Perfectly Moist Pineapple Bread Recipe You’ll Love

There’s just something special about the smell of pineapple bread baking in the oven — it fills the whole house with a cozy, sunny vibe that makes everyone wander into the kitchen asking, “Is it ready yet?” I’ve made this pineapple bread recipe more times than I can count, especially when I want something easy, comforting, and just a little bit different from the usual banana bread routine.

The beauty of this loaf is that it comes together with simple ingredients you probably already have — no fancy tools or tricky steps. Whether you’re baking for your family, preparing a quick treat for the weekend, or just using up that can of pineapple in your pantry, this recipe delivers every single time.

In this post, I’ll walk you through exactly what makes this bread so special, how to get it just right, a few fun ways to make it your own, and tips for storing (if there’s any left!). So tie on your apron, and let’s get started — you’re going to love this one.

Why You’ll Love This Pineapple Bread Recipe

If you’re anything like me, you appreciate recipes that feel like a little win in the middle of a busy day, especially the ones that come together easily, fill the house with the sweetest aroma, and bring smiles all around the table. This pineapple bread recipe checks all those boxes and then some. Whether you’re baking on a lazy weekend or throwing something together for a school event or a brunch with friends, this one’s a keeper.

Here’s why this loaf has a permanent spot in my recipe box:

It’s family-friendly and crowd-pleasing
The tropical flavor of pineapple is mellow and comforting, just sweet enough without being over the top. Even picky eaters will come back for seconds.

Quick and easy to make
You only need one bowl, a spoon, and a loaf pan. There’s no need for a mixer or fancy equipment, making cleanup a breeze.

Great use for pantry staples
Got a can of crushed pineapple? A few eggs? Some flour and sugar? You’re already halfway there. It’s a practical way to use up ingredients you might already have.

Perfect for any occasion
Enjoy it warm for breakfast, slice it up for an afternoon snack, or dress it up with a drizzle of glaze for a casual dessert. It fits just about any moment and tastes amazing every time.

Customizable with fun add-ins
You can stir in mashed banana for a banana pineapple bread twist, add shredded coconut for a little texture, or even make it into mini loaves or muffins. It’s a great recipe to get creative with.

Freezer-friendly and make-ahead approved
This loaf holds up beautifully in the freezer, so you can bake now and enjoy later, or double the batch and save one for a busy day.

It’s recipes like this one that remind me why I love baking in the first place—easy, flavorful, and something everyone looks forward to.

Let’s keep the momentum going—next up, I’ll walk you through the simple ingredients that bring this pineapple bread to life.

Pineapple Bread Ingredients and Optional Add-Ins

Let’s take a peek at the ingredients you’ll need to bring this pineapple bread recipe to life. Everything is simple, pantry-friendly, and comes together to create that soft, golden loaf with irresistible pineapple flavor. I’ll also share a few fun add-in ideas in case you want to put your own twist on it!

Basic Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
  This is what gives the loaf its shape and helps everything hold together as it bakes.
• ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
  Adds a deep, cozy sweetness with a hint of molasses that pairs beautifully with pineapple.
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
  Helps balance moisture and gives a clean sweetness.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
  Makes the bread rise evenly so you get that perfect domed top.
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
  Works with the pineapple’s acidity to give the loaf an extra lift.
• ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
  Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness just right.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  Adds warmth and depth without overpowering the pineapple.
• 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple in juice – undrained
  The star ingredient! It brings sweetness, moisture, and that tropical taste in every bite.
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
  They bring the batter together and create that smooth, soft texture in every slice.
• ½ cup neutral oil (like canola or avocado oil)
  Keeps the bread extra moist and lets the other flavors shine.
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  Rounds out the flavor and ties it all together.

Optional Add-Ins:

• ½ cup chopped toasted pecans – for crunch and a nutty touch
• ½ cup sweetened shredded coconut – adds a tropical flair
• 1 mashed ripe banana – transforms it into a banana pineapple bread twist

Pro Tip:

Craving something with a hint of spice? Add a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom for a more exotic flavor profile. Want to go island-style? Try folding in chopped dried mango or papaya for a Hawaiian-inspired pineapple quick bread.

Grab a mixing bowl, and let’s turn this lineup into something delicious!

