Pineapple Coconut Bars

Ingredients:

Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 cup butter, softened

Filling:

• 2 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups white sugar
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 (20 ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained
• 1 cup sweetened flaked coconut
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. Prepare the Crust:
   • In a medium bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups flour, 1/2 cup sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon baking powder.
   • Cut in the softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking pan.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned.
3. Prepare the Filling:
   • In a large bowl, beat the eggs until light and fluffy.
   • Gradually beat in 1 1/2 cups sugar, 1/4 cup flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
   • Stir in the drained crushed pineapple, flaked coconut, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Assemble and Bake:
   • Pour the pineapple mixture over the baked crust, spreading it out evenly.
   • Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25 to 30 minutes, or until the filling is set and lightly browned.
5. Cool and Serve:
   • Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
   • Once cooled, cut into squares and serve.

Tips:

• Ensure the pineapple is well-drained to prevent the bars from becoming too soggy.
• For a nuttier flavor, you can add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans) to the filling mixture.
• Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Enjoy your Pineapple Coconut Bars!