Pineapple Cream Cheese Dessert Bars

Pineapple Cream Cheese Dessert Bars are a delicious treat that combines the tanginess of cream cheese with the tropical sweetness of pineapple, all nestled in a buttery crust. These bars are easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Here’s a simple recipe to make these delightful dessert bars:

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Cream Cheese Layer:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Pineapple Topping:

• 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For Garnish (optional):

• Shredded coconut
• Chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

1. Make the Crust:

• In a medium bowl, combine the flour, sugar, melted butter, and salt. Mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust.

1. Bake the Crust:

• Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside.

1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer:

• In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy.
• Add the egg and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until well combined and smooth.
• Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the pre-baked crust.

1. Prepare the Pineapple Topping:

• In a medium saucepan, combine the drained crushed pineapple, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice.
• Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and becomes translucent. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

1. Assemble and Bake:

• Spoon the pineapple topping evenly over the cream cheese layer.
• Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the cream cheese layer is set and the pineapple topping is bubbly.

1. Cool and Garnish:

• Allow the dessert bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
• Once cooled, you can optionally sprinkle with shredded coconut or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.

1. Slice and Serve:

• Cut into squares or bars and serve. These bars are delicious served chilled or at room temperature.

Tips for Success:

• Draining Pineapple: Make sure to drain the crushed pineapple thoroughly to avoid excess moisture which could make the bars soggy.
• Cooling: Let the bars cool completely before cutting to help them set and make slicing easier.
• Garnishing: If adding shredded coconut or nuts, do so after the bars have cooled to maintain their texture.

These Pineapple Cream Cheese Dessert Bars are a tropical delight with a creamy, tangy filling and a sweet, buttery crust. Enjoy these bars as a refreshing and satisfying treat!