Chocolate Almond Bars
Decadent chocolate almond bars feature a sweet pineapple flavor combined with crunchy almonds and a hint of orange, perfect for a tropical-inspired treat or dessert platter.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the crushed pineapple well and reserve the juice.
- Cream the oleo until light and fluffy.
- Beat in 1 tablespoon of pineapple juice and brown sugar until well combined.
- Add flour and beat well to form a dough.
- Press the mixture into a 9 x 9-inch pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes until golden.
- In a small pan, combine chocolate chips with 3 tablespoons of pineapple juice, orange rind, vanilla, and cinnamon.
- Melt over low heat, stirring until smooth.
- Spread the melted chocolate mixture evenly over the baked crust.
- Top with the drained pineapple evenly over the chocolate layer.
- Sprinkle sliced almonds on top.
- Allow to cool completely before cutting into 16 bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsweetened cocoa powder in place of some of the flour. You can also substitute coconut oil for oleo if you're looking for a dairy-free option. Make sure to drain the pineapple thoroughly to avoid a soggy crust. If you prefer a nuttier taste, try toasting the sliced almonds before adding them on top.
Serving Suggestions
These chocolate almond bars are perfect for dessert or as a sweet snack. Serve them alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat. They also pair beautifully with Jasmine'S Lemonade for a refreshing contrast. For a festive touch, consider serving them at parties or gatherings alongside other treats like Easy Layered Dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store the chocolate almond bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or enjoy them cold for a refreshing treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chocolate Almond Bars contains roughly 211 calories, with 1g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 3g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple, but be sure to finely chop it and drain it well before incorporating it into the recipe. The texture and sweetness may vary, so adjust the sugar accordingly if you prefer a sweeter bar.
How can I make these bars gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that can be used in baking. Be sure to check that the chocolate chips are also gluten-free. This will ensure that you can enjoy the bars without gluten.
What can I use instead of chocolate chips?
If you want to switch things up, consider using white chocolate chips or even butterscotch chips for a different flavor profile. You could also melt down a chocolate bar if you prefer a specific type of chocolate, adjusting the amount to your taste.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).