Pineapple butter is a luscious spread that brings a tropical twist to your breakfast table. Made by slow-cooking pineapple with sugar and spices, it transforms fresh fruit into a rich, velvety treat that’s perfect on toast, pancakes, or even as a glaze for meats. This recipe captures the vibrant sweetness of pineapple while adding a warm depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible.
We love how easy it is to make pineapple butter at home with just a few ingredients and a little patience. It’s a fantastic way to use up ripe pineapples and enjoy a unique, homemade condiment that stands out from traditional fruit butters. Whether you’re looking to elevate your morning routine or add a creative touch to your dishes, this pineapple butter recipe is a delicious, crowd-pleasing choice.
Ingredients
To craft our Pineapple Butter, we need fresh and vibrant ingredients that build layers of tropical flavor and velvety texture. Each component plays a crucial role in balancing sweetness, acidity, and warmth, creating a spread that is both rich and versatile.
- Fresh Pineapple – 4 cups, peeled and finely chopped
The star ingredient offering natural sweetness and bright acidity. - Granulated Sugar – 1 cup
Balances the pineapple’s tartness and aids in caramelization. - Unsalted Butter – 4 tablespoons
Contributes a luscious, creamy mouthfeel essential for that buttery texture. - Ground Cinnamon – 1 teaspoon
Adds warmth and a subtle spice note to deepen the flavor profile. - Ground Ginger – ½ teaspoon
Provides a gentle zing enhancing the tropical notes. - Vanilla Extract – 1 teaspoon
Injects a smooth, fragrant aroma that rounds out the spices. - Salt – ⅛ teaspoon
Elevates the sweetness and balances the flavors perfectly.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Role in Recipe |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh Pineapple | 4 cups (chopped) | Base flavor and natural sweetness |
| Granulated Sugar | 1 cup | Sweetener and caramelizer |
| Unsalted Butter | 4 tablespoons | Creaminess and texture |
| Ground Cinnamon | 1 teaspoon | Warm spice note |
| Ground Ginger | ½ teaspoon | Bright, spicy undertone |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon | Aroma and smooth finish |
| Salt | ⅛ teaspoon | Flavor enhancer |
“Using fresh pineapple at its peak ripeness guarantees the richest flavor and best texture for our pineapple butter.”
These ingredients come together through careful slow cooking to transform simple components into a decadent tropical butter perfect for breakfast or culinary creativity.
Equipment Needed
To ensure our Pineapple Butter turns out perfectly smooth and richly flavored, having the right equipment is essential. Here is what we need to create this tropical delight:
- Heavy-bottomed saucepan
A sturdy saucepan with a thick base is critical. It guarantees even heat distribution and prevents the pineapple mixture from burning during the slow cooking process.
- Sharp knife and cutting board
For finely chopping the fresh pineapple into small pieces, ensuring quick and uniform cooking.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
Used for frequent stirring. These utensils resist heat and allow us to mix the butter evenly without scratching the pan.
- Measuring cups and spoons
Exact measurements of pineapple, sugar, butter, and spices are crucial for balanced flavors and smooth consistency.
- Immersion blender (optional but recommended)
To achieve that velvety smooth texture synonymous with quality pineapple butter, blending the cooked mixture briefly is highly effective.
- Glass jar or airtight container
Proper storage in a sterilized container keeps our pineapple butter fresh and ready to elevate any breakfast or dish.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Heavy-bottomed saucepan | Even, gentle heating without burning |
| Sharp knife & cutting board | Fine, uniform pineapple chopping |
| Wooden spoon/silicone spatula | Frequent stirring without damaging pan |
| Measuring cups & spoons | Accurate ingredient measurements |
| Immersion blender (optional) | Smooth, creamy texture after cooking |
| Glass jar or airtight container | Safe storage to maintain freshness |
As Julia Child said, “No one is born a great cook, one learns by doing.” Our careful preparation and the right tools bring this recipe to life. With these essentials in hand, we are set to transform fresh pineapple into luscious, spreadable pineapple butter.
Prep Work
Before we start crafting our rich and velvety pineapple butter, proper preparation is key. Organizing our ingredients and tools ensures a smooth and efficient cooking process.
Preparing the Pineapple
First, choose a ripe pineapple with a fragrant aroma and golden color for the best flavor. To prepare:
- Place the pineapple on a cutting board.
- Using a sharp knife, slice off the top and bottom.
- Stand the pineapple upright and carefully cut away the skin, removing all the eyes.
- Cut the peeled pineapple into quarters.
- Remove the tough core from each quarter by slicing lengthwise.
- Finely chop the pineapple into small pieces, aiming for about 4 cups to match our recipe quantity.
This fine chopping is essential to help the pineapple cook down evenly and release its natural sweetness, contributing to the butter’s smooth texture.
