Pineapple Cake Bars – Easy Tropical Dessert Recipe

Pineapple Cake Bars have always been my little slice of sunshine on a cloudy day. I still remember the afternoon I baked them for the first time — the sweet scent of pineapple filled the air, mingling with the buttery aroma of the golden crust as it crisped in the oven. I’ve always had a soft spot for desserts that balance sweet and tangy, so I added my own twist: a silky coconut icing that melts into the warm bars, giving each bite a tropical hug. The tender crumb, juicy pineapple filling, and subtle crunch on top make these the best pineapple dessert for gatherings, coffee breaks, or potlucks. They’re easy to make, yet taste like something from a bakery display. If you love tropical flavors and no-fuss baking, these Pineapple Cake will win you over in the first bite. Let’s get baking!

What Makes This Pineapple Cake So Irresistible

• Perfect for Any Occasion – From family gatherings to holiday trays.

• Tropical & Comforting – A buttery crust meets sweet pineapple.

• Beginner-Friendly – Simple steps, no fancy equipment needed.

• Make-Ahead Magic – Stays fresh and delicious for days.

• Customizable – Easy gluten-free and lighter alternatives.

Ingredients for Pineapple Cake Bars

For the Crust & Topping:

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• ¼ cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)

• ½ cup chilled butter, cubed

• ½ cup sugar

For the Filling:

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 2 large eggs

• ¼ cup all-purpose flour

• 1 cup sugar

• 16 oz crushed pineapple, well-drained

• ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a tangier twist)

For the Icing:

• 1 teaspoon coconut extract

• 1 cup powdered sugar

How to Make Pineapple Cake Bars – Step by Step

Step 1 – Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.

3. Cut in the chilled butter until the mixture resembles fine crumbs.

4. Reserve 1 cup of this mixture for the topping. Press the rest evenly into the prepared baking dish.

5. Bake for 15 minutes or until lightly golden.

Step 2 – Make the Filling

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, flour, salt, sour cream, and crushed pineapple until smooth.

2. Pour the filling over the baked crust, spreading evenly.

Step 3 – Add the Topping

1. Sprinkle the reserved crust mixture over the filling.

2. Bake for 60 minutes or until the top is golden and set.

Step 4 – Complete with Icing

1. Let bars cool for 10–15 minutes.

2. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and coconut extract until smooth.

3. Drizzle over cooled bars.

4. Slice into squares and serve.

Pro Tips for the Best Pineapple Cake Bars

• Drain Pineapple Well – Too much liquid can make the filling soggy.

• Chill Before Cutting – Easier slices and cleaner edges.

• Extra Crunch? – Add chopped nuts or toasted coconut on top before baking.

• Make It Lighter – Swap sour cream for plain Greek yogurt.

• Gluten-Free Friendly – Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Best Ways to Serve Pineapple Cake Bars

• With fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

• Alongside tropical cocktails like piña coladas.

• As part of a dessert platter with brownies and lemon bars.

• Chilled for summer, warm for winter — they’re delicious either way!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

(Based on 16 bars)

• Calories: 210 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 28g

• Protein: 2g

• Fat: 10g

• Sugar: 17g

Storage & Leftovers

• Room Temperature: Up to 2 days in an airtight container.

• Refrigerator: Up to 5 days.

• Freezer: Wrap individually and store for up to 3 months.

• Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or enjoy cold.

FAQs – Pineapple Cake

Q: Can I make Pineapple Cake Bars ahead of time?
A: Yes! They actually taste better the next day as the flavors develop.

Q: What’s the secret to a perfect crust?
A: Use cold butter and don’t overmix to keep it tender and crumbly.

Q: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
A: Absolutely! Just chop finely and drain excess juice.

More Tasty Ideas to Explore

• Peach Cobbler Recipe – Easy Summer Dessert Idea

• Decadent Zucchini Cake Bars – Easy Dessert Recipe

Savor the Ending

There you have it — the best homemade Pineapple Cake Bars you’ll ever try. Buttery, sweet, tangy, and kissed with coconut, they’re a dessert that brings a little sunshine to any day. So preheat that oven, grab your mixing bowls, and get ready to impress your family, friends, and maybe even yourself.

Have you tried this recipe? Drop a comment, rate it, or share your favorite twist!
And if you loved it, don’t forget to share with friends or save it to Pinterest.

Pineapple Cake Bars – Easy Tropical Dessert Recipe

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• Author: Jannet Lisa
• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
• Yield: 16 bars 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Soft, buttery Pineapple Cake Bars with a sweet-tart pineapple filling, golden crust, and tropical coconut icing — perfect for gatherings or a simple treat.

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Ingredients

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• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
• 1/2 cup chilled butter, cubed
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 16 oz crushed pineapple, well-drained
• 1/2 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
• 1 teaspoon coconut extract
• 1 cup powdered sugar

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in chilled butter until mixture resembles fine crumbs.
3. Reserve 1 cup of the crumb mixture for topping. Press remaining mixture evenly into prepared dish and bake for 15 minutes or until lightly golden.
4. In another bowl, whisk eggs, sugar, flour, salt, sour cream, and crushed pineapple until smooth.
5. Spread filling evenly over the baked crust.
6. Sprinkle reserved crumb mixture over the filling.
7. Bake for 60 minutes or until the topping is golden and set.
8. Allow to cool for 10–15 minutes. Whisk powdered sugar and coconut extract until smooth and drizzle over bars.
9. Cut into squares and serve.

Equipment

2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch

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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold

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Notes

• Drain pineapple thoroughly to prevent a soggy filling.
• Chill bars before slicing for cleaner edges.
• Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
• Use a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
• Top with toasted coconut or chopped nuts for added texture.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 17g
• Sodium: 120mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 35mg