Sweet Pineapple Delight Crumble Bars

Introduction

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm dessert that combines the tropical sweetness of pineapple with a buttery crumble. When I first made these Sweet Pineapple Delight Crumble Bars, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but they quickly became a family favorite. The bright, tangy pineapple filling pairs beautifully with the rich, crumbly crust, making it the perfect treat for gatherings or a quiet evening at home. My kids absolutely love them, often requesting these bars for their school lunches or as a snack after dinner. Each bite is a little slice of sunshine, and I can’t wait to share this delightful recipe with you!

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (1 stick)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• Pinch of salt (optional and to taste)

For the Filling:

• 1 large egg
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ⅓ cup sour cream (plain or vanilla Greek yogurt may be substituted)
• 1 ½ teaspoons McCormick Pure Vanilla Extract
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• One 20-ounce can pineapple chunks, drained (fresh or frozen could likely be substituted)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch pan with aluminum foil. Lightly spray it with cooking spray and set aside.

Make the Crust

2. In a large bowl, add the softened butter, 1 cup of flour, ½ cup of sugar, and a pinch of salt if desired. Using two forks or a pastry cutter, cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles sandy crumbs with pea-sized bits of butter.
3. Reserve ¾ cup of this mixture for the crumble topping and set it aside.
4. Transfer the remaining mixture into the prepared pan. Using your fingertips or the back of a spatula, press the crumbs evenly into the pan to form a crust.
5. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes.

Make the Filling

6. While the crust is baking, prepare the filling. In the same bowl used for the crust, add the egg, ½ cup of sugar, sour cream, vanilla extract, and ¼ cup of flour. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
7. Once the crust has finished baking, remove it from the oven and evenly top it with the pineapple chunks. Aim to cover about 90% of the surface area with the chunks, placing them close together but not touching.
8. Carefully pour the sour cream mixture over the pineapple, ensuring it reaches the corners of the pan.
9. Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture evenly over the top to create a delicious crumble topping.

Bake

10. Return the pan to the oven and bake for about 35 minutes, or until the edges and top are set and lightly golden.
11. Once baked, place the pan on a wire rack and allow the bars to cool for at least 1 hour before slicing and serving.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 16 bars
• Calories per serving: Approximately 150 kcal
• Total Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 30mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 20g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 9g
• Protein: 2g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

How to Serve

• Cut into squares or bars.
• Serve warm or at room temperature.
• Optional toppings:
• A dollop of whipped cream
• A scoop of vanilla ice cream
• Drizzle of caramel sauce

Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Pineapple: If you have access to fresh pineapple, feel free to use it instead of canned for an even fresher flavor.
2. Chill for Easier Cutting: For cleaner slices, refrigerate the bars for an hour after cooling at room temperature.
3. Experiment with Flavors: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the crust for an extra flavor dimension.
4. Add Nuts: Incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the crumble topping for added texture.
5. Make Ahead: These bars can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until serving.

Recipe Variations

• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
• Dairy-Free: Use vegan butter and a dairy-free yogurt alternative.
• Fruit Variations: Substitute pineapple with other fruits like peaches, berries, or cherries for different flavor profiles.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve these bars as a delightful dessert at family gatherings, picnics, or potlucks.
• Pair with a light salad for a refreshing summer meal.
• Perfect for brunch alongside coffee or tea.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Freezing: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

• Yes, fresh pineapple works well! Just be sure to chop it into similar-sized pieces.

1. Can I substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream?

• Absolutely! Greek yogurt adds a nice tang and creaminess.

1. What if I don’t have an 8×8 pan?

• You can use a 9×9 inch pan; just adjust the baking time slightly.

1. Can I add other fruits to the filling?

• Yes, feel free to mix in other fruits for a unique flavor!

1. How do I know when the bars are done baking?

• The edges should be set and the top should look lightly golden.

1. Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?

• It can be adapted by using vegan butter, a flax egg, and dairy-free yogurt.

1. How do I prevent the crust from becoming too hard?

• Make sure not to over-bake the crust; it should just be set before adding the filling.

1. Can I use a different type of sugar?

• Yes, brown sugar can be used for a deeper flavor.

1. What should I do if my filling is too runny?

• Make sure to whisk the filling ingredients thoroughly; if it seems runny, you can add a little more flour.

1. How should I store leftovers?

• Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for freshness.

Conclusion

These Sweet Pineapple Delight Crumble Bars are not just a treat; they are a celebration of flavors that will brighten any day. Their easy preparation makes them a go-to dessert for gatherings or simply a sweet indulgence after a long day. With the perfect balance of creamy and crunchy textures, they’re sure to become a cherished recipe in your household. Give them a try, and I guarantee they’ll be a hit with family and friends alike!

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