Gathering Spices and Other Ingredients
Set up all flavor-enhancing ingredients before cooking to maintain a steady workflow:
| Ingredient | Measurement | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup | Balances tartness and aids caramelization |
| Unsalted butter | 4 tablespoons | Adds creamy richness |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon | Provides warm spice notes |
| Ground ginger | ½ teaspoon | Adds a subtle zing |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | Imparts fragrant aroma |
| Salt | ⅛ teaspoon | Enhances overall flavor |
Place these in small bowls or measuring spoons for easy access.
Having everything prepped puts us in the best position to create the perfect pineapple butter—smooth, flavorful, and ready to elevate any dish.
Cooking Instructions
Let’s transform our fresh pineapple and carefully selected ingredients into smooth, rich Pineapple Butter through precise cooking steps. Follow along closely to ensure the perfect balance of flavors and texture.
Combining Ingredients on the Stove
- Preheat your heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat to ensure even cooking without burning.
- Add 4 cups of finely chopped fresh pineapple directly into the pan.
- Stir in 1 cup of granulated sugar gradually. This balances pineapple’s natural tartness and encourages caramelization.
- Add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter to bring creaminess to the mixture.
- Sprinkle in spices: 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and ½ teaspoon of ground ginger for warm, aromatic depth.
- Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and ⅛ teaspoon of salt to elevate overall flavor.
- Use a wooden spoon or silicone spatula to gently combine all ingredients until evenly mixed.
Pro Tip: Stirring continuously at this point prevents sticking and promotes even melting of butter and sugar.
Simmering and Reducing the Mixture
- Once combined, reduce the heat to low to bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Maintain a low simmer for about 45-60 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid scorching.
- During simmering, the pineapple will break down, and the mixture will thicken. Use an immersion blender intermittently to blend to a velvety smooth consistency.
- Observe the texture carefully — the butter should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon without running off quickly.
- Once the desired thickness is reached, remove from heat.
| Step | Action | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Simmering | Low heat, gentle simmer | 45 – 60 minutes | Stir frequently |
| Blending | Use immersion blender | Every 15 minutes | Ensures smooth, creamy texture |
| Thickness Check | Coats back of spoon | End of cooking | Should be rich and spreadable |
Remember: Patience during simmering is key. Too high heat will risk burning; too little heat means extended cooking times that can dry out your Pineapple Butter.
By carefully following these cooking steps, we craft perfectly textured Pineapple Butter — luscious, tropical richness ready to delight on toast, pancakes, or as a unique glaze for your favorite dishes.
Blending and Finalizing the Pineapple Butter
Once the pineapple mixture has simmered to a thick, jam-like consistency, it is time for the critical step of blending and finalizing our pineapple butter.
Step 1: Check Consistency and Taste
- Before blending, check the texture by stirring the mixture. It should cling softly to the spoon without being runny.
- Taste the mixture carefully. If needed, adjust sweetness by adding a bit more sugar or a pinch of salt for balance.
- This stage ensures a perfectly balanced flavor profile emphasizing the natural sweetness of pineapple with subtle spice undertones.
Step 2: Blending for Smoothness
- Use an immersion blender directly in the saucepan to puree the pineapple mixture.
- Blend until the texture is velvety smooth without large pineapple chunks.
- Blending transforms the cooked fruit into a rich, spreadable butter that melts beautifully on warm toast or pancakes.
Step 3: Final Touches
- Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to enhance aroma and round out flavors.
- Add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter while the mixture is still warm. Stir until the butter has fully melted and incorporated.
- The butter adds a creamy texture and luscious mouthfeel, highlighting the tropical essence of the pineapple.
Step 4: Cooling and Storage
- Transfer the finished pineapple butter into sterilized glass jars or airtight containers.
- Allow it to cool to room temperature before sealing.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks or freeze for longer preservation.
| Step | Description | Key Details |
|---|---|---|
| Consistency & Taste Check | Stir and taste before blending | Adjust sugar and salt if needed |
| Blending | Use immersion blender for smooth texture | Blend until velvety smooth |
| Final Touches | Add vanilla extract and butter | Butter melts in warm mixture |
| Cooling & Storage | Cool then store in jars | Refrigerate up to 3 weeks |
“Blending transforms simple cooked pineapple into a buttery spread that bursts with tropical flavor and creamy indulgence.”
By following these steps meticulously, we ensure our pineapple butter achieves the perfect balance of texture and flavor—ready to elevate breakfasts and savory dishes alike.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
To keep our Pineapple Butter fresh and flavorful, proper storage is essential. After transferring the warm butter into sterilized glass jars, allow it to cool to room temperature before sealing. Once sealed, place the jars in the refrigerator where the pineapple butter will remain at its best quality for up to three weeks. For longer storage, we recommend freezing the butter in airtight containers or freezer-safe bags. This method preserves its tropical richness for up to three months.
| Storage Method | Container Type | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Sterilized glass jars | Up to 3 weeks | Keep sealed and refrigerated |
| Freezing | Airtight containers or freezer bags | Up to 3 months | Thaw overnight in refrigerator before use |
When served, our Pineapple Butter shines as a versatile tropical spread. Here are some of our favorite serving ideas:
- Spread generously on warm toast, bagels, or English muffins for a fruity breakfast boost.
