Introduction

Pineapple Cream Cheese Cobbler is the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors, wrapped in a soft, golden-brown cobbler crust. This dessert is a showstopper for family gatherings, potlucks, or even a cozy night at home. With fresh pineapple, rich cream cheese, and a touch of vanilla, it’s a treat that delights every palate. Whether served warm with a scoop of ice cream or enjoyed straight from the pan, this cobbler has a way of making dessert feel extra special.

My Recipe Story

I first discovered the magic of Pineapple Cream Cheese Cobbler during a summer family reunion. My aunt brought a dish that had everyone asking for seconds, and it was unlike anything I had ever tasted. The combination of tangy pineapple with the creamy, smooth texture of cream cheese was simply irresistible. I spent weeks perfecting my version, adjusting the crust to be tender yet slightly crisp, and balancing the sweetness with just the right hint of tartness. Today, this cobbler is my go-to dessert for celebrations, and it always brings smiles to the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich, creamy filling with a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess.
Quick and easy to prepare, even for beginner bakers.
Versatile dessert that works for casual dinners or elegant gatherings.

Can be served warm, cold, or with a scoop of ice cream.
Uses simple, everyday ingredients that are easy to find.
Customizable with other fruits or toppings for endless variations.

Ingredient Breakdown

This Pineapple Cream Cheese Cobbler starts with fresh or canned pineapple. Fresh pineapple provides a vibrant, natural sweetness and juicy texture, while canned pineapple works well for convenience and consistency. Make sure to drain canned pineapple well to avoid excess liquid in your cobbler.

The cream cheese adds a luscious, creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the sweet pineapple. Full-fat cream cheese works best for the richest flavor, but you can use reduced-fat versions if desired. Sweetened condensed milk or granulated sugar is added to enhance the dessert’s sweetness without overpowering the pineapple’s natural tang.

The cobbler crust is made with simple pantry ingredients like flour, sugar, baking powder, and butter. The butter creates a tender, slightly crumbly crust that complements the creamy filling. Vanilla extract is a must for depth of flavor, and a pinch of salt helps balance the sweetness.

Optional add-ins include shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added texture and flavor. These additions allow you to tailor the cobbler to your personal taste or make it extra special for holiday occasions.

Equipment You’ll Need

Mixing bowls (medium and large)

Electric mixer or hand whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
9×13-inch baking dish or similar

Spatula
Knife and cutting board (if using fresh pineapple)
Oven mitts

Wire rack for cooling

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking and gives the crust a golden-brown finish. Grease your baking dish lightly with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking. Setting the oven temperature correctly from the start is essential for a consistent bake.

Step 2: Prepare the Pineapple
If using fresh pineapple, peel, core, and cut it into small chunks. For canned pineapple, drain thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step prevents the cobbler from becoming too watery and helps the flavors remain concentrated in the filling.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and creamy using an electric mixer or hand whisk. If the cream cheese is cold, allow it to soften at room temperature to avoid lumps. This smooth filling will contrast beautifully with the juicy pineapple.

Step 4: Prepare the Cobbler Batter
In a separate bowl, mix together flour, baking powder, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Cut in cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add milk and vanilla, stirring until a soft, slightly sticky batter forms. The batter should be thick enough to hold together but soft enough to spread easily over the filling.

Step 5: Assemble the Cobbler
Spread half of the cobbler batter into the greased baking dish. Layer the pineapple evenly over the batter, then gently dollop the cream cheese mixture on top. Finally, drop spoonfuls of the remaining batter over the cream cheese and pineapple. This layering creates a marbled effect and ensures each bite has a perfect balance of crust, fruit, and creaminess.

Step 6: Bake the Cobbler
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the crust comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil. Baking slowly allows the cream cheese to meld with the pineapple while keeping the crust tender.

Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow the cobbler to cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to slice. Serve warm or at room temperature with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch.

Variations & Substitutions

You can customize this cobbler to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Substitute pineapple with peaches, cherries, or mixed berries for a different fruity twist. For a tropical version, add shredded coconut to the cream cheese layer. If dairy-free, use vegan cream cheese and plant-based milk alternatives. Sweeteners can also be adjusted—try honey or maple syrup instead of sugar for a natural touch.

Expert Tips & Troubleshooting

Ensure cream cheese is softened before mixing to avoid lumps in the filling.
Drain canned pineapple thoroughly to prevent a soggy cobbler.
Use a toothpick to test doneness, checking the crust’s center.

Cover the top with foil if it browns too fast during baking.
Let the cobbler cool slightly before serving to help the layers set properly.

Storage, Freezing & Make-Ahead

Store leftover cobbler in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, wrap the cooled cobbler tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. You can also prepare the cobbler in advance and refrigerate it before baking; just add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

Serving Ideas & Pairings

Pineapple Cream Cheese Cobbler pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce. For a brunch twist, serve warm slices alongside fresh fruit or a cup of hot coffee. The dessert’s tropical flavors also complement rum-flavored sauces or toasted coconut for an island-inspired experience.

FAQ

Q1: Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
A: Yes, canned pineapple works perfectly, but be sure to drain it well to avoid excess liquid in the cobbler.

Q2: How do I prevent the cobbler from becoming soggy?
A: Properly draining the pineapple and lightly greasing the baking dish helps prevent sogginess. Don’t overmix the batter.

Q3: Can I make this cobbler ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble it a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Q4: Can I use a different fruit?
A: Absolutely! Peaches, berries, or a tropical fruit mix work well with the cream cheese filling.

Q5: How long does it take to bake?
A: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45-55 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the batter comes out clean.

Final Thoughts

Pineapple Cream Cheese Cobbler is a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of fruit with creamy richness and a tender crust. Its versatility, ease of preparation, and irresistible flavor make it a must-have recipe for any baker’s collection. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, a holiday celebration, or a cozy night at home, this cobbler is sure to impress and satisfy. Don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors and toppings—every variation is a delicious adventure.

Pineapple Cream Cheese Cobbler

Author: Sarah White

Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A rich and creamy cobbler with sweet pineapple and smooth cream cheese, perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups fresh or canned pineapple, drained and chopped

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
3/4 cup milk
Optional: shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or cinnamon

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Prepare the pineapple by chopping fresh pineapple into small pieces or draining canned pineapple thoroughly.
In a bowl, beat the cream cheese with sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

In a separate bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in milk and vanilla until a soft batter forms.
Spread half of the batter into the prepared dish, layer pineapple on top, then dollop the cream cheese mixture. Drop remaining batter over the top.
Bake for 45-55 minutes, until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cover with foil if browning too quickly.

Cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally with ice cream or whipped cream.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Can be frozen for up to 3 months. Try variations with peaches, berries, or shredded coconut for a tropical twist.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Dessert

Method: Baking
Cuisine: American