Tropical desserts bring a burst of sunshine and fruity freshness to any table, no matter the season. Pineapple Bliss Bars perfectly capture that tropical vibe with a rich buttery shortbread crust topped by a tangy, luscious pineapple filling. They’re simple to make, irresistibly delicious, and perfect for everything from summer picnics to cozy winter gatherings.
What Makes Pineapple Bliss Bars So Special?
These bars stand out for their delightful contrast between a crisp, buttery crust and a soft, sweet-and-tart pineapple topping. The tropical pineapple flavor offers a refreshing twist on classic dessert bars, making them a crowd-pleaser year-round.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- For the crust: Flour, granulated sugar, salt, and cold unsalted butter
- For the filling: Crushed pineapple (well-drained), eggs, granulated sugar, flour, baking powder, and vanilla extract
- For finishing: Powdered sugar for dusting
Optional ingredients like shredded coconut or lime zest can add an extra tropical flair.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the crust:
Mix flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press this evenly into a parchment-lined 9×13-inch pan. Bake at 350°F for about 15 minutes, or until lightly golden. Let it cool slightly.
2. Make the pineapple filling:
Whisk eggs and sugar until smooth. Stir in flour, baking powder, and vanilla extract. Gently fold in the well-drained crushed pineapple.
3. Bake the bars:
Pour the filling over the pre-baked crust and bake for 25-30 minutes until the filling is set and edges turn golden.
4. Cool and finish:
Allow bars to cool completely in the pan. Dust generously with powdered sugar before slicing into squares.
Expert Tips for Success
- Drain pineapple well: Excess moisture can make the crust soggy. Press pineapple in a sieve and pat dry if needed.
- Pre-bake the crust: This step ensures a crisp base that holds up under the moist filling.
- Use parchment paper: It makes removing bars from the pan easy and clean.
Variations to Try
- Coconut lovers: Add shredded coconut to the crust and sprinkle toasted coconut on top after baking.
- Citrus twist: Stir in lime zest to the filling for a refreshing zing.
- Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour, adjusting baking times as needed.
Serving Suggestions
Perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or anytime you crave a tropical escape, these bars pair wonderfully with fruity cocktails, iced tea, or a scoop of pineapple or coconut sorbet.
Storage
Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate for up to a week. They freeze well too — freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a sealed bag for up to three months.
Nutritional Notes
Each bar (about 2×2 inches) offers a satisfying mix of carbs and fats, with sweetness from pineapple and sugar. To lighten up, reduce sugar or substitute some butter with applesauce.
Bring a little island sunshine to your dessert table with these easy and delicious Pineapple Bliss Bars — a tropical classic everyone will love!