If you’re on the hunt for a delightful tropical treat that brings a burst of juicy sweetness in every bite, the Pineapple Cookies Recipe is an absolute must-try. These cookies marry the tender crumb of classic soft cookies with the bright, tangy flavor of crushed pineapple, making them wonderfully moist and irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or craving a little tropical sunshine in your day, this recipe delivers a perfect balance of sweetness and texture that feels both familiar and exciting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Pineapple Cookies Recipe uses a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create something truly memorable. Each component plays a crucial role, from the creamy butter that adds richness to the burst of pineapple that infuses each cookie with juicy freshness.
- Unsalted butter: Softened butter gives the cookies a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich flavor.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough while helping to create a light, fluffy base.
- Large egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture.
- Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to balance the pineapple’s tang.
- All-purpose flour: Provides structure for the perfect cookie shape and chew.
- Baking soda: A leavening agent that helps the cookies rise gently.
- Salt: Enhances all the other flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Crushed pineapple, drained: The star ingredient that brings a tropical burst of juiciness and subtle tartness.
- Optional shredded coconut or chopped nuts: Adds a lovely texture contrast and an extra layer of flavor if you’re feeling adventurous.
How to Make Pineapple Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). While that’s warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. This simple prep ensures your cookies bake evenly and slide off the tray effortlessly once done.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed until your mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This step is essential for incorporating air into the dough, resulting in soft, tender cookies.
Step 3: Incorporate Egg and Vanilla
Next, beat in the large egg and vanilla extract. These ingredients add moisture and aromatic flavor, taking your Pineapple Cookies Recipe one step closer to being deliciously irresistible. Make sure they are well combined but don’t overmix.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients Separately
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution and prevents any clumps or uneven rising in your cookies.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined. It’s important not to overmix here to keep the cookies tender and light.
Step 6: Fold in Pineapple (and Extras, if Using)
Gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple. This juicy addition keeps the cookies moist and adds a lovely tang. If you want extra texture, fold in shredded coconut or chopped nuts at this stage for a delightful crunch.
Step 7: Drop Dough onto Baking Sheet
Using a spoon, drop dollops of dough onto your parchment-lined baking sheet. Be sure to space them about 2 inches apart to give the cookies room to spread as they bake.
Step 8: Bake Until Lightly Golden
Bake your cookies for 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges turn a delicate golden hue. The centers might look slightly soft but will firm up as they cool, ensuring a tender bite every time.
Step 9: Cool Before Serving
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a couple of minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling time helps them set perfectly without becoming crumbly.
How to Serve Pineapple Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Pineapple Cookies Recipe when serving, consider sprinkling a little toasted shredded coconut on top for added texture and a visual pop. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also add a delicate sweetness and charming finish.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair beautifully with a cold glass of milk, a cup of hot tea, or even a refreshing tropical smoothie. If serving at a party, offer alongside fresh fruit or a light citrus sorbet to emphasize the tropical vibes.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, sandwich two Pineapple Cookies with a dollop of whipped cream or cream cheese frosting in between. You can also serve them crumbled over vanilla ice cream as a tropical crumble topping, perfect for summer dessert inspiration.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and fresh, making it easy to grab a quick, sweet bite whenever you want.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy the Pineapple Cookies Recipe later, freeze the baked cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freezing until solid. Then transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating
To bring frozen cookies back to life, simply thaw at room temperature for 10-15 minutes, or warm them in a low oven (about 300 degrees Fahrenheit) for 5 minutes. This will refresh their soft texture and enhance the lovely pineapple aroma.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned crushed pineapple?
Absolutely! Just make sure to finely crush the pineapple and drain off any excess juice so your cookie dough doesn’t become too wet.
What if I don’t have shredded coconut or nuts? Are they necessary?
They are entirely optional. The cookies are delicious on their own, but coconut or nuts add a nice texture and flavor contrast that some people really enjoy.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that is suitable for baking, making sure it contains xanthan gum or another binder for best results.
How long do Pineapple Cookies stay fresh?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies stay fresh for about 3 days. For longer storage, freezing is your best option.
Can I double the recipe for a larger batch?
Definitely! This Pineapple Cookies Recipe scales up well—just be sure to keep the baking time consistent and monitor the cookies closely as ovens can vary.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Pineapple Cookies Recipe that makes every bite feel like a mini tropical getaway. Its unique combination of tender cookie dough and juicy pineapple is an easy way to brighten up any day. I encourage you to dive in and bake these delightful treats—you’ll be amazed at how quickly they become a favorite in your cookie repertoire.
Print
Pineapple Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Description
Delightfully soft and moist Pineapple Cookies that combine the sweet tang of crushed pineapple with a buttery, tender cookie base. These cookies are perfect for a tropical twist on your classic cookie tray, with optional shredded coconut or nuts for added texture and flavor.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
Optional Ingredients
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps create a tender cookie texture.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the large egg and vanilla extract until they are fully incorporated, creating a smooth batter base.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt to ensure even distribution of leavening and seasoning.
- Mix Dry into Wet: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined without overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
- Fold in Pineapple and Optional Ingredients: Carefully fold in the drained crushed pineapple along with optional shredded coconut or chopped nuts if using, to add moisture and texture.
- Shape the Cookies: Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing each about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden, indicating they are cooked through but still soft inside.
- Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring they set properly.
Notes
- For best results, make sure the crushed pineapple is well drained to avoid overly wet dough.
- Optional shredded coconut or nuts add a nice crunch and flavor contrast, but can be omitted for a simpler cookie.
- Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- You can freeze the dough balls and bake directly from frozen, just add a minute or two to baking time.
- Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent the cookies from sticking without added grease.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
