Pineapple Bliss Bars are a delightful tropical treat that combines a buttery graham cracker crust with a creamy pineapple filling, all topped off with toasted coconut for a bit of crunch.
These bars are refreshing and light, making them a perfect dessert for warm weather or anytime you’re craving a taste of the tropics. The combination of sweet pineapple, creamy filling, and crunchy coconut is sure to transport you to a tropical paradise with every bite.
These Pineapple Bliss Bars are a perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and crunchy elements that make them irresistible. They’re ideal for picnics, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to serve a dessert that’s both delicious and visually appealing. Enjoy!
Here’s how to make these Tropical and Tangy Pineapple Bliss Bars with a Creamy Topping:
Pineapple Bliss Bars
Ingredients:
For the crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
For the filling:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 (8 oz) container Cool Whip, thawed
For the topping:
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut, toasted
- Maraschino cherries for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to ensure easy removal of the bars.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar until well combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form an even crust.
- Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden and set.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool completely before adding the filling.
- Make the Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Fold in the drained crushed pineapple until it’s evenly combined with the cream cheese mixture. This adds a delightful fruity flavor and texture.
- Gently fold in the thawed Cool Whip, mixing until the filling is light and fluffy. This gives the bars their creamy, airy texture.
- Assemble the Bars:
- Spread the pineapple filling evenly over the cooled graham cracker crust, ensuring it reaches all the edges.
- Sprinkle the toasted coconut evenly over the top of the filling. The toasted coconut adds a lovely crunch and a rich, nutty flavor that complements the pineapple perfectly.
- Chill and Set:
- Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours, or until they are fully set and firm. This step is crucial for easy slicing and serving.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Before serving, optionally garnish the bars with maraschino cherries for a pop of color and extra sweetness.
- Slice the chilled bars into squares or rectangles and serve.
