Pineapple Bliss Bars Recipe

Pineapple Bliss Bars have become a staple in our household, and for good reason. From the first time I pulled a tray of these golden squares from the oven, filling the kitchen with the sweet, tropical aroma of pineapple and buttery graham crackers, I knew we had a winner. My family, especially my notoriously picky teenagers, devoured them within hours. They’re the perfect balance of tangy pineapple, rich cream cheese frosting, and a satisfyingly crunchy base. Whether it’s a potluck, a summer barbecue, or just a Tuesday afternoon treat, these bars are always a crowd-pleaser and bring a little bit of sunshine to any day. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a regular request in your kitchen too!

Ingredients

To create these delightful Pineapple Bliss Bars, you’ll need a handful of pantry staples and, of course, the star of the show – pineapple! Using quality ingredients will significantly impact the final flavor and texture of your bars, so let’s break down what you’ll need for both the crust and the filling:

For the Graham Cracker Crust:

• Graham Cracker Crumbs: 1 ½ cups. This forms the foundation of our bars, providing a delicious buttery and slightly sweet base. You can purchase pre-made graham cracker crumbs for convenience, or easily crush whole graham crackers yourself. For the freshest flavor, crushing them yourself right before baking is recommended.
• Unsalted Butter: ½ cup (1 stick), melted. Butter binds the graham cracker crumbs together, adds richness, and helps create a crisp and golden crust. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of the recipe. Make sure it’s completely melted for even distribution and binding.
• Granulated Sugar: ¼ cup. A touch of sugar enhances the sweetness of the crust and helps it caramelize slightly in the oven, adding depth of flavor and a pleasant texture.

For the Pineapple Filling:

• Cream Cheese: 8 ounces, softened. Full-fat cream cheese is key for that rich, creamy, and tangy filling that perfectly complements the pineapple. Ensure your cream cheese is properly softened to room temperature. This is crucial for a smooth, lump-free filling. If it’s too cold, it will be difficult to mix and can result in a grainy texture.
• Granulated Sugar: 1 cup. Sugar sweetens the filling and balances the tanginess of the cream cheese and pineapple. The amount of sugar can be adjusted slightly depending on your preference for sweetness and the sweetness of your pineapple.
• Eggs: 2 large. Eggs act as a binder and add richness and structure to the filling. They help the filling set properly and create a cohesive texture. Use large eggs for consistent results.
• Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon. Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile, adding warmth and depth to the filling. Use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor, avoiding imitation vanilla if possible.
• Crushed Pineapple: 20 ounces, canned in juice, well-drained. The star ingredient! Canned crushed pineapple in juice is perfect for this recipe because it’s readily available, consistently sweet, and the crushed texture distributes evenly throughout the filling. Crucially, ensure you drain the pineapple very well. Excess liquid will make the filling watery and prevent the bars from setting properly. Press the pineapple against a fine-mesh sieve to remove as much juice as possible.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• Cream Cheese: 4 ounces, softened. More cream cheese! This time, it’s for the decadent frosting that takes these bars to the next level. Again, ensure it’s softened for a smooth and creamy frosting.
• Unsalted Butter: ¼ cup (½ stick), softened. Butter adds richness and helps create a spreadable consistency for the frosting. Softened butter is essential for a smooth frosting.
• Powdered Sugar: 2 cups, sifted. Powdered sugar (also known as confectioners’ sugar or icing sugar) provides sweetness and structure to the frosting. Sifting the powdered sugar is important to remove any lumps and ensure a silky smooth frosting.
• Vanilla Extract: ½ teaspoon. A touch of vanilla enhances the frosting’s flavor and complements the pineapple and cream cheese.

Instructions

Let’s walk through the step-by-step process of making these irresistible Pineapple Bliss Bars. Follow these instructions carefully for baking success and get ready to enjoy a truly blissful treat!

Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. Alternatively, you can line the pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. This will make it incredibly easy to lift the bars out of the pan once they are cooled and set. The parchment paper method is highly recommended for clean removal and easy cleanup.
2. Combine Crust Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted unsalted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix thoroughly until all the crumbs are evenly moistened and the mixture resembles wet sand. This ensures the crust will hold together nicely.
3. Press Crust into Pan: Press the graham cracker mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Use the bottom of a measuring cup or a flat-bottomed glass to firmly and evenly press the crumbs into the pan. This creates a compact and even crust that will be sturdy enough to hold the filling. Ensure the crust is pressed firmly into the corners and along the edges of the pan.
4. Pre-bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until it is lightly golden brown and fragrant. Pre-baking the crust helps it set and become slightly crisp, preventing it from becoming soggy when the filling is added. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning. Once baked, remove the crust from the oven and let it cool slightly while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Make the Pineapple Filling

