Description
These Pineapple Coconut Cheesecake Bars combine a buttery graham cracker crust with a creamy pineapple-infused cheesecake filling, topped with sweet shredded coconut. Perfectly baked and chilled, they offer a tropical twist on a classic dessert that’s ideal for gatherings or a sweet treat any time.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
Topping
- 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the bars.
- Make the Crust: Combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a bowl. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust base.
- Beat Cream Cheese and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until the mixture is smooth and creamy with no lumps.
- Add Eggs and Flavoring: Add the eggs one at a time to the cream cheese mixture, beating well after each addition to fully incorporate. Then stir in the vanilla extract and the drained crushed pineapple until evenly combined.
- Assemble Filling: Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust in the pan and spread it out evenly with a spatula to ensure an even bake.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle the shredded sweetened coconut evenly over the top of the cheesecake filling as a sweet and crunchy topping.
- Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly browned, indicating that the cheesecake is cooked through.
- Cool and Chill: Allow the cheesecake bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until thoroughly chilled and firm, before slicing into 16 bars.
Notes
- Make sure the crushed pineapple is well drained to avoid excess moisture that could affect the texture.
- Use room temperature cream cheese for a smoother batter that blends easily with the sugar and other ingredients.
- Chilling the cheesecake bars overnight will improve the flavor and help them hold their shape better when slicing.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
