E-Z Pineapple Cookie Bars
Sweet, tropical pineapple cookie bars with coconut and buttery cake topping, perfect for parties or casual gatherings, offering a delightful combination of fruity and buttery flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spread the undrained crushed pineapple in the bottom of a 9 x 13 inch pan.
- Sprinkle the coconut evenly over the pineapple layer.
- Sprinkle the yellow cake mix evenly on top of the coconut.
- Pat the cake mix down gently.
- Shred the butter and evenly distribute it over the top.
- Bake at 350°F until golden brown, about 30 minutes.
- Cool thoroughly before cutting into bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsweetened coconut instead of the Angel Flake coconut. If you want to add a bit of texture, mix in some chopped nuts or a handful of chocolate chips. Make sure to pat down the cake mix gently to ensure it cooks evenly. You can also experiment with different cake mix flavors for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
These cookie bars are delightful on their own but can be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. They pair well with a refreshing Butterfly Salad for a light meal or snack. For a festive touch, serve them at gatherings alongside Ohio State Buckeyes or other sweet treats.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Pineapple Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place a bar in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds until warmed through, ensuring it doesn't dry out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of E-Z Pineapple Cookie Bars contains roughly 167 calories, with 1g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 9g 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 make sure to crush it and drain excess juice for the right consistency. Canned pineapple is easier and ensures a uniform texture, but fresh can add a nice flavor if prepared correctly.
What can I substitute for butter?
If you're looking for a butter substitute, you can use margarine or coconut oil. For a healthier option, unsweetened applesauce can work, but it may alter the texture slightly, making the bars a bit softer.
How do I know when the cookie bars are done baking?
The bars are done when they are golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to prevent over-baking.
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).