Pineapple Cream Cheese Cobbler

When you think of cobblers, warm berries or juicy peaches may come to mind. But if you’re looking for a dessert that breaks tradition and bursts with tropical flavor, then Pineapple Cream Cheese Cobbler is the one to try. This indulgent treat combines the bright, tangy sweetness of pineapple with the rich, velvety creaminess of cream cheese—all baked under a buttery golden crust. It’s a dessert that feels sunny, tropical, and decadent, perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or whenever you want something a little different from the usual cobbler.

Why Pineapple + Cream Cheese is Dessert Magic

Pineapple has a naturally tangy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the richness of cream cheese. The cream cheese adds body and smoothness, creating little pockets of creamy indulgence in every bite. When baked together, the flavors balance out: fruity brightness, creamy richness, and buttery crust.

This cobbler tastes like a cross between a pineapple cheesecake and a classic Southern cobbler—a true comfort food with a tropical twist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Fruit Layer

• 2 cans (20 oz each) crushed pineapple, undrained
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cream Cheese Layer

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

Batter (Cobbler Topping)

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pineapple Base

1. In a saucepan, combine crushed pineapple (with juice), sugar, and cornstarch.
2. Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens slightly, about 5–7 minutes.
3. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

1. Beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add powdered sugar, egg yolk, and lemon juice (if using). Mix until creamy.
3. This mixture should be thick but spreadable.

Step 3: Mix the Batter

1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add milk and melted butter, stirring until smooth.

Step 4: Assemble the Cobbler

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Pour the batter into the dish. Do not stir once you pour.
3. Spoon pineapple mixture evenly over the batter.
4. Drop dollops of cream cheese filling across the top. Swirl lightly with a knife for a marbled effect, or leave in chunks for creamy bites.

Step 5: Bake

Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling at the edges.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Serve the cobbler warm, either plain or topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Tips for the Best Pineapple Cream Cheese Cobbler

• Use crushed pineapple: It gives the cobbler a smoother texture and spreads flavor evenly.
• Don’t overmix the batter: The cobbler topping bakes best when the batter is just stirred together.
• Try fresh pineapple: If you want an extra punch of freshness, use about 4 cups of diced fresh pineapple instead of canned. Add ½ cup pineapple juice for moisture.
• Add a coconut twist: Sprinkle shredded coconut on top before baking for a tropical flair.

Why This Cobbler Wins Every Time

This dessert is the kind that makes people close their eyes when they take a bite. The pineapple adds sunshine, the cream cheese delivers comfort, and the cobbler crust ties it all together in one warm, gooey, golden-brown dish. It’s easy to make, crowd-pleasing, and tastes like something you’d find at a family reunion or a Southern picnic—only with a tropical twist.

Whether served straight from the oven or chilled the next day, Pineapple Cream Cheese Cobbler never disappoints.