Coconut Pineapple Bites are sweet and chewy little treats that bring a taste of the tropics to your snack time. With crunchy coconut and juicy pineapple, they are a delight!
These bites are super easy to make—just mix, roll, and enjoy! I can’t resist popping a few into my bag for a quick pick-me-up. Who doesn’t love a mini vacation in every bite? 🌴
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple is key for a juicy and tangy flavor. If fresh is not available, you can use canned pineapple in juice but make sure to drain it well. I love using ripe pineapple for its sweetness!
Coconut: Grated coconut enhances the texture and flavor. You can choose unsweetened for a more natural taste, or sweetened for extra sweetness. If you’re short on coconut, shredded almonds can be a nice alternative!
Granulated Sugar: This adds sweetness. For a healthier option, consider using honey or maple syrup. Just be careful with measurements, as they are sweeter than sugar. I often use coconut sugar for a subtle coconut flavor.
Coconut Milk: This ingredient gives a creamy texture. You can swap it with almond milk or any other plant-based milk, but the dish might lose some creaminess. I recommend using full-fat coconut milk for the best results!
Toasted Coconut Flakes: This serves as a beautiful garnish. You can make your own by toasting shredded coconut in a dry skillet until golden. If you can’t find them, crushed nuts like pistachios are a fun twist!
How Can I Ensure the Coconut Pineapple Bites Are Perfectly Baked?
Baking this dish requires some attention for the best textures. You want it to have a golden edge while staying moist in the center. Follow these steps:
- Set your oven to the right temperature; 350°F is perfect for even baking.
- Keep an eye on the edges. When they begin to turn golden and set firmly, it’s usually ready.
- Let it cool completely in the baking dish to help it firm up. Cutting too early may cause it to be gooey.
Remember, every oven is a bit different, so check a few minutes before the timer goes off to avoid overbaking. Enjoy making your Coconut Pineapple Bites!
How to Make Coconut Pineapple Bites?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Coconut Pineapple Mixture:
- 2 cups fresh pineapple, finely chopped
- 1 cup grated coconut (unsweetened or sweetened based on preference)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup toasted coconut flakes
- Extra coconut milk (for drizzling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25 to 30 minutes to bake. After baking, remember to let the Coconut Pineapple Bites cool completely before slicing, so set aside a little extra time for that. In total, you’ll need around 45 minutes to enjoy these sweet treats!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, lightly grease a small baking dish or a square pan with some cooking spray or oil. This will help prevent the bites from sticking!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, combine the finely chopped pineapple, grated coconut, granulated sugar, coconut milk, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir everything together until all the ingredients are well combined and look deliciously inviting.
3. Prepare for Baking:
Pour the pineapple mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it evenly across the bottom. Make sure it’s nice and flat so it cooks evenly.
4. Bake to Perfection:
Pop your baking dish into the preheated oven and let it bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye out for golden edges and a set center—this means the bites are ready!
5. Cool Down and Cut:
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool completely in the dish. This could take about 15-20 minutes. Once cool, use a sharp knife to cut the mixture into bite-sized squares. They should come out nicely!
6. Add the Finishing Touches:
For a delightful finish, drizzle some extra coconut milk over the top of your squares and sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes. This adds both flavor and a pretty touch!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Coconut Pineapple Bites are now ready to be served! Enjoy these delicious, tropical treats, perfect for any occasion!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
Yes, canned pineapple works well in this recipe! Just make sure to drain it thoroughly to eliminate excess moisture. You may want to chop it into smaller pieces to mimic the texture of fresh pineapple.
What Can I Use Instead of Coconut Milk?
If you don’t have coconut milk, you can substitute it with almond milk or another non-dairy milk. Keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly, but it will still be delicious. You can also use regular milk if you prefer dairy.
How to Store Leftovers
Store leftover Coconut Pineapple Bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. They can be enjoyed cold or warmed slightly in the microwave for a few seconds to soften them up.
Can I Make These Bites Vegan?
Yes! This recipe is naturally vegan as it contains no eggs or dairy, especially if you choose to use unsweetened coconut as your coconut milk. Just make sure you use granulated sugar that is certified vegan if you’re concerned about sugar processing!
