Pineapple coconut macadamia nut bars combine the sweet, tropical flavors of pineapple and coconut with the rich, buttery crunch of macadamia nuts. These bars are perfect for a tropical-themed party, a sweet treat to enjoy with your afternoon coffee, or a delicious snack to bring a taste of the tropics into your day. They are easy to make and pack a lot of flavor in every bite!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Filling:
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened, depending on your preference)
- 1/2 cup macadamia nuts, chopped
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal later.
- In a medium bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter pieces and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form the crust.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Filling:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
- Stir in the crushed pineapple, shredded coconut, and chopped macadamia nuts.
3. Assemble the Bars:
- Pour the filling mixture over the partially baked crust and spread it evenly with a spatula.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and lightly golden on top.
4. Cool and Cut:
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before cutting into squares. The bars will firm up as they cool.
5. Serve:
- Once cooled and cut, serve the bars at room temperature. They can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or refrigerated for longer shelf life.
Tips for Perfect Bars
- Drain Pineapple Well: Ensure the pineapple is well-drained to prevent excess moisture from making the bars soggy.
- Chop Nuts Coarsely: For the best texture, chop the macadamia nuts into coarse pieces. They should add a satisfying crunch without overpowering the other flavors.
- Cool Completely: Let the bars cool completely before cutting to ensure they set properly and don’t fall apart.
Serving Suggestions
Pineapple coconut macadamia nut bars are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways:
- Garnish: Dust with a bit of powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and a bit of milk for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Pairings: Serve with a side of fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a more indulgent treat.
- Beverages: They pair well with tropical cocktails like piña coladas, or simply enjoy them with a cup of tea or coffee.
Conclusion
Pineapple coconut macadamia nut bars are a tropical delight that brings together sweet pineapple, nutty macadamia nuts, and coconut in a beautifully textured bar. These treats are easy to make, deliciously satisfying, and perfect for any occasion where you want to add a touch of the tropics to your menu. Enjoy these bars as a special dessert or a delightful snack that’s sure to transport you to a sunny paradise with every bite!