- Use as a glaze for grilled or roasted meats such as chicken, pork, or ham to add a sweet, tangy layer of flavor.
- Swirl into plain yogurt or oatmeal to create a vibrant, naturally sweetened treat.
- Incorporate as a filling for pastries, crepes, or thumbprint cookies to infuse heavenly pineapple notes.
- Serve alongside sharp cheeses or charcuterie boards for a delightful sweet contrast.
Because of its luscious, creamy texture and balanced spice, our pineapple butter is a delightful companion to both sweet and savory dishes. We suggest serving it slightly chilled or at room temperature to maximize its rich tropical aroma and taste.
Make-Ahead Tips
Preparing pineapple butter ahead of time allows us to enjoy its tropical sweetness whenever we desire while enhancing its flavors through resting. Here are key steps to optimize your make-ahead experience:
- Cool Completely Before Sealing
After cooking and blending, allow the pineapple butter to cool to room temperature. Sealing warm butter traps steam, which can cause spoilage or alter the texture.
- Use Proper Storage Containers
We recommend sterile glass jars or airtight containers to maintain freshness and prevent contamination. Glass jars also avoid flavor absorption compared to plastic.
- Label and Date Your Jars
Clearly mark containers with the preparation date to keep track of freshness.
| Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 3 weeks | Keep sealed and refrigerated promptly. |
| Freezing | Up to 3 months | Use freezer-safe containers or bags; thaw in refrigerator before use. |
- Thawing Frozen Pineapple Butter
For best results, transfer frozen pineapple butter to the refrigerator several hours or overnight. Stir gently once thawed to restore smooth texture.
- Flavor Development Over Time
Allowing pineapple butter to rest for 24-48 hours in the refrigerator before serving enhances its flavor melding, resulting in a richer, more balanced taste.
“Patience is a key ingredient in unlocking the full tropical richness of pineapple butter.“
- Portion for Convenience
Consider dividing pineapple butter into smaller jars or containers. This prevents repeated exposure of the entire batch to air and reduces spoilage risk.
By following these make-ahead tips, we can keep our homemade pineapple butter fresh, flavorful, and ready to elevate breakfasts and meals anytime.
Conclusion
Pineapple butter is a fantastic way to bring a tropical twist to your kitchen. Its rich, creamy texture and warm spices create a versatile spread that brightens up breakfasts and adds depth to savory dishes. Making it at home lets us enjoy fresh, natural flavors without any preservatives.
With just a few simple ingredients and some patience, we can transform ripe pineapples into a delicious condiment that keeps well and elevates everyday meals. Whether we use it on toast, as a glaze, or mixed into yogurt, pineapple butter is sure to become a favorite in our culinary repertoire.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is pineapple butter?
Pineapple butter is a smooth, sweet spread made by slow-cooking fresh pineapple with sugar, butter, and spices. It’s a thick, creamy condiment that adds a tropical twist to breakfasts and can be used as a glaze or spread on various dishes.
What ingredients are needed to make pineapple butter?
You need fresh pineapple, granulated sugar, unsalted butter, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. These combine to create a flavorful, balanced, and creamy spread.
How long does it take to cook pineapple butter?
The pineapple butter simmers for about 45-60 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the mixture to thicken into a jam-like consistency before blending.
What kitchen tools are essential for making pineapple butter?
Key tools include a heavy-bottomed saucepan, sharp knife, cutting board, wooden spoon or silicone spatula, measuring cups and spoons, and an immersion blender for a smooth texture.
How should pineapple butter be stored?
Store pineapple butter in sterilized glass jars or airtight containers. Refrigerate it for up to three weeks or freeze for longer storage, up to three months, to maintain freshness.
Can pineapple butter be made ahead of time?
Yes, it can be made ahead by cooling completely before sealing jars. Label and date containers, store properly, and thaw frozen butter before use for best flavor and texture.
How can pineapple butter be served?
Pineapple butter is versatile—spread it on toast, bagels, or English muffins, use as a glaze for meats, mix into yogurt or oatmeal, fill pastries, or serve with cheese on charcuterie boards.
Why use an immersion blender when making pineapple butter?
An immersion blender creates a velvety smooth texture by pureeing the cooked pineapple mixture, ensuring the spread is creamy and free of chunks.
What is the benefit of using ripe pineapple?
Ripe pineapple offers natural sweetness and acidity that balance well with sugar and spices, giving the butter a rich, tropical flavor.
How can I enhance the flavor of pineapple butter?
Letting the pineapple butter rest for 24-48 hours before serving helps develop deeper flavors. Adjusting sweetness and seasoning before blending also fine-tunes the taste.