Coconut Pineapple Bites are sweet and tasty treats that combine juicy pineapple and creamy coconut. Just a quick and fun snack that brings tropical vibes right to your kitchen!
These little bites are perfect for parties or just when you need a cheerful pick-me-up. I love popping them in my mouth while dreaming of sunny beaches. Who’s with me? 🏖️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple adds a delightful sweetness and tang. If you’re short on time, canned pineapple works too, just be sure to drain it well to avoid excess liquid.
Coconut Milk: Creamy coconut milk gives richness. Light coconut milk or even almond milk can be used for a lighter version, but you may lose a bit of that coconut flavor.
Sugar: Regular granulated sugar is perfect here, but you can use coconut sugar for a slight caramel flavor or a sugar substitute if you’re watching your sugar intake.
Cornstarch: This thickens the mixture. If you’re looking for a gluten-free alternative, arrowroot powder or tapioca starch can do the job!
Shredded Coconut: You can use sweetened or unsweetened shredded coconut based on your preference. If you’re avoiding added sugars, unsweetened is the way to go.
How Do I Ensure the Mixture Thickens Perfectly?
Getting your mixture to thicken properly is key for these coconut pineapple bites. Here’s how to do it right:
- Combine all the ingredients in the saucepan and keep stirring to avoid sticking.
- Heat on medium; too high might scorch the bottom. It’s best to be patient.
- Once it starts bubbling, continue stirring for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens. It should look smooth and glossy!
How to Make Coconut Pineapple Bites?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups fresh pineapple, diced
- 1 cup coconut milk
- ½ cup sugar
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- ½ cup shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened)
- ¼ cup toasted coconut flakes (for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and requires at least 2 hours to chill in the refrigerator. So, in total, plan for around 2 hours and 10 minutes before you can enjoy your tasty bites!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
In a medium saucepan, start by adding the diced fresh pineapple, coconut milk, sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix them together well so everything is nicely blended.
2. Heat the Mixture:
Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir the mixture constantly as it heats up. You’ll see it start to thicken and bubble—this should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Keep stirring to avoid any lumps!
3. Fold in Coconut:
Once the mixture is thickened, take the saucepan off the heat. Gently fold in the shredded coconut, making sure it’s well incorporated.
4. Pour and Set:
Next, pour your delicious mixture into a greased square baking dish, about 8×8 inches in size. Spread it out evenly so that it will set nicely.
5. Chill to Set:
Let the mixture cool at room temperature for around 30 minutes. After that, pop it into the refrigerator for at least 2 hours so it can firm up.
6. Cut into Bites:
Once the mixture is set, take it out of the fridge and cut it into bite-sized squares. They’ll be perfect for snacking!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
To serve, you can drizzle your coconut pineapple bites with some extra coconut milk if you like. Give them a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes on top for a nice finish. Enjoy your refreshing treat!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use canned pineapple! Just make sure to drain it well before dicing to remove excess juice. This will help maintain the right consistency in your Coconut Pineapple Bites.
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Recipe?
If you prefer a less sweet dessert, feel free to reduce the sugar to 1/4 cup or even omit it entirely since the pineapple adds natural sweetness. Just taste the mixture before pouring it into the baking dish to ensure it meets your preference!
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! This recipe is already dairy-free with the use of coconut milk. Just make sure you choose a brand that’s free from any additives if you’re strict about dairy avoidance. You can also serve it with almond or oat milk instead of coconut milk for a different flavor!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For best results, gently reheat individual servings in the microwave for a few seconds before enjoying them!
