These Coconut Pineapple Bites are a fun and refreshing treat! With sweet pineapple and creamy coconut, they’re like a tropical vacation in your mouth.
They’re super easy to make and perfect for snacking or adding to a party platter. Every bite reminds me of sunny beaches and palm trees. Who’s ready for a taste of paradise? 🏖️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple brings a zingy sweetness that’s hard to beat. If fresh isn’t available, you can use frozen pineapple chunks. Just thaw and drain any excess liquid before using.
Coconut Milk: Full-fat coconut milk adds creaminess. If you want a lighter version, you can try light coconut milk or even almond milk, though the flavor will change a bit.
Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the dish, but you can adjust it based on your taste. For a healthier alternative, consider using honey, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute if you’re watching your sugar intake.
Shredded Coconut: Unsweetened shredded coconut is my favorite for this recipe, as it keeps it less sugary. If you only have sweetened on hand, just reduce the overall sugar.
Condensed Milk: This gives a rich drizzle. You can skip it or use a lighter syrup if you’re looking for a healthier option. Coconut cream could also be a fun alternative!
How Do I Thicken the Mixture Properly?
Thickening the pineapple mixture is essential for a nice texture. You’ll create a cornstarch slurry to do this, and here’s how:
- In a small bowl, stir cornstarch with 1/4 cup of water until smooth.
- Heat your pineapple mixture gently until it’s warm, then slowly whisk in the cornstarch slurry. This prevents lumps.
- Keep stirring for about 5-7 minutes until it gets thicker. Cook it enough that it clings to the spoon.
This technique ensures your Coconut Pineapple Bites hold their shape and don’t become too runny!
How to Make Coconut Pineapple Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Base:
- 2 cups fresh pineapple, diced
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup shredded coconut (unsweetened)
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Drizzle and Garnish:
- 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk (for drizzling)
- 1/4 cup toasted coconut flakes (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to bake. After baking, it will need to cool completely, so plan for about 1 hour of cooling time before serving. It’s a simple and delicious tropical treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, grease a square baking dish lightly to keep the bites from sticking.
2. Heat the Pineapple Mixture:
In a medium saucepan, combine the diced pineapple, coconut milk, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Place it on medium heat and stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely. This will create a yummy and fragrant base.
3. Create the Cornstarch Slurry:
In a separate small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 1/4 cup of water to form a slurry. This will help thicken your mixture later. Slowly whisk this slurry into the pineapple mixture in the saucepan.
4. Thicken the Mixture:
Add the shredded coconut and vanilla extract to the pan. Continue cooking while stirring constantly for about 5-7 minutes or until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble. You’ll know it’s ready when it has a nice, creamy consistency!
5. Bake the Mixture:
Pour the thickened mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing it out evenly with a spatula. Pop it in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden brown.
6. Cool and Cut:
After baking, carefully remove the dish from the oven and let it cool completely in the baking dish. This might take about an hour. Once cooled, slice it into small bite-size squares.
7. Drizzle & Garnish:
For the final touch, drizzle sweetened condensed milk over each square and sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes. This adds a delicious sweetness and a nice crunch!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
These Coconut Pineapple Bites can be served chilled or at room temperature. They make for a delightful tropical treat any time! Enjoy your sweet creation!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use canned pineapple if fresh isn’t available! Just make sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture in your mixture. You may want to reduce the sugar slightly since canned pineapple is often sweeter than fresh.
What Can I Substitute for Granulated Sugar?
You can replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol. Just be sure to adjust the quantity according to the sweetness of your chosen substitute, as they can vary greatly in sweetness level!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the squares; just make sure to layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Can I Make These Coconut Pineapple Bites Vegan?
Absolutely! The recipe is already dairy-free with the use of coconut milk. Just skip the sweetened condensed milk drizzle or use a vegan alternative made from coconut or almonds, which you can easily find at most grocery stores.
