Tropical Pineapple Bars (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the Crust

01 - 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1/4 tsp salt
04 - 3/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed

→ For the Filling

05 - 1 cup crushed pineapple, well-drained
06 - 2 large eggs
07 - 1 cup granulated sugar
08 - 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
09 - 1/2 tsp baking powder
10 - 1 tsp vanilla extract

→ For Finishing

11 - Powdered sugar for dusting

# Instructions:

01 - Heat your oven to 350°F and grab a 9×13 baking pan. Line it with parchment paper, making sure to leave some hanging over the edges so you can easily lift out your bars later.
02 - In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups flour, 1/2 cup sugar, and that pinch of salt. Now add your cold butter cubes and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work it in until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into your lined pan to create a solid base.
03 - Slide that pan into your preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes, just until the edges start to turn slightly golden. Pull it out and let it cool a bit while you make the filling.
04 - In another bowl, whisk those eggs and 1 cup sugar together until they're smooth and a bit fluffy. Stir in the 1/4 cup flour, baking powder, and vanilla until well combined. Finally, fold in your well-drained crushed pineapple – make sure it's really drained well or your bars could end up soggy!
05 - Pour your pineapple filling over the slightly cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Pop it back in the oven for 25-30 minutes. You'll know it's done when the edges are set and the center just barely jiggles when you give the pan a gentle shake.
06 - Let those bars cool completely in the pan – this is important for them to set properly. Once they're cool, dust the top generously with powdered sugar (don't be shy here!). Then lift the whole thing out using the parchment paper overhangs and slice into squares on a cutting board.

# Notes:

01 - These gooey, crumbly, pineapple-packed bliss bars will give you a serious taste of warm weather tropical vibes no matter the season!
02 - For extra tropical flavor, try adding 1/2 cup shredded coconut to the filling mixture.
03 - You can garnish the bars with fresh pineapple slices or toasted coconut for an extra special presentation.
04 - These bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.