Pineapple Bars are a delicious, tropical dessert that combines a buttery shortbread crust with a sweet, tangy pineapple filling. These easy-to-make bars are perfect for summertime gatherings, potlucks, or just as a delightful treat to brighten up your day. With their refreshing pineapple flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture, these bars are sure to become a favorite.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Tips for Perfect Pineapple Bars
- Recipe Variations
- FAQs
- Serving Suggestions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
For the Pineapple Filling
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
For the Topping
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Crust
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- Make the Crust: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the flour and mix until the dough comes together. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
Prepare the Pineapple Filling
- Mix the Filling: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the drained crushed pineapple, granulated sugar, eggs, flour, salt, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Add the Filling: Pour the pineapple mixture over the partially baked crust, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake: Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges are golden brown.
- Cool and Dust with Powdered Sugar: Allow the pineapple bars to cool completely in the baking dish. Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar if desired, then slice into bars.
Tips for Perfect Pineapple Bars
- Drain the Pineapple Well: Make sure to drain the crushed pineapple thoroughly to avoid excess moisture, which can make the filling too runny.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature eggs helps the filling mix more evenly and bake more consistently.
- Cool Completely Before Slicing: Let the bars cool completely before slicing to ensure clean cuts and prevent the filling from being too soft.
Recipe Variations
- Coconut Pineapple Bars: Add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut to the pineapple filling for an extra tropical touch.
- Pineapple Cream Cheese Bars: Add a layer of sweetened cream cheese between the crust and the pineapple filling for added creaminess.
- Nutty Pineapple Bars: Stir in 1/2 cup of chopped macadamia nuts to the crust mixture for a nutty flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
A: Yes, you can use fresh pineapple. Just make sure to chop it finely and drain any excess juice before using.
Q: How do I store leftover pineapple bars?
A: Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Let them come to room temperature before serving, if desired.
Q: Can I freeze pineapple bars?
A: Yes, you can freeze these bars. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- With Whipped Cream: Serve the bars with a dollop of whipped cream for extra creaminess.
- With Fresh Pineapple: Garnish each bar with a small piece of fresh pineapple for added freshness.
- As a Tropical Dessert Platter: Pair these bars with other tropical treats like coconut macaroons and mango slices for a themed dessert platter.
Pineapple Bars are a simple yet delightful dessert that brings a burst of tropical flavor to any occasion. With their buttery crust and sweet pineapple filling, these bars are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making them for a party, a family gathering, or just because, this easy recipe will bring a taste of the tropics to your table. Give it a try and enjoy a little slice of paradise!