1. Cream Together Cream Cheese and Sugar: In a large bowl, using an electric mixer (hand mixer or stand mixer), beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is evenly incorporated. Creaming the cream cheese and sugar together well is essential for a smooth and lump-free filling.
2. Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until fully incorporated. Then, stir in the vanilla extract. Mixing eggs one at a time ensures they are properly emulsified into the cream cheese mixture, contributing to a smooth and stable filling.
3. Fold in Drained Pineapple: Gently fold in the well-drained crushed pineapple into the cream cheese mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix at this stage, as overmixing can develop gluten in the cream cheese mixture (although minimal, it’s good practice) and lead to a less tender texture. Ensure the pineapple is evenly distributed throughout the filling.

Step 3: Bake the Pineapple Bars

1. Pour Filling over Crust: Pour the pineapple filling evenly over the pre-baked graham cracker crust. Spread it out gently with a spatula to ensure it reaches all corners of the pan and is level.
2. Bake Until Set: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges are lightly golden brown. The center should be just slightly jiggly but not liquid. To check for doneness, gently shake the pan – the edges should be set, and the center should have a slight jiggle. If it’s still very liquidy, bake for a few more minutes. However, be careful not to overbake, as this can make the filling dry and crumbly.
3. Cool Completely: Remove the bars from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Allowing the bars to cool completely is crucial for them to set properly and for the frosting to adhere well. Cooling can take several hours at room temperature, or you can speed up the process by refrigerating them.

Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. Cream Together Cream Cheese and Butter: While the bars are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese and softened unsalted butter together until smooth and creamy. Again, ensure both cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature for a smooth frosting.
2. Gradually Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating on low speed until incorporated after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract. Adding powdered sugar gradually prevents it from puffing up in a cloud and makes it easier to incorporate smoothly. Beat until the frosting is light and fluffy. Be careful not to overbeat the frosting, as this can make it too thin.

Step 5: Frost and Chill

1. Frost the Cooled Bars: Once the pineapple bars are completely cooled, frost them evenly with the cream cheese frosting. Use a spatula or knife to spread the frosting in a smooth, even layer over the top of the bars.
2. Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the frosted bars for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow them to chill completely and for the frosting to set. Chilling makes the bars easier to cut and serve, and it also enhances the flavor and texture. Chilling also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
3. Cut and Serve: Once chilled, cut the Pineapple Bliss Bars into squares or rectangles and serve. For clean cuts, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts, especially if the frosting is soft.

Nutrition Facts

(Please note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes.)

Serving Size: Approximately 1 bar (assuming 16 bars are cut from a 9×13 inch pan)

Calories per Serving (estimated): 250-300 calories

Approximate Breakdown (per serving):

• Fat: 15-20g (primarily from cream cheese and butter)
• Saturated Fat: 9-12g
• Cholesterol: 50-70mg
• Sodium: 100-150mg
• Carbohydrates: 30-35g (primarily from sugar and graham crackers)
• Sugar: 20-25g
• Protein: 3-4g

These Pineapple Bliss Bars are a delicious treat, but like most desserts, they are best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 30 minutes (includes crust preparation, filling mixing, and frosting making)
• Cook Time: 38-45 minutes (8-10 minutes for crust pre-baking, 30-35 minutes for bars baking)
• Cooling/Chilling Time: Minimum 2 hours (ideally overnight)
• Total Time (excluding chilling): Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes
• Total Time (including chilling): Minimum 3 hours 15 minutes (or overnight)

While the active preparation and baking time is relatively short, remember to factor in the crucial cooling and chilling time for the best results. These bars are perfect for making ahead of time!

How to Serve

Pineapple Bliss Bars are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways, making them perfect for any occasion. Here are some delightful serving suggestions:

