Few baked goods capture sunshine in every bite quite like Pineapple Quick Bread. Sweet, tender, and bursting with tropical flavor, this easy loaf recipe is the kind of comfort baking that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly bright. Whether you’re baking for brunch, gifting a homemade loaf, or simply craving something sweet without too much fuss, pineapple quick bread delivers every time.

Quick breads have long been a favorite in American kitchens because they’re simple, forgiving, and incredibly versatile. Unlike yeast breads, there’s no waiting, kneading, or proofing involved. You mix, pour, bake, and enjoy. Adding pineapple elevates the classic quick bread formula with natural sweetness, moisture, and a subtle tang that keeps every slice from feeling heavy.

This pineapple bread recipe is especially beloved because it uses pantry staples and canned crushed pineapple—meaning you can bake it year-round without hunting for specialty ingredients. The result is a loaf that’s soft, fragrant, and lightly golden, perfect on its own or dressed up with a glaze, butter, or cream cheese.

Why Pineapple Quick Bread Is So Popular

Pineapple quick bread has earned its place as a timeless favorite for several reasons:

Exceptionally moist texture thanks to pineapple juice
Balanced sweetness without being cloying
Beginner-friendly and nearly foolproof
Versatile enough for breakfast, dessert, or snacks
Tropical flavor that feels special but familiar

The natural enzymes and juices in pineapple tenderize the crumb, creating a loaf that stays soft for days. This makes it an excellent make-ahead option for busy weeks or gatherings.

Ingredients for Pineapple Quick Bread

Use fresh, simple ingredients for the best results.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
¾ cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup crushed pineapple, undrained
¼ cup milk or pineapple juice

These ingredients come together to create a moist pineapple loaf with a tender crumb and balanced sweetness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a standard loaf pan with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl, whisk the sugar and melted butter until smooth.
Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Mix in the crushed pineapple with its juice until fully incorporated.
Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Stir gently just until combined—do not overmix.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Texture and Flavor Profile

This pineapple quick bread is soft, tender, and slightly dense in the best way. Each slice offers bursts of pineapple flavor without being soggy. The crumb holds together beautifully, making it ideal for slicing, gifting, or freezing.

The flavor is sweet but balanced, with pineapple providing natural brightness rather than overpowering sweetness. A light vanilla note rounds everything out, making this loaf universally appealing.

Tips for Perfect Pineapple Bread Every Time

Do not drain the pineapple. The juice is essential for moisture and flavor.
Avoid overmixing. Stir just until no dry flour remains.
Use room-temperature eggs for smoother batter blending.
Tent with foil if the top browns too quickly during baking.
Cool completely before slicing to prevent crumbling.

Variations and Add-Ins

Make this easy pineapple bread your own with simple additions:

Coconut Pineapple Bread: Add ½ cup shredded coconut
Pineapple Nut Bread: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans
Pineapple Banana Bread: Replace ½ cup pineapple with mashed banana
Glazed Pineapple Bread: Drizzle with powdered sugar glaze

These variations keep the recipe exciting while maintaining its signature moist texture.

Serving Suggestions

Pineapple quick bread is incredibly versatile:

Serve warm with butter for breakfast
Pair with coffee or tea for afternoon snacks
Toast lightly and top with cream cheese
Add whipped cream and fresh fruit for dessert
Wrap and gift as a homemade treat

It’s equally at home on a brunch table or tucked into a lunchbox.

Storage and Freezing

Store at room temperature for up to 3 days, wrapped tightly
Refrigerate for up to 5 days
Freeze whole or sliced for up to 3 months

To freeze, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw overnight at room temperature.

A Little Pineapple History

Pineapple became widely popular in American baking during the mid-20th century when canned fruit became more accessible. Its sweetness and acidity made it ideal for quick breads, cakes, and desserts—especially in home kitchens seeking reliable, flavorful results. Pineapple quick bread remains a nostalgic yet timeless recipe today.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a recipe that’s easy, comforting, and guaranteed to impress, pineapple quick bread is it. With minimal prep, pantry-friendly ingredients, and consistently delicious results, this loaf belongs in every baker’s collection. One bite, and you’ll understand why it’s been a favorite for generations.