These Coconut Pineapple Bites are little bursts of tropical joy! With sweet pineapple and creamy coconut, they make a perfect snack or dessert.
They’re super quick to whip up, and the taste takes you straight to a sunny beach. I love topping them off with a sprinkle of crushed nuts for some crunch—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple adds a vibrant flavor, but if you can’t find fresh, canned pineapple works too. Just make sure to drain it well. I love using fresh for that sweet tropical taste!
Coconut Milk: This gives the bites a rich, creamy texture. If you’re dairy-free, stick with coconut milk. You can also try almond milk, but it might change the flavor a bit.
All-Purpose Flour: This is essential for structure. For a gluten-free option, you could use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. I’ve had good results with that!
Shredded Coconut: Sweetened or unsweetened can be used based on your preference. I personally like the sweetened version for that extra hint of sweetness.
Vanilla Extract: This adds a warm flavor. If you’re out, you can skip it, but I wouldn’t recommend it—it really enhances the taste!
How Do You Ensure Even Mixing for a Great Texture?
One important step in this recipe is mixing the wet and dry ingredients carefully. You want a nice, even batter without overmixing it. Here’s how:
- Start by combining the wet ingredients well before adding the dry ones.
- When you mix them together, stir gently until you just see no flour streaks. This will help keep your bites tender.
- Finally, fold in the shredded coconut lightly, so you don’t break it up and ensure it’s evenly spread.
How to Make Coconut Pineapple Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Batter:
- 2 cups fresh pineapple, finely chopped
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For The Finish:
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened)
- 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
- Extra shredded coconut for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and about 30-35 minutes to bake. Start to finish, you can expect to spend around an hour before they’re ready to enjoy, including cooling time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, let’s get your oven warmed up! Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). While that’s happening, grab an 8×8 inch square baking dish and grease it well to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine your finely chopped pineapple, coconut milk, and vanilla extract. Give it a good mix so everything blends together nicely!
3. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Make sure it’s well mixed so the baking powder can help our bites rise!
4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
Now, slowly add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients. Stir gently just until combined. Be careful not to over-mix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
5. Fold in the Coconut:
Gently fold in the shredded coconut into the batter. This will add that lovely coconut flavor and texture throughout!
6. Pour and Smooth:
Pour the batter into the greased baking dish. Use a spatula to smooth the top so that it bakes evenly.
7. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. It’s done when the top is lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it towards the end!
8. Cool and Drizzle:
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. While it’s still warm, drizzle the sweetened condensed milk over the top and sprinkle with extra shredded coconut for an appealing look.
9. Slice and Serve:
After allowing the bites to cool completely (patience is key!), cut them into squares and serve. Enjoy your delightful Coconut Pineapple Bites as a tropical treat—perfect for sharing or savoring all on your own!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
Yes, canned pineapple works well too! Just make sure to drain it thoroughly to avoid excess liquid in the batter. You can use the same amount (2 cups) as fresh pineapple, but chopped smaller if needed.
Can I Substitute the Coconut Milk?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a non-dairy option, almond milk or soy milk can be used as a substitute. Keep in mind that it might slightly alter the flavor and creaminess, but it will still be delicious!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Coconut Pineapple Bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for about a week. If you’d like to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to a month. Just thaw them at room temperature when ready to enjoy!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Batter?
Definitely! You can mix in some chopped nuts, like macadamia or almonds, for added crunch. Dried fruits such as mango or banana chips also make a lovely addition. Just keep the quantities balanced so it doesn’t affect the texture too much!
