Coconut Pineapple Bites are little pieces of tropical joy! They combine sweet pineapple with rich coconut, making them a tasty treat perfect for any snack time. Yum!
These bites are really easy to make and are sure to bring a smile to your face. I love serving them at parties, and they always disappear quickly. Who can resist that flavor? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple adds a juicy, sweet flavor to the bites. If fresh pineapple isn’t available, canned pineapple in juice works well too. Just make sure to drain it properly before using.
Coconut Milk: Coconut milk provides creaminess and a rich flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute it with almond milk or soy milk, but the flavor will change a bit.
Sweetened Shredded Coconut: This ingredient gives delightful texture and sweetness. If you want a less sweet version, consider using unsweetened shredded coconut instead.
Sugar: White sugar is standard here, but feel free to use brown sugar for a deeper flavor. For a healthier alternative, you can try honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar, but you may need to adjust the liquid content slightly.
Condensed Milk: This addition is optional but it adds richness. If you want a vegan option, try using a plant-based condensed milk or just skip it entirely!
How Can I Ensure the Perfect Bake for My Coconut Pineapple Bites?
The key to getting your bites perfectly set is baking them at the right temperature and for the right time. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) allows for even baking.
- Mix all the ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors and textures. No lumps should remain.
- Spread the mixture evenly in the baking dish; this helps the bites cook evenly.
- Check for doneness at around 25 minutes. Look for a set and slightly golden top; if it still jiggles, give it a few more minutes.
- Let the mixture cool completely before cutting. This will help the bites hold their shape better.
Following these steps will give you perfect coconut pineapple bites each time!
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 cup sweetened shredded coconut, plus extra for garnish
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk (optional for drizzling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to bake. After baking, expect to let it cool for at least 30 minutes before serving, giving you a total of about 1 hour and 10 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced pineapple, coconut milk, sugar, cornstarch, salt, and vanilla extract. Use a spoon to stir everything together until it’s well mixed and smooth.
3. Pour into the Baking Dish:
Take a greased 8×8 inch baking dish and pour your mixture into it. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly so every bite will have a nice texture.
4. Bake the Mixture:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the mixture is set and has a slight golden color on top!
5. Cool It Down:
Once you remove the dish from the oven, let it cool completely. This step is important for achieving the right texture before cutting.
6. Cut into Bites:
When it’s completely cool, cut the mixture into small squares or rectangles. These will be your tasty bites!
7. Toast the Coconut:
Grab a skillet and heat it over medium heat. Add the extra shredded coconut and toast it until it’s golden brown, stirring frequently. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
8. Garnish and Drizzle:
Top each coconut pineapple bite with the toasted coconut. If you fancy a little sweetness, drizzle some sweetened condensed milk over the top as well.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Your coconut pineapple bites can be served chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy this refreshing tropical dessert with friends and family!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use canned pineapple if that’s what you have on hand! Just make sure to drain the juice well to avoid excess moisture in the batter. You might also want to reduce the sugar a bit since canned pineapple can be sweeter than fresh.
What Can I Substitute for Coconut Milk?
If you don’t have coconut milk, you can substitute it with regular milk or almond milk for a different flavor. However, to maintain that tropical essence, consider using a mixture of half milk and half unsweetened coconut yogurt for a creamier texture.
How to Store Leftover Coconut Pineapple Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’d like, you can also freeze them! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. To thaw, leave them in the fridge overnight before serving.
Can I Make This Dessert Vegan?
Absolutely! To make this recipe vegan, simply use coconut milk and omit the sweetened condensed milk, or replace it with a plant-based alternative such as coconut cream. The rest of the ingredients are already vegan-friendly!
