Yes, for the best flavor you want to use fresh pineapple. I realize trimming and preparing a pineapple for this recipe can be a hassle and time-consuming at the best of times. There are a couple of options to help save you some time.  First, some grocery stores sell fresh pineapple with the core and skin removed, which is a fabulous option if you struggle with trimming the fruit as I do.  Second, you can also use fresh pineapple rings or spears, already cut and cored. While canned pineapple rings or chunks sound like an easy option, I simply don’t feel it maintains the same texture and flavor as the fresh ones when used to make Brazilian baked pineapple.