Coconut Pineapple Bites are a sweet and tropical treat that’s super easy to make! Imagine juicy pineapple chunks coated in a layer of coconut—yum!
These bites are perfect for snacks or parties, and they never last long around my friends. I love popping them in the fridge for a refreshing snack on hot days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple gives the best flavor and texture, but you can use canned pineapple if fresh is not available. Just make sure to rinse it to reduce the syrupy sweetness.
Shredded Coconut: I prefer unsweetened shredded coconut for a balanced taste. If coconut isn’t your favorite, you can swap it with finely chopped nuts or oats for a different texture.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: This is crucial for creaminess, but if you’re looking for fewer calories, try using a light condensed milk or a non-dairy version if needed.
Coconut Milk: You can replace this with regular milk or almond milk if you’re not a fan of coconut flavor. Just know it will alter the taste a bit.
How Do I Achieve the Right Consistency When Thickening the Mixture?
Getting the thickness just right is essential for these bites. When adding the cornstarch slurry, make sure to stir constantly. Here’s how to do it:
- Mix cornstarch with water in a bowl until smooth.
- Gradually stir this slurry into the bubbling pineapple mixture. This helps avoid clumps.
- Keep cooking and stirring for 2-3 minutes. You’ll see it thicken up nicely!
Don’t rush this step; it’s key to getting those perfect bite-sized treats!
How to Make Coconut Pineapple Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Mixture:
- 2 cups fresh pineapple, finely chopped
- 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup coconut milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For Garnish:
- Extra shredded coconut
- Optional: toasted coconut flakes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful treat takes about 10 minutes of prep time and about 2 hours to chill in the fridge to set. In total, you’ll spend around 2 hours and 10 minutes creating these tasty bites. Perfect for a quick dessert or a fun snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pineapple:
Start by placing a medium saucepan on the stove over medium heat. Add the finely chopped pineapple, sugar, and salt to the saucepan. Cook and stir for about 5-7 minutes until the mixture starts to bubble and the pineapple softens. It should smell amazing!
2. Mixing in the Creaminess:
Next, stir in the coconut milk and sweetened condensed milk. Make sure to mix everything well so that it’s nice and creamy. Keep stirring as you allow it to heat up for a minute or so.
3. Thickening the Mixture:
Now, let’s make a cornstarch slurry! In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a few tablespoons of water until it’s smooth. Gradually add this slurry into the pineapple mixture while stirring constantly. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens up nicely. You want it to have a rich, thick texture.
4. Adding Flavor and Coconut:
Remove the saucepan from the heat, and stir in the vanilla extract and 1 cup of shredded coconut. Mix it really well so that the coconut is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
5. Setting the Mixture:
Pour your delicious mixture into a lightly greased 8×8 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Let it cool down to room temperature, then pop it in the fridge for at least 2 hours. This helps it set, making it easier to cut into bites.
6. Cutting and Serving:
Once your mixture has set, take it out of the fridge and cut it into bite-sized squares. Arrange the bites on a serving plate to make it look appealing.
7. Garnishing for Extra Flavor:
Before serving, drizzle a little extra sweetened condensed milk over the bites, and sprinkle with more shredded coconut or some toasted coconut flakes if you like. It adds a lovely touch!
Enjoy your delightful Coconut Pineapple Bites with family and friends!
## FAQ for Coconut Pineapple Bites
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use canned pineapple! Just make sure to drain it well and chop it into small pieces. Since canned pineapple is often sweeter than fresh, consider reducing the amount of sugar in the recipe to balance the sweetness.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make these Coconut Pineapple Bites dairy-free, substitute the sweetened condensed milk with a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut cream mixed with a bit of sugar to achieve the same consistency and sweetness. You can find store-bought vegan condensed milk options, too!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. For best results, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving, as this will help retain their delightful texture and flavor.
Can I Freeze Coconut Pineapple Bites?
Absolutely! These bites freeze well. Just ensure they are fully chilled, then place them in a single layer in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before serving!
