When the sun is shining and the temperatures rise, the last thing anyone wants to do is turn on the oven. That’s where these No-Bake Pineapple Coconut Bars truly shine! They’re a little slice of tropical paradise, combining the bright tang of pineapple with the sweet, aromatic flavor of coconut, all nestled on a buttery graham cracker crust. This dessert is incredibly easy to make, requires no baking whatsoever, and delivers a refreshingly cool and creamy treat perfect for warm weather gatherings or a simple indulgence. Get ready to whisk yourself away to a beachside escape with every bite!
Why I Love This Recipe
I’m a big fan of desserts that pack a punch of flavor without demanding hours in the kitchen, and these No-Bake Pineapple Coconut Bars fit that bill perfectly. What I especially love about this recipe is its effortless simplicity. The combination of sweet pineapple and fragrant coconut immediately transports me to a sunny beach, making it the ideal treat for summer picnics, barbecues, or just a sweet escape on a hot day. The creamy filling is light yet satisfying, and the crunchy graham cracker crust adds a delightful texture contrast. It’s a no-fuss dessert that always disappears fast, and I guarantee you’ll be making it on repeat!
List of Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create these refreshing No-Bake Pineapple Coconut Bars:
For the Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 14-16 full graham cracker sheets)
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
For the Filling:
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- ¼ cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed for best flavor)
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, thoroughly drained
- 1 cup shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened)
For Garnish (Optional):
- Pineapple chunks
- Additional shredded coconut
Swaps and Notes
- Graham Cracker Crumbs: You can buy pre-made graham cracker crumbs or make your own by crushing graham crackers in a food processor or a plastic bag with a rolling pin. Any type of plain cookie crumb (like vanilla wafers or shortbread) could also work for the crust.
- Butter: Unsalted melted butter is best for the crust. If using salted butter, you can omit the granulated sugar in the crust or reduce it slightly.
- Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature. This is crucial for a smooth, lump-free filling. Take it out of the fridge at least 30 minutes to an hour before you start.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: This provides the bulk of the sweetness and the creamy texture. Do not confuse it with evaporated milk, as they are not interchangeable in this recipe.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the flavors and helps the filling set. Bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch, but fresh is always superior for taste.
- Crushed Pineapple: Thoroughly draining the crushed pineapple is key! Excess liquid will make your bars too runny and prevent them from setting properly. Press out as much liquid as possible using a fine-mesh sieve or paper towels.
- Shredded Coconut: Sweetened shredded coconut will give you a sweeter, moister filling. Unsweetened shredded coconut can be used if you prefer less sweetness or want a more intense coconut flavor.
- Garnish: The garnish adds a lovely touch, but it’s optional. Toasted coconut flakes could also be a nice addition for garnish.
List of Steps for the Recipe
Follow these simple steps to create your delightful and refreshing No-Bake Pineapple Coconut Bars:
- Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted unsalted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix thoroughly with a fork or your hands until all the crumbs are moistened.
- Press the Crust: Transfer the mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish. Using the bottom of a glass or your fingers, press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the dish to form a compact crust. Set aside.
- Beat Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until it is completely smooth and creamy, with no lumps.
- Add Condensed Milk: Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk to the cream cheese, mixing on low speed until everything is well combined and smooth. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Stir in Lemon Juice: Add the lemon juice to the mixture and continue to mix until it is well incorporated. You will notice the mixture begin to thicken as the lemon juice reacts with the condensed milk.
- Fold in Pineapple & Coconut: Gently fold in the thoroughly drained crushed pineapple and 1 cup of shredded coconut using a spatula until they are evenly distributed throughout the creamy filling.
- Spread the Filling: Spread the pineapple coconut mixture evenly over the graham cracker crust in the prepared baking dish. Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to smooth the top.
- Garnish (Optional): Sprinkle additional shredded coconut evenly over the top of the filling for an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal.
- Chill to Set: Place the baking dish in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or ideally until the bars are completely firm and set. This is crucial for easy cutting and serving.
- Cut and Garnish: Once the bars are fully set, remove the dish from the refrigerator. Cut them into desired squares or bars. Just before serving, garnish each bar with a pineapple chunk and a sprinkle of additional shredded coconut, if desired. Enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Drain Pineapple Well: This is the most critical step for a firm bar. Squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the crushed pineapple. You can use a fine-mesh sieve and the back of a spoon, or even press it between layers of paper towels.
- Softened Cream Cheese: Cold cream cheese will result in a lumpy filling. Ensure it’s truly at room temperature.
- Firm Crust: Press the graham cracker crust down very firmly. This helps it hold together when you cut the bars.
- Patience for Setting: No-bake bars rely on chilling time to set up properly. Don’t rush it! A minimum of 4 hours is recommended, but overnight is even better.
- Clean Cuts: For neat bars, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean with a damp cloth between each cut.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
These No-Bake Pineapple Coconut Bars are best served chilled, making them a fantastic refreshing dessert. They are perfect on their own, but if you want to elevate them, a light drizzle of white chocolate or a small dollop of whipped cream could be a nice addition. They pair wonderfully with a glass of iced tea, a cold sparkling water, or even a tropical fruit smoothie for a complete summer vibe.
Storage and Leftover Tips
Store any leftover No-Bake Pineapple Coconut Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Because they contain dairy, they must be kept chilled. Freezing is generally not recommended as the texture of the cream cheese filling can change upon thawing, becoming a bit grainy.
More Recipes You Will Love
If you enjoyed the simplicity and deliciousness of these No-Bake Pineapple Coconut Bars, you’ll definitely want to try these other fantastic no-bake treats and simple desserts:
- For a sweet and satisfying treat you can eat right from the bowl, try This Edible Cookie Dough Is My Favorite No-Bake Treat For Late Night Cravings.
- If you’re a chocolate lover looking for a quick fix, my This Brownie Batter Dip Is My Favorite No-Bake Dessert For Instant Chocolate Cravings is pure bliss.
- For a healthier no-bake snack perfect for keeping on hand, check out These No-Bake Monster Cookie Energy Balls Are My Favorite Snack To Keep On Hand.
- Another great no-bake option for a quick and easy snack are These No-Bake Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars Are My Favorite Snack To Keep On Hand.
- And for an incredibly simple yet decadent no-bake pie, don’t miss This No-Bake Oreo Cream Pie Is My Favorite Quick Dessert Hack.
Final Thoughts
These No-Bake Pineapple Coconut Bars are the ultimate easy-breezy dessert for those times you want something sweet and satisfying without turning on the oven. They’re tropical, creamy, and wonderfully refreshing—a true taste of sunshine in every bite. Give them a try, and watch how quickly they disappear!
What are your favorite no-bake desserts for warm weather? Share your ideas in the comments below! And don’t forget to follow Chef Maniac for more delightful recipes and kitchen inspiration.
Leave a Reply