Description

These Tropical Paradise Pineapple Bliss Bars are a delightful tropical dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a creamy pineapple filling blended with sweetened condensed milk, coconut, and optional white chocolate chips. Perfectly balanced with a rich yet refreshing flavor, these bars are baked to a soft, creamy set and chilled to perfection for a sweet summer treat.

Ingredients

Crust

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons granulated sugar

Filling

8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
1 cup crushed pineapple, well drained
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup shredded sweetened coconut
1/4 cup white chocolate chips (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted unsalted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix thoroughly until all crumbs are well coated with butter and the mixture resembles wet sand.
Form and Bake Crust: Press the crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of an 8×8-inch baking dish to create the crust layer. Bake for 8 minutes, then remove the crust from the oven and allow it to cool slightly.
Prepare Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy using a hand mixer or whisk. Add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract; continue mixing until fully combined and creamy.
Add Pineapple Mixture: Gently fold in the well-drained crushed pineapple, shredded sweetened coconut, and white chocolate chips if using, ensuring ingredients are evenly distributed without deflating the mixture.
Assemble and Bake: Spread the filling evenly over the slightly cooled crust. Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the center is just set and no longer jiggly.
Cool and Chill: Remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the bars set firmly before slicing into 9 squares and serving.

Notes

Be sure to drain the pineapple very well to prevent the filling from becoming soggy.
These bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and are best served chilled for optimal texture and flavor.
For a nutty twist, consider sprinkling chopped macadamia nuts or pecans on top before baking.
If you prefer a dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk with suitable vegan alternatives.