Pineapple Cream Cheese Dessert Bars

Pineapple Cream Cheese Dessert Bars

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These Pineapple Cream Cheese Dessert Bars are a tropical treat that blends the creamy richness of cream cheese with the bright, sweet tang of pineapple. Perfect for any occasion, these bars are both refreshing and indulgent, with a buttery crust and a luscious, silky topping. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, they’re a surefire hit at any gathering.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 1/4 tsp salt

For the Filling:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
  • 1 tbsp all-purpose flour

For the Topping (optional):

  • ¼ cup shredded coconut
  • 2 tbsp chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts, pecans)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving a bit of an overhang for easy removal.
  2. Prepare the Crust:
    • In a medium bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
    • Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
  3. Make the Filling:
    • In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
    • Add the egg and vanilla extract, beating until fully incorporated.
    • Gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple and flour until evenly mixed.
  4. Assemble and Bake:
    • Pour the cream cheese filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.
    • If using, sprinkle the shredded coconut and chopped nuts on top of the filling.
    • Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is lightly golden.
  5. Cool and Serve:
    • Allow the dessert bars to cool completely in the baking dish on a wire rack.
    • Once cooled, use the parchment paper to lift the bars out of the dish. Cut into squares and serve.

Enjoy these delicious Pineapple Cream Cheese Dessert Bars as a sweet and tangy end to any meal or as a delightful treat for your next gathering!

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