Pineapple Bars
235
18
1.30k
Pineapple Bars are the ideal treat for sunny afternoons or any gathering. One bite of these dessert squares delivers a delightful combination of tropical flavors and buttery crust, making them a perfect end to a meal. My fond memories of whipping up Pineapple Bars during family get-togethers and potlucks are etched in my mind—a time when laughter filled the kitchen and the tantalizing aroma of pineapple wafted through the air. They’re simple to make, and their bright flavors can instantly elevate any occasion.
Reasons to Try It
The charm of this recipe lies in its effortless blend of sweet and tangy pineapple enveloped in a buttery crust. Whether it’s a lazy Sunday afternoon or a bustling holiday feast, these Pineapple Bars are always a crowd-pleaser. Not only are they quick to whip up, but they are also budget-friendly, inviting everyone to come back for seconds.
Here’s what one satisfied baker had to say:
“These Pineapple Bars are like a sunny day on a plate! They disappeared at our last barbecue!”
Preparing Pineapple Bars
Making Pineapple Bars is a straightforward process, perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers. You’ll start with a delicious buttery crust followed by that luscious pineapple filling. This recipe is as much about the journey as it is about the destination—it’s a simple yet rewarding experience every time.
What You’ll Need
To create these delightful bars, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, well-drained
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar for dusting (for presentation!)
Feel free to substitute fresh pineapple if you’re feeling adventurous, or experiment with a gluten-free flour alternative for a wheat-free version.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Pan: Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups flour, 1/2 cup sugar, and 1/4 tsp salt. Cut in the cold, cubed butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan and bake for 15 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden.
- Create the Filling: In another bowl, whisk together 2 eggs and 1 cup of sugar until smooth. Gradually add 1/4 cup of flour, baking powder, and vanilla extract, stirring well. Gently fold in the well-drained crushed pineapple.
- Bake It All Together: Pour this luscious mixture over the warm crust. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, until the center is set and the edges are golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Allow your delightful bars to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar and then slice into squares for serving.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Pineapple Bars are delicious on their own, but if you want to elevate your dessert experience, consider pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They can also be served alongside fresh fruit salad for a refreshing balance. Your family and friends will thank you for this delightful treat!
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
To ensure your Pineapple Bars stay fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to prolong their life, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just be sure to place a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking!
Pro Chef Tips
- Draining the Pineapple: Make sure to thoroughly drain the crushed pineapple to avoid excess moisture that could make the bars soggy.
- Chill the Dough: For an even flakier crust, consider placing the crust mixture in the fridge for about 30 minutes before pressing it into the pan.
- Batch Cooking: This recipe is great for doubling. Just increase the pan size and enjoy the extra squares!
Creative Twists
If you’re up for exploring, try adding some shredded coconut for an extra tropical twist or experimenting with a lemon glaze for a citrus zing! For those who love chocolate, a drizzle of dark chocolate ganache can transform these bars into a decadent dessert.
Your Questions Answered
Q: How long does it take to prepare these bars?
A: Overall, expect about 10-15 minutes of prep time and around 40-45 minutes for baking.
Q: Can I substitute coconut flour for all-purpose flour?
A: Yes, but be aware that coconut flour absorbs more moisture, so you may need to adjust the liquid ingredients.
Q: Is it safe to eat leftover bars after a few days?
A: Yes, as long as they’ve been stored properly in an airtight container, they’re safe to eat for up to 3 days at room temperature.
Pineapple Bars
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, combine 1.5 cups flour, 0.5 cups sugar, and 0.25 tsp salt.
- Cut in the cold, cubed butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan and bake for 15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
- In another bowl, whisk together 2 eggs and 1 cup sugar until smooth.
- Gradually add 0.25 cups flour, baking powder, and vanilla extract, stirring well.
- Gently fold in the well-drained crushed pineapple.
- Pour the pineapple filling over the warm crust.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, until the center is set and the edges are golden brown.
- Allow the bars to cool completely.
- Dust with powdered sugar and slice into squares for serving.
