Pineapple Cranberry Bars(Makes 36 Bars)
Sweet and tart pineapple cranberry bars combine juicy cranberries with tropical pineapple in a buttery, nut-studded crust, perfect for holiday gatherings or casual desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 13 x 9-inch baking dish.
- Combine cranberries, 3 tablespoons of cornstarch, and crushed pineapple in a medium saucepan.
- Bring to a boil, stirring constantly.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes until cranberry skins pop and mixture thickens, stirring occasionally.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, chopped nuts, salt, 1 cup of brown sugar, and butter to form a crumbly mixture.
- Press half of the crumb mixture into the prepared baking dish to form a crust.
- Spread the cooked cranberry-pineapple filling evenly over the crust.
- Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture on top.
- Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool before cutting into 36 bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter bar, consider adding an extra tablespoon of brown sugar to the cranberry-pineapple filling. If you want a nut-free version, simply omit the chopped nuts or substitute them with oats for added texture. Using fresh cranberries will give a brighter flavor, but frozen ones work just as well. Make sure to thaw and drain them if using frozen cranberries to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these bars as a delightful dessert or a sweet snack alongside a cup of tea or coffee. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat. For a refreshing contrast, consider serving them with a side of California Walking Salad, which adds a crunchy and fruity element to the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Pineapple Cranberry Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place the bars in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or enjoy them cold. For longer storage, consider freezing them; just wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pineapple Cranberry Bars(Makes 36 Bars) contains roughly 136 calories, with 1g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 2g 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 make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, these bars can be made a day in advance. After baking, let them cool completely before cutting and storing them in an airtight container. This allows the flavors to meld together, making them even more delicious when served the next day.
What can I substitute for butter in this recipe?
You can substitute the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based margarine for a vegan option. If you prefer a healthier fat, unsweetened applesauce can also work, but it may alter the texture slightly, making it more cake-like.
Can I use other fruits in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can experiment with other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or chopped peaches in place of cranberries. Just ensure the fruit has a similar moisture content to maintain the bar's consistency. Mixing fruits can also create a unique flavor profile that enhances the dish.
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).