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Pineapple Bread from Scratch

Baking this loaf is the kind of project that feels cozy and calm, perfect for a weekend morning or a rainy afternoon. You don’t need any fancy gear, just a bowl, a spoon, and a bit of kitchen joy.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1- Get your loaf pan ready and warm up the oven
Set your oven to 350°F (177°C). Lightly grease a 9 × 5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang on the sides to lift the loaf out easily once it’s baked.

2- Mix the dry ingredients
In a big mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugars, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until everything looks evenly mixed. Make sure there are no brown sugar clumps—give it a good stir until the mix is light and uniform.

3- Add the wet ingredients
Pour the crushed pineapple (with all the juice!) right into the bowl, followed by the eggs, oil, and vanilla. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to gently bring the batter together without overmixing. The batter will look thick and a little lumpy—that’s just right.

4- Fold in the extras (if using)
If you’re adding coconut, nuts, or banana, sprinkle them in now and fold them through the batter. Don’t overmix—just a few turns until everything looks blended.

5- Pour and smooth
Scrape the batter into your prepared pan and use the back of a spoon to level the top. It’ll be a little rustic-looking, which adds to the charm.

6- Bake it up
Set the pan on the center oven rack and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. You’re looking for a golden top that feels gently firm when pressed. A toothpick in the center should come out with a few soft crumbs—no wet batter. If the top starts to darken too fast, lay a piece of foil loosely over it for the last 10 minutes.

7- Cool before slicing
Let the loaf rest in the pan for about 10–15 minutes, then lift it out using the parchment wings and transfer it to a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely before slicing to keep it from crumbling.

And just like that, your kitchen smells amazing and you’ve got a homemade loaf that’s ready to enjoy with coffee, milk, or straight off the cutting board.

Let’s talk pro tips and easy variations to make this pineapple bread recipe your own.

Pineapple Bread Tips and Tasty Variations

Once you’ve made this pineapple bread recipe once, you’ll probably want to make it again and again. And the beauty is—it’s flexible! These tips and ideas will help you troubleshoot, customize, and bring your own style into the kitchen.

Helpful Tips for Great Results Every Time:

• Don’t drain the pineapple
  The juice is essential! It adds moisture and that signature tropical flavor. Go ahead and pour the entire can—juice and all—right into the bowl.
• Measure flour carefully
  Scoop and level your flour (don’t pack it) to avoid a dense loaf. It makes a big difference in texture.
• Check for doneness with a toothpick
  You’re looking for a few moist crumbs, not wet batter. If the top browns too fast, cover it loosely with foil for the last 10–15 minutes.
• Let it cool completely before slicing
  I know it’s tempting, but waiting helps the bread set so it slices neatly and holds together well.

Easy Variations You’ll Love:

• Banana Pineapple Bread – Stir in one ripe mashed banana for a sweet, fruity twist that pairs perfectly with the pineapple.
• Zucchini Pineapple Bread – Replace 1 cup of pineapple with 1 cup of grated, well-drained zucchini for a veggie-forward version.
• Pineapple Coconut Loaf – Mix in ½ cup of shredded coconut for an island-inspired treat.
• Pecan Crunch – Add ½ cup chopped toasted pecans for a nutty crunch in every bite.
• Mini Loaves or Muffins – Bake in mini pans or muffin tins to make portable versions for picnics or lunchboxes. Just reduce the baking time: 25–30 minutes for mini loaves, 18–20 for muffins.

This recipe really gives you room to play. Once you’ve tried the classic version, don’t be shy—get creative!

Let’s talk about how to serve this beautiful loaf once it’s baked and cooled.

Serving Ideas for Homemade Pineapple Bread

There’s something about a homemade quick bread that just makes the day feel a little more special. Whether you’re hosting guests or treating your family to something cozy, this pineapple bread recipe is full of sweet possibilities.

Delicious Ways to Serve It:

• Toasted with butter – Simple and comforting, especially alongside coffee or tea.
• Weekend brunch spread – Slice it up and serve with yogurt, berries, and scrambled eggs.
• Lunchbox treat – Wrap up individual slices for an easy, mess-free snack.
• After-dinner dessert – Dress it up with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
• Holiday or hostess gift – Wrap it in parchment with a cute ribbon—it’s thoughtful and made with love.
• Picnic-perfect – Take it along for a sweet, sturdy bite on the go.

No matter how you serve it, this loaf fits just about any occasion—and always feels homemade in the best way.

