Easy Pineapple Cake Bars: A Tropical Dessert for Any Occasion
These pineapple cake bars are a delightful tropical treat that combines the sweet, tangy flavor of pineapple with a soft, buttery cake base. Perfect for potlucks, parties, or a simple dessert at home, this recipe is easy to make and requires just a handful of ingredients. With their golden crust and juicy pineapple topping, these bars are as visually appealing as they are delicious. Let’s dive into this simple yet irresistible recipe!
Prep Time:
20 minutes
Cook Time:
40 minutes
Calories:
Approximately 250 kcal per bar
ingredients
For the Cake Base:
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
For the Pineapple Topping:
1 can (20 ounces) crushed pineapple, undrained
½ cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons cornstarch
Directions——————
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and set aside.
Prepare the Cake Base: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
Spread the Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Make the Pineapple Topping: In a medium saucepan, combine the crushed pineapple (with its juice), sugar, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
Assemble the Bars: Pour the pineapple topping over the cake batter, spreading it evenly to cover the entire surface.
Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the cake layer comes out clean.
Cool and Serve: Allow the cake bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. Serve at room temperature or chilled.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple. Simply chop it finely and use about 2 cups of crushed pineapple. Add ½ cup of pineapple juice or water to replace the canned juice.
2. Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend contains a binding agent like xanthan gum for the best texture.
3. How should I store leftovers?
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
4. Can I add coconut to this recipe?
Yes! Sprinkle shredded coconut over the pineapple topping before baking for a tropical twist.
5. Can I use a different fruit topping?
Definitely! This recipe works well with other fruits like peaches, mangoes, or berries. Adjust the sugar and cornstarch quantities based on the fruit’s natural sweetness and juiciness.
Tools You'll Need
9×13-inch baking pan
Mixing bowls
Electric mixer or whisk
Medium saucepan
Spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Tips
Use room temperature ingredients for the cake base to ensure a smooth batter.
For a richer flavor, toast shredded coconut and sprinkle it on top before serving.
If you prefer a less sweet dessert, reduce the sugar in the pineapple topping by 1-2 tablespoons.
Let the bars cool completely before cutting to ensure clean, neat slices.
Allergy Information
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend.
Nut-Free: This recipe contains no nuts.
Egg-Free Option: Replace eggs with a flaxseed or chia seed egg substitute.
Conclusion
These pineapple cake bars are a perfect blend of simplicity and tropical flavor, making them an ideal dessert for any occasion. With their moist cake base and luscious pineapple topping, they’re sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, the recipe is so easy that even beginner bakers can achieve fantastic results.
We encourage you to try this recipe and experience the joy of baking these delightful bars. Don’t forget to share your creations and any creative twists you’ve added—we’d love to hear how you made this recipe your own! Happy baking!
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