Description

This easy Scalloped Pineapple recipe is a simple yet indulgent dish featuring fresh pineapple layered with a creamy plant-based cheese sauce enhanced by a natural gelling agent. With tropical sweetness, warming cinnamon, and subtle umami notes, it makes a perfect warm side or comforting dessert for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

2 cups fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
1 cup plant-based cheese
1 tsp natural gelling agent
1 cup plant-based milk
2 tbsp maple syrup (natural)
1 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp sea salt

Optional Variations & Garnishes

2 tbsp toasted shredded coconut (optional for tropical twist)
1/4 tsp nutmeg or cardamom (optional for spice medley)
1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional for crunch)
1/2 cup canned pineapple chunks packed in grape juice (optional juicier bite alternative)
Plant-based creamy coconut yogurt (optional substitute for plant-based cheese)
Chopped fresh mint leaves (optional garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Pineapple: Peel and core the fresh pineapple, then cut it into thin, even slices. Set aside a few slices for garnishing if desired.
Make the Creamy Base: In a saucepan, whisk together plant-based milk, maple syrup (natural), vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), ground cinnamon, and sea salt over medium heat. Bring to a light simmer to meld the flavors.
Activate the Natural Gelling Agent: Slowly whisk the natural gelling agent into the warm mixture, stirring continuously to dissolve smoothly without clumps. Cook for a few minutes until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
Combine Cheese and Sauce: Add the plant-based cheese to the thickened sauce and stir until it melts into a rich, velvety blend that forms the scalloped texture base.
Layer and Bake: Grease a baking dish. Layer half of the pineapple slices in the dish, spread half of the cheese sauce over them, then repeat with remaining pineapple and sauce. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Cool and Serve: Let the scalloped pineapple rest for 10 minutes after baking to set perfectly. Serve warm as a side dish or dessert, optionally garnished with toasted coconut or fresh mint.

Notes

Ensure pineapple slices are uniform for even cooking and texture.
Use gentle medium to low heat when adding the natural gelling agent to avoid clumping.
Allow the dish to rest after baking for best slicing and serving results.
Use ripe pineapple for optimal sweetness and juiciness.
Adjust sweetness by tasting the sauce and adding more maple syrup (natural) if desired.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Fusion

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 180
Sugar: 16g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 24g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: scalloped pineapple, plant-based cheese, tropical side dish, plant-based dessert, creamy pineapple bake, dairy-free pineapple recipe