Description
The first time I tried Pineapple Bars, I was enchanted by the intoxicating scent of buttery shortbread mingling with the tropical sweetness of ripe pineapple. It was a sunny afternoon, and as I took my first bite, the tangy filling danced on my tongue, transporting me to a summer paradise. These layered delights are not just a dessert—they’re a little slice of happiness, perfect for brightening up your potlucks or transforming a mundane afternoon into something magical.
What makes these Pineapple Bars truly special is how easy they are to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a healthy comfort food that your family will adore, making this an ideal easy recipe for busy weeknights or meal-prepping. Whether you opt for fresh, canned, or frozen pineapple, you’ll find that this dessert is endlessly versatile—perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup butter (softened)
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 cups diced pineapple
- 1/4 cup flour
- 3 eggs
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is essential for the crust to become perfectly golden and buttery.
- Prepare the Crust: In a stand mixer or food processor, combine flour, softened butter, and powdered sugar. Mix until a dough forms, then press it evenly into the bottom and about ½ inch up the sides of an 8×8-inch baking dish. Bake for 18-20 minutes until light golden.
- Make the Filling: While the crust is baking, gather your filling ingredients and blend them in a food processor or blender. Mix until smooth and frothy, ensuring the pineapple is well integrated.
- Assemble & Bake: Once the crust is ready, carefully pour the pineapple mixture over it. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the top is slightly golden brown and the center is set.
- Cool & Serve: Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for better slicing. Dust with powdered sugar before cutting into squares for an elegant finish.
Notes
- Chill Before Cutting: Refrigerate the bars until completely cool for clean, even squares.
- Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on the oven; baking too long can lead to a dry filling.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh pineapple whenever possible.
- Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to tweak the amount of sugar based on your sweetness preference.
- Experiment with Variations: Don’t hesitate to use different types of pineapple.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Pineapple Bars, tropical dessert, easy recipe, summer treat