Pineapple Bliss Bars are a delightful treat that combines a buttery crust with a creamy pineapple filling and a light dusting of powdered sugar. This recipe offers a refreshing and sweet bar that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to special events. Whether you’re a pineapple lover or simply looking for a new dessert to try, these bars are sure to be a hit. Let’s dive into how you can make these delicious Pineapple Bliss Bars at home!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
For the Filling:
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, well-drained
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Topping:
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
1. Prepare the Oven and Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal of the bars.
2. Make the Crust:
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Mix well to distribute the sugar evenly.
- Add 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter, fork, or your hands, cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Use the back of a spoon or your fingers to press it down firmly.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until it starts to turn golden brown. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Filling:
- While the crust is baking, drain the can of crushed pineapple thoroughly. Press the pineapple with a paper towel or cheesecloth to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial to avoid a soggy filling.
- In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of sour cream and 1/4 cup of granulated sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
- Add 2 large eggs and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the sour cream mixture. Mix well to combine.
- Gently fold in the well-drained crushed pineapple until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
4. Assemble and Bake:
- Pour the pineapple filling over the pre-baked crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula or the back of a spoon.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
5. Add the Topping:
- Once the bars have cooled to room temperature, dust the top with powdered sugar using a fine mesh sieve. This adds a touch of sweetness and a lovely presentation.
6. Cut and Serve:
- Carefully lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang, if used. Place them on a cutting board and cut into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference.
- Serve the Pineapple Bliss Bars at room temperature. They can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days or refrigerated for longer storage.
Tips for Perfect Pineapple Bliss Bars
- Drain Pineapple Well: Ensure that the crushed pineapple is well-drained to prevent excess moisture from making the bars soggy. Pressing the pineapple with a paper towel helps remove additional liquid.
- Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to ensure that they set properly and cut cleanly.
- Experiment with Toppings: For added flair, consider topping the bars with shredded coconut or a drizzle of caramel sauce before dusting with powdered sugar.
Pineapple Bliss Bars are a delectable treat that brings together a buttery crust, a creamy pineapple filling, and a touch of sweetness from powdered sugar. Whether you’re serving them at a family gathering or enjoying them as a personal treat, these bars are sure to impress. With their refreshing pineapple flavor and smooth texture, they are the perfect dessert to add to your recipe collection. Enjoy making and sharing these blissful bars!
