Pineapple substitutes
Pineapple substitutes — 6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Mango
Same amount as the pineapple
Tropical fruit with similar sweetness and texture to pineapple.
The best substitutes for pineapple are mango, peaches, or apricots, depending on the recipe.
- Verdict —
- Tweak it
- What changes —
- different taste, similar texture
- Best for —
- desserts
Updated 26 Jul 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of pineapple | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mangodesserts | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 2 | Peachesdesserts | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 3 | Apricotsdesserts | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 4 | Canned pineappledesserts | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 5 | Papayadesserts | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 6 | Nectarinesdesserts | Same amountWorks | Works |
Mango
different taste, similar texture
Tropical fruit with similar sweetness and texture to pineapple.
- Best for
- desserts, salads, smoothies, snacks
Remove pit before using. Mango is less acidic than pineapple.
Peaches
similar taste and texture
Sweet stone fruit with similar texture and sweetness to pineapple.
- Best for
- desserts, salads, smoothies, snacks
Choose ripe, soft peaches for best texture. Slightly less acidic than pineapple.
Apricots
similar taste and texture
Sweet stone fruit with similar texture and sweetness to pineapple.
- Best for
- desserts, baking, salads, preserves
Remove pit before using. Apricots are slightly more tart than pineapple.
Canned pineapple
similar taste, different texture
Convenient substitute when fresh pineapple isn't available. Choose pineapple in light syrup or water.
- Best for
- desserts, smoothies, baking, sauces
Drain well before using. May be softer than fresh pineapple, so adjust cooking time.
Papaya
different taste, similar texture
Tropical fruit with similar sweetness and texture to pineapple.
- Best for
- desserts, salads, smoothies, snacks
Remove seeds and skin before using. Papaya is less acidic than pineapple.
Nectarines
similar taste and texture
Sweet stone fruit with similar texture and sweetness to pineapple.
- Best for
- desserts, salads, smoothies, snacks
Remove pit before using. Nectarines are slightly more acidic than pineapple.
Questions
4 questionsHow do I know when a pineapple is ripe?
A ripe pineapple should feel heavy for its size and have a sweet aroma at the base. The skin should have a slight give when pressed gently, and the color should be vibrant and consistent.
Can I use frozen pineapple instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen pineapple works well as a substitute for fresh pineapple in many applications. It's great for smoothies and as a frozen snack. Thaw it completely before using in raw preparations.
Why is my pineapple not sweet?
Pineapples may not be sweet if they're not fully ripe or if they were picked too early. Choose pineapples that are heavy for their size and have a sweet aroma. Some varieties are naturally less sweet than others.
Can I eat pineapple core?
Pineapple core is generally not eaten, though it's not harmful. It's tough and fibrous, so it's usually removed before eating or using in recipes.
Tips for substituting pineapple
7 tips- Choose pineapples that are heavy for their size and have a sweet aroma at the base
- Store cut pineapple in the refrigerator and use within 3-5 days
- Freeze pineapple chunks for smoothies or as a frozen snack
- Pineapple pairs well with coconut, ginger, lime, and chili peppers
- For salads, cut pineapple into uniform pieces for best presentation
- Pineapple is best served chilled for maximum refreshment
- Remove the core before using pineapple in recipes