Coconut Pineapple Bites are a sweet treat that brings tropical vibes right to your kitchen! With yummy pineapple chunks coated in creamy coconut, they’re like mini vacations for your taste buds.
These bites are super easy to make. I like to keep them in the fridge for a refreshing snack, especially on hot days. Who can resist a burst of flavor with every bite? 🌴🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Coconut: Shredded coconut is a must for this recipe. You can use sweetened or unsweetened based on your taste preference. If you want a lighter option, try using coconut flour in smaller amounts.
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple provides great flavor, but if it’s not in season, canned pineapple works just as well. Make sure to drain it to avoid excess moisture.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: This adds richness but can be swapped with coconut cream or even a homemade creamy nut milk for a dairy-free version. Just make sure to add a bit of sweetener!
Toasted Coconut Flakes: These are fantastic for topping. If you can’t find them, try using chopped nuts for added crunch. Just toast them lightly for the best flavor.
How Do I Get the Perfect Bake for Coconut Pineapple Bites?
Getting the right texture for your Coconut Pineapple Bites involves careful attention to baking time. Preheat your oven properly to ensure even cooking. Baking for 25-30 minutes is key; you want the edges to turn slightly golden.
- Check for doneness: The center should be set, not overly soft or jiggly.
- Let the bites cool completely to firm up. This will make cutting them into squares much easier.
Patience is important here! Cutting them too soon can lead to messy squares.
Delicious Coconut Pineapple Bites Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Coconut Pineapple Mixture:
- 2 cups shredded coconut
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- ½ cup sugar
- 3 eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For Serving:
- Sweetened condensed milk, for drizzling
- Toasted coconut flakes, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. After baking, you’ll need to let the bites cool completely before serving, which can take about 30 minutes. So, in total, expect about 1 hour to enjoy these tasty treats!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, turn on your oven and preheat it to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the oven is nice and hot when you’re ready to bake your bites.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the shredded coconut, crushed pineapple, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir everything together until well mixed. The mixture should be sticky and slightly thick.
3. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Grease a baking dish (around 9×9 inches works great) with some cooking spray or butter. Pour the coconut pineapple mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula.
4. Bake the Mixture:
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the edges are slightly golden and the center is set. You can test this by gently shaking the dish; if it doesn’t jiggle, it’s ready!
5. Cool and Cut:
Once baked, carefully remove the dish from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature. This should take about 30 minutes. After it’s cool, use a sharp knife to cut the coconut pineapple mixture into bite-sized squares.
6. Drizzle and Garnish:
Right before serving, drizzle some sweetened condensed milk over the coconut pineapple bites. For a delightful finishing touch, sprinkle each square with toasted coconut flakes. It adds a lovely crunch!
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Your delicious Coconut Pineapple Bites are ready! Share them with friends and family, and enjoy every tasty bite!
Can I Use Fresh Pineapple Instead of Canned Pineapple?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple can add a delightful texture and flavor. Just make sure to finely chop it into small pieces to mimic the consistency of canned pineapple. You might also want to reduce the sugar a bit since fresh pineapple tends to be less sweet.
How to Store Leftover Coconut Pineapple Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Just place the bites in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge before serving!
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! You can substitute the sweetened condensed milk with a dairy-free version available at most grocery stores, or make your own using coconut milk and sugar. Just simmer the coconut milk and sugar together until it thickens.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Mixture?
Definitely! Feel free to add other ingredients like nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits to enhance the flavor and texture. Just keep in mind that this may change the overall consistency, so adjust the baking time as needed.
