These Coconut Pineapple Bites are a tropical treat! They are sweet, chewy, and packed with the amazing flavors of coconut and juicy pineapple. Perfect for a snack or a fun party treat!
I love making these bites when I want a little taste of vacation. They are super easy to whip up and great for sharing—or not! Who could resist sneaking an extra piece? 🍍🥥
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple gives a bright, juicy flavor. If fresh isn’t available, canned pineapple (in juice, not syrup) works too. Just drain and chop!
Coconut Milk: This gives a creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using light coconut milk or even almond milk, but it may change the flavor slightly.
Granulated Sugar: Standard white sugar is great for sweetness. You can substitute with coconut sugar for a more caramel-like flavor, or use honey or maple syrup for a natural option.
Shredded Coconut: Sweetened shredded coconut is used in the recipe, but you can use unsweetened if you prefer less sugar. If needed, substitute with crushed graham crackers for a different texture.
Flours: All-purpose flour is used here, but you can switch it out with gluten-free flour or oat flour if you’re avoiding gluten.
How Do I Get My Coconut Pineapple Bites to Set Properly?
Getting the right texture is essential for these bites. The key is to properly combine and heat your ingredients. Here’s how:
- Start on medium heat for the pineapple and coconut milk mixture to ensure even heating.
- Stir the sugar until it’s fully dissolved. This prevents any gritty texture!
- When mixing in cornstarch and flour, do it gradually while continuing to stir. This helps to avoid lumps.
- Once thickened, make sure to spread it evenly in the baking dish. An even layer helps with consistent cooking.
Allowing the bites to cool completely is crucial. This helps them firm up so you can cut them into nice squares easily. Enjoy your tropical treat!
How to Make Coconut Pineapple Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Coconut Pineapple Mixture:
- 2 cups fresh pineapple, diced
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
For the Batter:
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
For Garnish:
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup toasted shredded coconut (for garnish)
- Additional coconut milk (for drizzling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes for preparation and around 25-30 minutes for baking. After baking, remember to let the bites cool completely before cutting. Total time is about 1 hour if you include cooling.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is important so your Coconut Pineapple Bites bake evenly. Get your 8×8 inch baking dish ready too! Grease it with some cooking spray or butter so the bites don’t stick.
2. Cook the Pineapple Mixture:
In a medium saucepan, combine the diced pineapple, coconut milk, and granulated sugar. Place it over medium heat and stir gently. Keep stirring until the sugar has fully dissolved. You want a nice syrupy mixture that’s warm but not boiling.
3. Prepare the Batter:
In another bowl, mix the cornstarch, all-purpose flour, salt, and vanilla extract together. Once mixed well, slowly add this dry mixture to your warm pineapple-coconut mixture. Stir constantly as you add it, so it blends smoothly and thickens well.
4. Pour and Bake:
After your mixture is nice and thick, pour it into the greased baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula for an even finish. Pop it in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the edges are golden and the center is set. The smell will be heavenly!
5. Cool and Cut:
Once baked, remove the Coconut Pineapple Bites from the oven and let them cool completely in the baking dish on a wire rack. This step is key for firm bites. Once cool, cut them into bite-sized squares or rectangles.
6. Garnish and Serve:
To serve, drizzle some additional coconut milk over the bites and sprinkle with toasted shredded coconut for an extra treat. You can enjoy these chilled or at room temperature—either way, they are delightful tropical bites!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If you’re using canned pineapple, make sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the mixture. You’ll want to cut it into similar-sized pieces as you would fresh pineapple for even cooking.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
This recipe is already dairy-free since it uses coconut milk! However, if you want to enhance the flavor, you can opt for full-fat coconut milk for a creamier texture. Just make sure to check the label to ensure it’s free of additives.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover Coconut Pineapple Bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To serve, you can enjoy them chilled or let them come to room temperature before enjoying their tropical flavor.
Can I Freeze This Treat?
Yes, you can freeze them! Cut the bites into pieces and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze separately. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy!
