The sweet tang of pineapple combined with the rich silkiness of coconut cream—just saying that makes me crave a tropical escape right from my kitchen. These Coconut Cream Pineapple Bars quickly became my go-to treat when I wanted something fresh, creamy, and effortlessly impressive. They’re perfect for anyone tired of the usual desserts and craving a burst of sunshine in every bite. Plus, they’re surprisingly simple to make, so whether you’re a seasoned chef or just love whipping up homemade goodies, these bars promise a crowd-pleasing flavor that feels both indulgent and refreshing. Let me take you through how easy it is to bring this tropical delight to your table!
Why choose Coconut Cream Pineapple Bars?
Bright Tropical Flavor: These bars blend the sweet tang of pineapple with rich, creamy coconut for a fresh, irresistible taste. Effortless Preparation: With simple ingredients and easy steps, anyone can create this tropical treat. Versatile Dessert: Perfect for casual snacks or special occasions, pleasing every crowd. Light Yet Indulgent: Creamy texture without heaviness makes it a guilt-free delight. Homemade Goodness: Say goodbye to boring desserts and enjoy a unique, refreshing homemade bar.
Coconut Cream Pineapple Bars Ingredients
For the Crust
- All-purpose flour – Use finely sifted for a tender, crisp base.
- Granulated sugar – Balances the rich coconut cream with a touch of sweetness.
- Unsalted butter – Cold and cubed to create a buttery, flaky crust.
- Salt – A pinch enhances all the flavors beautifully.
For the Filling
- Coconut cream – The star ingredient for that luxurious, creamy texture in Coconut Cream Pineapple Bars.
- Crushed pineapple – Drained well to avoid soggy filling, brings vibrant tropical zing.
- Sweetened condensed milk – Adds smooth sweetness and binds ingredients perfectly.
- Eggs – Provide structure and help the filling set just right.
- Vanilla extract – Boosts the natural sweetness and rounds out the tropical flavors.
For the Topping
- Toasted shredded coconut – Adds a delightful crunch and extra coconut flavor contrast.
- Powdered sugar – Lightly dust for a pretty, sweet finish that pops visually.
How to Make Coconut Cream Pineapple Bars
For the Crust:
- Preheat oven: Preheat to 350°F and line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy bar removal.
- Combine dry ingredients: Stir sifted flour, granulated sugar, and salt in a bowl until evenly blended, forming a tender, crisp base for the crust.
- Cut in butter: Add cold, cubed unsalted butter to the dry mix, then use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work it into pea-size, golden-tinged crumbs.
- Bake crust: Press the buttery crumbs firmly and evenly into the pan’s bottom. Bake at 350°F until edges turn golden brown, about 15 minutes.
For the Filling:
- Whisk mixture: In a clean bowl, whisk together coconut cream, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until silky smooth and fully combined.
- Fold in pineapple: Gently fold in the well-drained crushed pineapple, stirring to ensure it’s evenly distributed without adding extra moisture.
- Bake filling: Pour the filling over the warm crust and bake at 350°F until the edges are set and the center jiggles slightly, about 20–25 minutes.
For the Topping:
- Toast coconut: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast shredded coconut, stirring constantly until lightly golden and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes.
- Cool and finish: Let bars cool completely in the pan, then lift out using the parchment overhang. Dust with powdered sugar and sprinkle toasted coconut.
Optional: Garnish with fresh lime zest for a zesty pop.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Coconut Cream Pineapple Bars are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the crust and filling up to 24 hours in advance, allowing you to save time during busy weeknights. Simply follow the crust instructions and press the cooled crust into your lined pan, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap to keep it fresh in the fridge. For the filling, whisk together the coconut cream, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, and vanilla, fold in the crushed pineapple, and refrigerate in a separate container. When you’re ready to bake, pour the filling over the crust, pop it in the oven, and toast the coconut before serving for a delightful tropical treat that’s just as delicious!
Expert Tips for Coconut Cream Pineapple Bars
- Drain Pineapple Well: Excess moisture can make the filling soggy; press crushed pineapple with paper towels before folding it in.
- Use Cold Butter for Crust: Keeping butter cold creates a flaky, tender crust that holds up perfectly under the creamy filling.
- Don’t Overbake Filling: The center should still jiggle slightly when done to keep the bars creamy, not dry or cracked.
- Toast Coconut Carefully: Stir constantly and watch closely to avoid burning; toasted coconut adds wonderful texture and flavor contrast.
- Cool Completely Before Cutting: This helps the bars set firmly and prevents them from falling apart when sliced.
How to Store and Freeze Coconut Cream Pineapple Bars
Room Temperature: Store leftover Coconut Cream Pineapple Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Keep them cool and away from direct sunlight to maintain their freshness.
Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate the bars in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This helps preserve their creamy texture while enhancing the tropical flavors even more.
Freezer: If you want to enjoy these bars later, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw bars in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours before enjoying. You can also serve them cold for a refreshing treat!
Coconut Cream Pineapple Bars Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and transform these bars into your own tropical masterpiece!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a delightful gluten-free version.
- Vegan: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tbsp plus 2.5 tbsp water per egg) and use coconut yogurt instead of sweetened condensed milk.
- Add Spice: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the filling for a warm, comforting twist that enhances the tropical flavors.
- Fruity Boost: Mix in other crushed fruits like mango or banana if you seek a flavor adventure bursting with summer vibes!
- Coconut Milk: Use coconut milk instead of cream for a lighter flavor profile while still enjoying the signature coconut taste.
- Nut Crust: For extra crunch, swap in finely crushed nuts (like pecans or macadamias) into the crust mixture instead of just flour.
- Decadent Swirl: Create a swirl effect by gently folding in a few tablespoons of melted dark chocolate into the filling, for an indulgent chocolate-coconut combo.
- Citrus Zing: Add a tablespoon of lime juice and zest to the filling for a bright, zesty kick that perfectly complements the tropical sweetness.
What to Serve with Coconut Cream Pineapple Bars?
Elevate your dessert experience with perfect pairings that complement the tropical sweetness of these delightful bars.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of tropical fruits enhances the bar’s flavors while adding a refreshing crunch. The vibrant combination will awaken your senses.
- Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and airy, this topping mirrors the creamy texture of the bars while introducing an extra layer of coconut flavor. It’s like sunshine in each spoonful.
- Key Lime Pie Ice Cream: The tartness of key lime ice cream contrasts beautifully with the sweet coconut and pineapple, balancing flavors in every bite. An ideal cool companion on warm days.
- Sparkling Lemonade: The effervescence and citrus zing create a refreshing sip that cuts through the richness, making it a delightful drink choice to accompany these tropical treats.
- Macadamia Nut Cookies: Chewy cookies provide a satisfying texture and nutty flavor that complements the bars nicely, enhancing the tropics theme on your dessert platter.
- Pineapple Mimosa: This light and bubbly cocktail with a hint of orange juice pairs beautifully, bringing out the sweetness of the coconut cream pineapple bars in a festive way.
Coconut Cream Pineapple Bars Recipe FAQs
How do I know if the pineapple is ripe enough for Coconut Cream Pineapple Bars?
Choose crushed pineapple that is bright yellow with a fresh, sweet aroma. Avoid cans with dark spots or overly watery juice, as they can make the filling soggy. If using fresh pineapple, look for firm fruit with a sweet scent and cut it finely before draining very well.
What’s the best way to store Coconut Cream Pineapple Bars to keep them fresh?
I recommend storing these bars in an airtight container in the fridge, where they stay creamy and flavorful for up to 5 days. If left out at room temperature, consume within 2 days and keep them covered to prevent drying out and absorbing other odors.
Can I freeze Coconut Cream Pineapple Bars, and how should I do it?
Absolutely! Freeze these bars to enjoy later by first cooling them completely. Then, cut into bars, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, and place them all in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They’ll keep their best quality for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and serve cold or at room temperature.
What if my bars turn out soggy or too wet—how can I fix that?
Sogginess usually comes from excess moisture, especially in the pineapple. Next time, drain the pineapple thoroughly by pressing it on paper towels before folding it into the filling. Also, avoid overbaking; the center should jiggle slightly to remain creamy, but if it looks wet, add a few minutes more baking time, keeping a close eye.
Is this recipe safe for pets or people with common allergies?
These bars contain eggs, dairy (from butter and condensed milk), and coconut, which are common allergens and not suitable for pets. If you have dietary restrictions, consider egg substitutes or coconut-free alternatives, but the tropical flavors and creamy texture might change. Always consult dietary needs before serving!
Best Creamy Coconut Cream Pineapple Bars to Brighten Your Day
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F and line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy bar removal.
- Stir sifted flour, granulated sugar, and salt in a bowl until evenly blended.
- Add cold, cubed unsalted butter to the dry mix, then use a pastry cutter to work it into pea-size crumbs.
- Press the buttery crumbs firmly into the pan’s bottom. Bake at 350°F until edges turn golden brown, about 15 minutes.
- In a clean bowl, whisk together coconut cream, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until silky smooth.
- Gently fold in the well-drained crushed pineapple.
- Pour the filling over the warm crust and bake at 350°F until the edges are set and the center jiggles slightly, about 20–25 minutes.
- In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast shredded coconut until lightly golden and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes.
- Let bars cool completely in the pan, then lift out using the parchment overhang. Dust with powdered sugar and sprinkle with toasted coconut.
