Imagine biting into a golden, buttery bar filled with the sweet-tart tang of juicy pineapple and a hint of warm vanilla. Pineapple Bliss Bars are more than just dessert—they’re an experience! These bars combine bold flavors, irresistible textures, and a touch of tropical magic that will transport your taste buds to paradise.
The first time I made them, my kitchen was transformed into a fragrant haven as the aroma of caramelized sugar mingled with fresh pineapple. It was love at first bite.
What makes these bars unique is their perfect balance—soft, chewy centers wrapped in crisp shortbread layers, all topped with a glistening glaze.
Whether you’re serving them at a summer picnic or gifting them during the holidays, they’re sure to impress. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile! Swap out coconut flakes for almonds if you prefer crunch, or add a splash of rum to the filling for a grown-up twist.
Pair them with a cup of coffee for breakfast or serve them alongside ice cream for dessert—it’s up to you!
If you’ve never tried making Pineapple Bliss Bars before, now’s the time. Trust me, once you do, this recipe will become a staple in your repertoire. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into this easy, crowd-pleasing treat!
Overview of the Recipe
Pineapple Bliss Bars have roots in classic fruit-filled desserts but bring a modern, tropical flair. They’re inspired by traditional shortbread recipes combined with the vibrant flavor profile of Southeast Asian cuisine.
This fusion creates a delightful harmony between rich, buttery dough and zesty pineapple jam.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Total Time: 45 mins
- Servings: 12 bars
- Dietary Tags: Vegetarian
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s something truly magical about Pineapple Bliss Bars. First, they’re ridiculously easy to make—even if you’re not a seasoned baker. With simple pantry staples and canned pineapple (or homemade jam), you can whip these up on a whim. Second, they cater to everyone’s cravings: sweet, tangy, creamy, and crunchy all rolled into one heavenly bite.
But what sets this recipe apart is its adaptability. Want to go vegan? Swap butter for plant-based alternatives.
Craving extra indulgence? Drizzle dark chocolate over the top. Each variation feels like a new adventure while maintaining the core charm of the original. And when guests take their first bite, they won’t believe how effortlessly you created such a showstopper.
Let’s get baking—you won’t regret it!
Ingredients List for Pineapple Bliss Bars
- For the Shortbread Base:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (226g)
- ½ cup granulated sugar (100g)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (250g)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- For the Pineapple Filling:
- 1 can crushed pineapple, drained (8 oz / 227g)
- ¼ cup brown sugar, packed (50g)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the Glaze (Optional):
- 1 cup powdered sugar (120g)
- 2 tablespoons milk (almond milk works too!)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Add-ins: Toasted shredded coconut, chopped macadamia nuts, or a sprinkle of sea salt for garnish.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Pineapple Bliss Bars
- Prepare the Shortbread Base:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually mix in the flour and salt until a crumbly dough forms.
- Pro Tip: Don’t overwork the dough—it should resemble coarse crumbs before pressing into the pan.
- Press two-thirds of the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Reserve the remaining dough for topping.
- Make the Pineapple Filling:
- In a small saucepan, combine the drained crushed pineapple, brown sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and becomes jam-like (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Visual Cue: The filling is ready when it coats the back of a spoon without dripping excessively.
- Assemble the Bars:
- Spread the cooled pineapple filling evenly over the shortbread base. Crumble the reserved dough on top for a rustic, textured finish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the topping is lightly toasted.
- Add the Glaze (Optional):
- While the bars cool, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to create a smooth glaze. Drizzle it over the cooled bars using a fork or piping bag for precision.
Serving Suggestions and Pairing Ideas
Serve Pineapple Bliss Bars as a standalone treat or elevate them with creative pairings:
- Pair with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
- Garnish with toasted coconut flakes or chopped nuts for added texture and presentation flair.
- For brunch, serve alongside a fruity mimosa or tropical smoothie.
Garnish Tip: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of the glaze for a sophisticated sweet-salty contrast.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Storage: Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. Freeze wrapped portions for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: If chilled, let sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving. For frozen bars, thaw overnight in the fridge or microwave briefly (10-15 seconds) for a quick refresh.
Variations and Substitutions
- Alternative Ingredients: Swap crushed pineapple for mango or apricot preserves for a different fruity twist.
- Dietary Adjustments: Use plant-based butter and almond milk for a vegan version. Substitute gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
- Texture Variations: Add shredded coconut or chopped macadamia nuts to the filling for added crunch.
Nutritional Info
Per Serving (1 bar):
- Calories: ~200 kcal
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 8g
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Conclusion
Pineapple Bliss Bars are the ultimate tropical dessert that’s equal parts easy to make and utterly irresistible. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself, these bars are guaranteed to bring smiles and satisfaction. Try this recipe today—you won’t regret it!
We’d love to hear how yours turned out. Rate the recipe, leave a comment, or share photos of your creations on social media using #PineappleBlissBars!
FAQs
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes! Simply chop fresh pineapple finely and cook it down with a bit of sugar until soft and jam-like.
Do I have to add the glaze?
No, the bars are delicious without it. However, the glaze adds a touch of sweetness and elegance.
Can I freeze these bars?
Absolutely! Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
How do I prevent the shortbread base from being too crumbly?
Make sure the butter is softened but not melted. Also, press the dough firmly into the pan for even layers.
What can I substitute for cornstarch in the filling?
You can use arrowroot powder or tapioca starch as a 1:1 replacement.
Are these bars kid-friendly?
Definitely! Kids love the sweet-tart flavor combo, and they’re fun to decorate with colorful sprinkles or coconut flakes.
