Pineapple Coconut Delight Bars offer a tropical twist with sweet pineapple and shredded coconut. These bars have a buttery graham cracker crust and a creamy filling that’s topped with optional chopped nuts. Perfect for dessert lovers who crave tropical flavors, these bars are simple to make and taste like paradise in every bite!
Pineapple Coconut Delight Bars are a sweet and tropical dessert that’s easy to make and bursting with flavor. With a buttery graham cracker crust and a creamy pineapple-coconut filling, these bars are perfect for those who love tropical flavors. The optional addition of chopped nuts adds a nice crunch, making these bars a delightful treat for any occasion!
INGREDIENTS
- Graham cracker crumbs: 1 cup, for the crust
- Unsalted butter: ½ cup, melted, to bind the crust
- Sugar: ¼ cup, for sweetness
- Crushed pineapple: 1 cup, drained, for tropical flavor
- Sweetened condensed milk: 1 can, for a creamy filling
- Shredded coconut: 1 cup, for texture and flavor
- Chopped nuts (optional): ½ cup, for a crunchy topping
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Step 2:
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined.
- Step 3:
- Press the mixture into a greased 9x9-inch pan to form an even crust.
- Step 4:
- In another bowl, combine crushed pineapple, sweetened condensed milk, and shredded coconut.
- Step 5:
- Pour this mixture evenly over the crust.
- Step 6:
- Sprinkle chopped nuts on top if desired.
- Step 7:
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Step 8:
- Let the bars cool completely before cutting into squares.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- For a firmer texture, freeze the bars for 30 minutes before serving.
Helpful Notes
- To enhance the tropical flavor, add a splash of coconut extract to the filling mixture.
- Use unsweetened shredded coconut if you prefer a less sweet dessert.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Lisa suggests adding a pinch of sea salt to the crust mixture for a sweet-salty contrast.
Why You’ll Love Pineapple Coconut Delight Bars
These bars combine the sweet, tropical flavors of pineapple and coconut with the satisfying crunch of a graham cracker crust. They’re a deliciously simple dessert that’s perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or as a sweet treat for yourself. With their bright flavor and creamy texture, these bars are sure to bring a taste of paradise to your table!
FAQs
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple, but make sure to drain any excess juice to prevent the bars from becoming too soggy.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free graham crackers to make a gluten-free version of these bars.
Can I freeze these bars?
Yes, you can freeze the bars in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Can I add more coconut?
Yes, you can add more shredded coconut to the filling or even toast some for an extra coconut flavor.
Summary
Pineapple Coconut Delight Bars are a tropical treat with a graham cracker crust and a sweet, creamy pineapple-coconut filling. These bars are easy to make and perfect for satisfying your dessert cravings!