comforting, warm taste.

Don’t peek too early! While it’s tempting, resist opening the oven door frequently, especially during the first 30 minutes. Consistent heat is key for the topping to rise properly and achieve that beautiful, golden-brown crust we all adore.

Fun Variations for Pineapple Cobbler

One of the greatest joys of baking is getting creative, and this Pineapple Cobbler recipe is wonderfully adaptable! It’s like a blank canvas waiting for your personal touch. My sister always asks me to swirl in a little extra something, and I love seeing how friends put their own spin on it.

Tropical Twists

For a more exotic flair, try adding a quarter cup of shredded coconut to the pineapple filling. It introduces a lovely texture and a distinct tropical aroma that pairs beautifully with the sweet pineapple. Another idea is to stir in a teaspoon of rum extract with the vanilla for a subtle, grown-up kick.

Berry Bliss

While it’s a pineapple star, this cobbler welcomes other fruits! A handful of fresh or frozen blueberries (no need to thaw) can be added to the pineapple filling before baking. The blueberries burst with tartness, offering a delightful contrast to the sweet pineapple, creating a vibrant medley.

Spiced Comfort

Experiment with spices beyond just cinnamon. A pinch of nutmeg or ground ginger added to the biscuit topping can introduce a warm, cozy depth, especially lovely during cooler months. It’s a simple change that makes this dessert feel even more comforting.

What to Serve With Pineapple Cobbler

A warm Pineapple Cobbler is a delight all on its own, but oh, how it loves a companion! It’s like gathering around the table with friends – good company just makes everything better. I always find myself reaching for a few classic pairings that truly elevate this humble dessert.

My absolute favorite way to serve it is with a generous scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. The cold, creamy ice cream melting into the warm, fruity cobbler is pure heaven. The contrast in temperatures and textures is simply irresistible. Alternatively, a dollop of freshly whipped cream, perhaps with a whisper of powdered sugar, adds a light, airy elegance. For those who prefer a more homey touch, a simple custard sauce poured over a slice of warm cobbler is wonderfully old-fashioned and comforting. And of course, a quiet cup of coffee or a fragrant herbal tea is the perfect accompaniment for a relaxed evening treat.

How to Store Pineapple Cobbler

Once the last delicious spoonful of your Pineapple Cobbler has been enjoyed, you might find yourself with a slice or two left over (a rare but happy occurrence!). Proper storage ensures that those delightful flavors and textures linger for another day.

Refrigeration and Reheating

Allow any leftover cobbler to cool completely to room temperature before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, I recommend reheating individual portions gently in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds, or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes, until warmed through. My personal tip is to give it a fresh sprinkle of cinnamon right after reheating – it really brings the aroma back to life!

Freezing for Later

Yes, you can freeze this delightful dessert! Once completely cooled, you can wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then again in foil, and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating as described above. The biscuit topping might lose a tiny bit of its crispness, but the flavors will still be wonderfully comforting.

Nutritional Benefits

While we mostly bake for joy, it’s lovely to know that our Pineapple Cobbler also brings some goodness to the table! The star ingredient, pineapple, is a fantastic source of Vitamin C and manganese, offering a sweet and satisfying way to enjoy some fruit. Paired with simple, wholesome ingredients, it’s a delightful treat that’s both satisfying and nourishing, embodying my philosophy of enjoying desserts with a grateful heart.

FAQs

Can I use canned pineapple rings or chunks instead of crushed?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to dice them into smaller pieces before adding them to the filling. The crushed pineapple provides a softer texture, but chunks will work and offer a slightly different bite.

Can I make the biscuit topping ahead of time?
You can prepare the dry ingredients and cut in the cold butter, then store this mixture in the refrigerator for up to a day. Add the milk just before baking to ensure the freshest, most tender biscuits.

How do I know when the cobbler is fully baked?
This dessert is ready when the filling is visibly bubbling around the edges and the biscuit topping is golden brown and cooked through. A toothpick inserted into the biscuit should come out clean.

My cobbler topping didn’t get golden brown, what went wrong?
This can happen if your oven temperature is too low or if it didn’t bake long enough. Ensure your oven is preheated properly. Sometimes a quick broil for 1-2 minutes at the very end can help, but watch it carefully to prevent burning!

Conclusion

Baking this Simple Pineapple Cobbler with a Buttery Biscuit Topping is more than just following a recipe; it’s an invitation to create something truly special, filled with warmth and comfort. From its sweet, bubbly pineapple heart to its tender, golden biscuit crown, this dessert is a testament to the magic that happens when simple ingredients are combined with a little love. I truly hope you’ll gather your loved ones, bake this delightful treat, and make your own sweet memories that linger long after the last delicious bite. Happy baking, my friends!