Coconut Pineapple Squares
Sweet and tangy Coconut Pineapple Squares feature a buttery crust topped with pineapple and a sugary egg filling, perfect for parties or casual gatherings with tropical flavor appeal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix 1/2 cup margarine and 1/4 cup sugar with a fork until well combined.
- Add 1 1/4 cups flour and mix well until crumbs form.
- Use your hands to knead the mixture into a soft dough.
- Press the dough evenly into the bottom of a 9 x 9 x 2-inch pan, with a 1/2-inch edge up the sides.
- Prick the crust with a fork.
- Bake for 15 minutes in a 350°F oven. Remove from oven.
- Spread the drained crushed pineapple evenly over the crust.
- Add 1/2 cup sugar to the beaten egg and mix well.
- Fold the sugar-egg mixture into the melted margarine.
- Pour the filling over the pineapple layer.
- Bake for an additional 20 minutes in the 350°F oven.
- Cool completely and cut into squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. If you prefer a lighter sweetness, reduce the sugar in the filling to 1/3 cup. If fresh pineapple is available, you can use it instead of canned; just make sure to drain it well. To avoid a soggy crust, ensure the crushed pineapple is well-drained before layering.
Serving Suggestions
These Coconut Pineapple Squares make a delightful dessert on their own, but they pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. They are perfect for summer barbecues or potlucks, alongside dishes like My 'Sweet' Cornbread or Hot Cranberry And Apple Casserole. Garnish with toasted coconut for an extra touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Coconut Pineapple Squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or enjoy them cold straight from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Coconut Pineapple Squares contains roughly 99 calories, with 1g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 7g 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! Just make sure to finely chop and thoroughly drain it to avoid excess moisture. This will help maintain the texture of your squares. Fresh pineapple adds a vibrant flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
What can I substitute for margarine?
You can substitute margarine with unsalted butter for a richer flavor. If you prefer a dairy-free option, coconut oil also works well and enhances the coconut flavor of the recipe. Just ensure it's melted before mixing with the other ingredients.
How do I know when the squares are done baking?
The squares are done when the top is lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking times may vary slightly based on your oven, so keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to avoid overbaking.
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).