Let’s wrap up with how to store leftovers so not a single slice goes to waste.

How to Store and Reheat Pineapple Quick Bread

Good news—you can absolutely save leftovers of this pineapple bread recipe and enjoy it later without losing its soft, moist texture. Whether you’re storing it for the week or freezing some for a rainy day, here’s how to keep every slice just as delicious as the first.

How to Store It:

• On the counter (short term)
  Wrap the completely cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• In the fridge (for longer freshness)
  Place slices in a sealed container or wrap them individually. This helps keep them from drying out and lasts up to 6 days.
• Freezer-friendly
  Wrap individual slices in parchment or wax paper, then place them in a freezer bag. You can freeze them for up to 2 months without losing flavor or texture. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw on the counter or warm them up gently.

Best Ways to Reheat:

• Toaster method – Pop a slice into the toaster for a slightly crisp edge and warm center.
• Oven method – Place slices on a baking sheet and warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 6–8 minutes.
• Microwave – Wrap in a paper towel and warm in short bursts (10–15 seconds) just until soft.

This loaf holds up beautifully—perfect for busy mornings or last-minute treats.

Related Recipes You May Love

If you enjoyed this pineapple bread recipe, here are a few more cozy, homemade bakes that bring comfort and flavor to the table:

• Sourdough Discard Bagels – A fun way to use sourdough discard and enjoy chewy, golden bagels.
• Date Nut Bread Recipe – Sweet, spiced, and packed with rich flavor from dates and nuts.
• Amish Cinnamon Bread Recipe – A no-yeast cinnamon bread that’s soft, sweet, and easy to share.

Perfectly Moist Pineapple Bread Recipe You’ll Love

Calista

This pineapple bread recipe creates a soft, golden loaf full of crushed pineapple, warm cinnamon, and cozy brown sugar. It’s a tropical-inspired quick bread that’s tender, easy to make, and perfect for breakfast, snack time, or dessert.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 55 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Course Breakfast, Dessert, Snack

Cuisine American with a tropical twist

Servings 10 slices

Calories 295 kcal

Equipment

• 9 × 5-inch loaf pan
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or wooden spoon
• Rubber spatula
• Parchment paper
• Cooling rack

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 can 20 oz crushed pineapple in juice, undrained
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup neutral oil e.g., canola or avocado
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Optional Add-Ins:

• ½ cup chopped toasted pecans
• ½ cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 1 ripe banana mashed

Instructions

 

• Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease and line a 9 × 5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
• In a large bowl, whisk together flour, both sugars, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
• Add pineapple with juice, eggs, oil, and vanilla. Stir gently until just combined.
• Fold in any optional add-ins without overmixing.
• Pour batter into the pan and smooth the top.
• Bake for 50–60 minutes, covering with foil during the last 10 minutes if the top browns too quickly.
• Cool in pan for 10–15 minutes, then lift out and cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.

Notes

 

Be sure to use crushed pineapple in juice, not syrup, for the right flavor and moisture balance. Don’t drain the juice—it’s key to this recipe’s texture.

Keyword banana pineapple bread, pineapple bread, pineapple bread recipe

Key Takeaways

• This pineapple bread recipe is easy, flavorful, and made in one bowl.
• Crushed pineapple brings just the right amount of sweetness and keeps every bite soft and tender.
• It’s a flexible recipe—great for add-ins like banana, coconut, or pecans.
• Perfect for breakfast, snacking, or sharing with friends and family.
• Freezes well and reheats beautifully for anytime enjoyment.

Now that you’ve got the highlights, let’s answer a few common questions to make your baking even smoother.

Pineapple Bread Recipe FAQs: Your Baking Questions Answered

Still curious or have your own twist on this loaf? Let’s wrap things up and get you ready to bake with confidence!

Conclusion

There’s something so comforting about pulling a golden loaf out of the oven, especially one as cheerful and simple as this pineapple bread recipe. It’s the kind of treat that brings everyone to the kitchen with smiles and makes even ordinary days feel a little more special. Whether you kept it classic or added your own twist—banana, coconut, or maybe even a sprinkle of pecans—I hope this recipe brought some joy to your table.

If you gave it a try, I’d truly love to hear how it turned out. Leave a quick review or share your favorite variation—it means the world and helps others enjoy it too.