Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and canned pineapple for convenience.
- Tropical Flavor: A perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess.
- Great for Any Occasion: Perfect for potlucks, picnics, and parties.
- Easy to Make: No complicated steps or techniques required.
- Soft and Moist: A dessert that melts in your mouth.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- All-purpose flour
- Sugar
- Butter
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
- Crushed pineapple
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
- Prepare the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and butter. Mix until crumbly, then press into the bottom of the baking dish.
- Bake the Crust: Bake for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden.
- Make the Filling: In another bowl, beat eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, and crushed pineapple. Add baking powder and salt, mixing until smooth.
- Bake Again: Pour the filling over the baked crust and return to the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until set.
- Cool and Serve: Let the bars cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar. Slice and enjoy.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12 bars
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes
Variations
- Coconut Twist: Add shredded coconut to the batter for extra tropical flavor.
- Nutty Delight: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
- Extra Tangy: Mix in a little lemon zest for added brightness.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted white or dark chocolate over the bars for a richer taste.
Storage/Reheating
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: Keep refrigerated for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Wrap bars individually and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Let frozen bars thaw in the fridge or at room temperature before serving.
FAQs
How do I make sure my bars don’t turn out soggy?
Ensure you drain the crushed pineapple well before adding it to the batter. Too much liquid can make the bars overly moist.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, but make sure to finely crush it and drain any excess juice to prevent the bars from becoming too wet.
Do I need to refrigerate Pineapple Bliss Bars?
While they can stay at room temperature for a day or two, refrigeration keeps them fresher for longer.
Can I make these bars dairy-free?
Yes, use a plant-based butter substitute to make the crust dairy-free.
What’s the best way to cut the bars cleanly?
Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts to get neat slices.
Can I use pineapple chunks instead of crushed pineapple?
It’s best to use crushed pineapple for a smooth texture, but you can finely chop chunks if needed.
Can I add cream cheese to the filling?
Absolutely! Mixing in cream cheese will give the filling a creamy, cheesecake-like texture.
How do I make these bars extra soft and chewy?
Avoid overbaking, and make sure the filling is just set but not dry.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, they store well in the fridge and even taste better the next day as the flavors meld together.
What other toppings can I use instead of powdered sugar?
Try drizzling honey, caramel, or a light glaze for added sweetness.
Conclusion
Pineapple Bliss Bars are a simple yet delightful treat that brings a taste of the tropics to any occasion. With their buttery crust and sweet pineapple filling, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you enjoy them fresh or stored for later, these bars make for a delicious and refreshing dessert. Try different variations to make them your own, and enjoy a bite of bliss in every square!
Pineapple Bliss Bars
These Sweet Potato Muffins are moist, fluffy, and packed with warm spices and natural sweetness. Made with mashed sweet potatoes, cinnamon, and vanilla, they’re a delicious and wholesome option for breakfast, snacks, or a healthier dessert. Meal-prep friendly and freezer-safe, they bring the comforting flavors of fall to your kitchen year-round!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup butter, melted
For the Pineapple Filling:
- 2 large eggs
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained well
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For Topping:
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Crust:
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and melted butter until a crumbly dough forms.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, until lightly golden.
3. Make the Filling:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, and drained crushed pineapple.
- Add baking powder and salt, mixing until smooth.
4. Bake Again:
- Pour the pineapple mixture over the pre-baked crust.
- Return to the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the center is set.
5. Cool & Serve:
- Let the bars cool completely in the pan.
- Dust with powdered sugar, slice into squares, and enjoy!
Notes
- Drain the Pineapple Well: Excess liquid can make the bars soggy, so be sure to drain it thoroughly.
- Avoid Overbaking: Bake just until the filling is set to keep the bars soft and chewy.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: These bars taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together!