• Classic Dessert: Serve chilled bars as is, cut into squares or rectangles. Their refreshing flavor and creamy frosting make them a perfect stand-alone dessert after any meal.
• With a Dollop of Whipped Cream: A simple dollop of freshly whipped cream or even a store-bought whipped topping adds an extra layer of creamy indulgence and visual appeal.
• Alongside Fresh Fruit: Pair the bars with fresh fruit like sliced strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, or extra pineapple chunks. The fruit provides a contrasting freshness and enhances the tropical flavors.
• With a Scoop of Ice Cream: For an even more decadent treat, serve a warm bar (slightly warmed in the microwave for a few seconds) with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, coconut ice cream, or even pineapple sorbet. The combination of warm bars and cold ice cream is heavenly.
• As a Potluck or Party Treat: These bars are ideal for potlucks, picnics, barbecues, and parties. They are easy to transport, hold up well at room temperature for a reasonable amount of time (though chilling is always best), and are always a crowd-pleaser.
• Elevated Presentation: For a more elegant presentation, dust the frosted bars with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or finely shredded coconut before serving. You can also drizzle a little caramel sauce or pineapple syrup for extra flair.
• With Coffee or Tea: Enjoy a bar alongside a cup of hot coffee or iced tea for a delightful afternoon snack or a sweet ending to a meal. The sweetness of the bars pairs beautifully with the slight bitterness of coffee or tea.

Additional Tips for Perfect Pineapple Bliss Bars

To ensure your Pineapple Bliss Bars are absolutely blissful every time, here are five essential tips:

1. Drain the Pineapple Thoroughly: This cannot be stressed enough! Excess liquid from the pineapple is the enemy of a well-set filling. Use a fine-mesh sieve and press down on the pineapple to extract as much juice as possible. You can even gently pat it dry with paper towels for extra assurance. This step prevents a soggy filling and ensures the bars bake properly.
2. Soften Cream Cheese and Butter Properly: Softened cream cheese and butter are crucial for both the filling and the frosting. If they are too cold, they will not cream together smoothly, resulting in lumps and an uneven texture. Allow them to sit at room temperature for at least 30-60 minutes before starting. Don’t microwave them to soften, as this can change their texture.
3. Don’t Overbake the Bars: Overbaking can make the filling dry and crumbly. Bake the bars just until the filling is set and the edges are lightly golden brown. The center should still have a slight jiggle. They will continue to set as they cool. It’s better to slightly underbake than overbake.
4. Chill Completely Before Frosting and Cutting: Patience is key! Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before frosting. Frosting warm bars will cause the frosting to melt and become runny. Furthermore, chilling the frosted bars for at least 2 hours (or preferably overnight) is essential for them to set properly, making them easier to cut into clean squares and enhancing their flavor and texture.
5. Use Parchment Paper for Easy Removal: Lining your baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides, is a game-changer. It makes lifting the bars out of the pan effortless and ensures clean edges. No more struggling to get the first bar out! This is especially helpful when you want to cut neat squares.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some common questions you might have when making Pineapple Bliss Bars:

Q1: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

A1: While canned crushed pineapple is recommended for consistency and convenience in this recipe, you can use fresh pineapple. However, you’ll need to properly prepare it. Peel, core, and finely dice fresh pineapple. Then, sauté it in a pan over medium heat until some of the excess moisture evaporates and it slightly softens. Allow it to cool completely and then drain it very well before using it in the recipe. Canned pineapple is often sweeter and softer, which contributes to the desired texture of these bars, so canned is generally preferred for this recipe.

Q2: Can I make these bars ahead of time?

A2: Absolutely! Pineapple Bliss Bars are fantastic for making ahead of time. In fact, they are even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld together. You can bake the bars, frost them, and then store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They are perfect for preparing in advance for parties or gatherings.

Q3: Can I freeze Pineapple Bliss Bars?

A3: Yes, you can freeze these bars! For best results, freeze them before frosting. Bake the bars, let them cool completely, and then cut them into squares. Wrap each square individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When ready to serve, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and then frost them. Alternatively, you can freeze the entire un-frosted slab of bars, tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw overnight and then frost and cut. Frosting can sometimes change texture slightly after freezing and thawing, so frosting after thawing is generally recommended for optimal quality.

Q4: Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?

A4: You can slightly reduce the sugar in both the filling and the frosting if you prefer a less sweet bar. You could reduce the granulated sugar in the filling by up to ¼ cup and the powdered sugar in the frosting by up to ½ cup. However, keep in mind that sugar not only adds sweetness but also contributes to the texture and structure of both the filling and the frosting. Drastically reducing sugar may affect the final outcome.

Q5: My frosting is too thin. How can I fix it?

A5: If your cream cheese frosting is too thin, there are a few things you can try. First, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Sometimes, just chilling will thicken it up. If it’s still too thin, you can add more sifted powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time, beating well after each addition until you reach your desired consistency. Be careful not to add too much powdered sugar, as this can make the frosting overly sweet and stiff. Another cause of thin frosting could be using cream cheese or butter that was too warm or melted. Make sure your ingredients are softened but still cool to the touch.

Print