Bright, creamy, and bursting with sunshine flavor, these Pineapple Bliss Bars are the tropical dessert you didn’t know you needed. A buttery shortbread crust is topped with a luscious pineapple-infused cream cheese layer, then baked to golden perfection. Light yet indulgent, they’re the perfect treat for spring, summer, or anytime you crave a little island escape.
They’re easy to make, big on flavor, and ideal for potlucks, barbecues, or keeping chilled in your fridge for an anytime sweet bite.
🛒 Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the pineapple filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, well-drained
- ¼ cup pineapple juice (from the can or fresh)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Optional topping:
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Toasted coconut flakes or chopped macadamia nuts for garnish
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and prep
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step 2: Make the crust
- In a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add flour and salt; mix until crumbly and fully combined.
- Press evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until lightly golden. Let cool slightly while preparing filling.
Step 3: Make the pineapple filling
- In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar, eggs, vanilla, pineapple juice, and cornstarch. Mix until well combined.
- Fold in the drained crushed pineapple.
Step 4: Bake the bars
- Pour the pineapple mixture over the cooled crust and spread evenly.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are slightly golden.
- Let cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours before slicing.
Step 5: Finish and serve
Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with toasted coconut flakes or nuts if desired. Slice into bars and enjoy chilled or at room temperature.
🍽 Nutrition Information (per bar – makes 16)
- Calories: 260
- Fat: 15g
- Carbs: 29g
- Sugar: 18g
- Protein: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 120mg
Nutrition may vary depending on added toppings.
✅ Tips & Tricks
- Drain pineapple well: Too much moisture will prevent the filling from setting properly.
- Cool before slicing: Refrigeration helps the bars firm up for clean cuts.
- Make ahead: These bars taste even better the next day — great for planning ahead!
- Tropical twist: Add shredded coconut or lime zest to the filling for extra flavor.
- For extra decadence: Top with a cream cheese glaze or a white chocolate drizzle.
🍴 Serving Suggestions
Serve Pineapple Bliss Bars:
- As a light summer dessert
- At brunches, baby showers, or beach-themed parties
- With iced tea, piña coladas, or cold brew coffee
They’re also great on a dessert table next to lemon bars and cheesecake squares.
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