Are you looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious dessert recipe that requires minimal ingredients and effort? Look no further! This baked fresh pineapple recipe is a simple yet elegant treat that’s perfect for any occasion. It's a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas, proving that homemade cooking can be both satisfying and straightforward. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into 1-inch thick rings
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- Optional: 2 tablespoons rum or coconut rum (for added flavor)
- Optional: Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Pineapple
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Gently peel the pineapple, remove the tough core, and slice it into rings about 1-inch thick. If you have a particularly large pineapple, you may want to cut the rings in half for even baking.
Step 2: Creating the Sweet and Spicy Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, melted butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. If using, stir in the rum or coconut rum. This mixture creates a delicious and aromatic glaze that caramelizes beautifully during baking.
Step 3: Glazing and Baking
Place the pineapple rings in a single layer in a baking dish. Brush each ring generously with the prepared glaze, ensuring both sides are evenly coated.
Step 4: Baking to Perfection
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pineapple is tender and the glaze is bubbly and slightly caramelized. You’ll know it's ready when the edges are slightly browned and the pineapple releases its juices. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.
Step 5: Serving Your Delight
Remove the baked pineapple from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This allows the juices to thicken slightly, creating a richer flavor. Serve warm, optionally topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The warm pineapple pairs beautifully with the coolness of the ice cream, creating a delightful contrast of textures and temperatures.
Cooking Tips for the Best Baked Pineapple:
- Pineapple Selection: Choose a ripe pineapple that is fragrant and slightly soft to the touch. A ripe pineapple will have a sweeter and more intense flavor.
- Even Baking: To ensure even baking, use a baking dish that allows the pineapple rings to lie flat without overlapping.
- Adjust Baking Time: Oven temperatures can vary, so adjust the baking time as needed. If the pineapple appears to be browning too quickly, reduce the oven temperature slightly and cover the baking dish loosely with foil.
- Spice Variations: Feel free to experiment with other spices, such as ginger or allspice, to create your unique flavor profile.
Delicious Variations:
- Coconut Pineapple: Add shredded coconut to the glaze for a tropical twist.
- Citrus Burst: Add a squeeze of lime or orange juice to the glaze for a zesty flavor.
- Spiced Rum Pineapple: For an adult treat, increase the amount of rum in the glaze.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is approximate and will vary depending on the size of the pineapple and the amount of added sugar and butter.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 5-10g
- Carbohydrates: 30-40g
- Sugar: 20-30g
- Protein: 1-2g
This baked fresh pineapple recipe is a simple, healthy, and satisfying dessert that's perfect for a quick weeknight treat or a special occasion. Its sweet and tangy flavor profile, combined with its ease of preparation, makes it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy this delicious dish, and don't hesitate to experiment with different variations to create your own unique culinary masterpiece!