Pineapple Bars with Coconut Drizzle

Pineapple Bars with Coconut Drizzle are a tropical-inspired dessert that combines a buttery shortbread crust, a sweet and tangy pineapple filling, and a luscious coconut glaze. These bars are perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or when you’re craving a taste of the tropics in a simple, easy-to-make treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Tropical flavors: A delicious blend of sweet pineapple and creamy coconut.
• Easy to make: Simple ingredients and minimal prep time make this a hassle-free dessert.
• Perfect texture: A buttery crust, soft pineapple filling, and a smooth drizzle create a satisfying bite.
• Great for any occasion: Ideal for parties, picnics, or as a sweet afternoon treat.
• Make-ahead friendly: These bars store well, so you can prepare them in advance.

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the crust:

• All-purpose flour
• Unsalted butter (softened)
• Powdered sugar
• Salt

For the pineapple filling:

• Crushed pineapple (drained)
• Granulated sugar
• Cornstarch
• Egg yolks
• Vanilla extract
• Lemon juice

For the coconut drizzle:

• Powdered sugar
• Coconut milk
• Coconut extract (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the crust: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix flour, powdered sugar, salt, and softened butter until crumbly. Press into a greased baking dish and bake for 12-15 minutes until lightly golden.
2. Make the filling: In a saucepan, combine crushed pineapple, sugar, cornstarch, egg yolks, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened. Let cool slightly.
3. Assemble and bake: Pour the pineapple filling over the baked crust and spread evenly. Return to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes.
4. Cool and drizzle: Allow the bars to cool completely. Mix powdered sugar and coconut milk to create a smooth drizzle, then drizzle over the bars.
5. Slice and serve: Cut into squares and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes about 12 bars
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 30-35 minutes
• Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Nutty crunch: Add shredded coconut or chopped macadamia nuts to the crust.
• Extra coconut flavor: Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top before serving.
• Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the crust.
• Dairy-free version: Substitute butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free coconut milk for the drizzle.
• Pineapple-coconut bars: Mix shredded coconut into the pineapple filling for an extra tropical taste.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Serving tip: Enjoy chilled or let them come to room temperature for a softer texture.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes! Finely chop fresh pineapple and cook it down slightly before using.

What size pan should I use?

An 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch pan works best for these bars.

Can I use coconut flakes instead of coconut milk for the drizzle?

Yes! You can use coconut flakes as a topping and substitute regular milk in the drizzle.

How do I prevent the crust from getting too hard?

Bake just until golden and avoid overmixing the dough.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes! They taste even better the next day, as the flavors meld together.

How do I get clean slices?

Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat bars.

Can I make these without the drizzle?

Yes, they’re still delicious on their own or with powdered sugar dusted on top.

What other toppings can I use?

Try white chocolate drizzle, caramel sauce, or chopped nuts.

Can I add coconut directly to the filling?

Absolutely! It will add extra texture and flavor.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Use a 9×13-inch pan and adjust baking time slightly.

Conclusion

Pineapple Bars with Coconut Drizzle are a delightful tropical dessert that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. With a buttery crust, sweet pineapple filling, and creamy coconut topping, these bars are perfect for any occasion. Try them for your next gathering or as a refreshing treat to brighten your day!

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