Pina Colada Seven Layer Bars

🍍🍒🏝️ Eat your piña colada rather than drinking it with these no-mixer bars that taste TROPICAL! Pineapple, coconut, white chocolate, and cherries! The Pina Colada Seven Layer Bars are a delightful treat perfect for parties, picnics, or simply as a sweet escape at home. Their unique combination of tropical flavors makes them a standout dessert that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Tropical Flavor Explosion: Enjoy the essence of a piña colada in a dessert form featuring pineapple and coconut.
• Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal effort with just a few simple steps.
• Versatile Treat: Great for any occasion – whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual family dessert.
• No-Bake Hassle: No need for complex baking techniques; just layer and bake!
• Perfect for Sharing: Cut into squares, these bars are easy to serve and share with friends and family.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making these delicious bars, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking pan (8×8-inch)
• Aluminum foil
• Cooking spray
• Microwave-safe bowl
• Spatula
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking pan: Ensures even baking and easy removal of the bars once cooled.
• Aluminum foil: Helps line the pan for easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
• Microwave-safe bowl: Perfect for melting ingredients quickly without needing to use the stove.

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup butter (melted)
• 3/4 cup graham cracker crumbs
• one 8-ounce can crushed pineapple (drained extremely well)
• heaping 1/2 cup maraschino cherries (halved)
• 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut flakes (measured loosely and not packed)
• two-thirds of one 14-ounce can sweetened condensed milk (just eyeball it)

How to Make Pina Colada Seven Layer Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line an 8-by-8-inch baking pan with aluminum foil and spray it with cooking spray. This step is crucial as it makes cleanup much easier.

Step 2: Melt the Butter

In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Heat it for about 1 minute on high power until fully melted.

Step 3: Combine Crust Ingredients

Add the graham cracker crumbs to the melted butter. Toss lightly with a fork until all crumbs are evenly coated.

Step 4: Form the Crust Layer

Turn the mixture out into your prepared baking pan. Use a spatula or your fingertips to press down firmly, creating an even crust layer across the bottom.

Step 5: Add Layers of Flavor

Evenly sprinkle the crushed pineapple over the crust, followed by halved cherries, white chocolate chips, and shredded coconut.

Step 6: Drizzle Sweetened Condensed Milk

Drizzle sweetened condensed milk evenly over all layers in the pan. This will help bind everything together during baking.

Step 7: Bake the Bars

Place the baking pan in your preheated oven. Bake for about 30 to 34 minutes, or until you see a light golden brown around the edges and bubbling in the center.

Step 8: Cool Before Serving

Once baked, take out the bars and place them on a wire rack to cool in the pan for at least two hours or overnight if possible before slicing into squares. The cooling process helps them firm up nicely.

Enjoy these delightful Pina Colada Seven Layer Bars at any gathering or as an everyday treat!

How to Serve Pina Colada Seven Layer Bars

Serving Pina Colada Seven Layer Bars is a delightful experience that enhances their tropical flavor. These bars are perfect for parties, gatherings, or simply as a sweet treat after dinner. Here are some creative ways to serve them that will impress your guests.

Pair with Fresh Fruit

• Pineapple Slices: Serve alongside fresh pineapple slices to enhance the tropical theme.
• Mixed Berries: A mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds a refreshing contrast to the bars.

Add a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Coconut Ice Cream: A scoop of coconut ice cream complements the coconut flavor in the bars.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: Classic vanilla ice cream pairs well, balancing the sweetness of the bars.

Drizzle with Sauce

• Coconut Cream Sauce: A drizzle of coconut cream sauce adds extra richness and flavor.
• Berry Compote: Serve with a warm berry compote for a tangy twist that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.

Garnish with Mint

• Fresh Mint Leaves: Top each bar with a sprig of fresh mint for an aromatic touch and vibrant color.

How to Perfect Pina Colada Seven Layer Bars

To achieve the ultimate Pina Colada Seven Layer Bars, follow these tips for the best results. Each step will ensure your bars are delicious and visually appealing.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh crushed pineapple and quality white chocolate chips enhance flavor.
• Ensure Proper Drainage: Drain the crushed pineapple thoroughly to prevent sogginess in the bars.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the bars during the last minutes of baking to avoid burning the coconut topping.
• Cool Completely Before Cutting: Allow the bars to cool for at least 2 hours before slicing; this helps them set properly.
• Store in an Airtight Container: To maintain freshness, store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature.

Best Side Dishes for Pina Colada Seven Layer Bars

Complementing your Pina Colada Seven Layer Bars with tasty side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some excellent suggestions that pair beautifully with these tropical treats.

1. Tropical Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits like mangoes, kiwi, and papaya enhances the tropical vibe.
2. Coconut Rice: This subtly sweet side dish pairs wonderfully with the flavors of the bars.
3. Chilled Macaroni Salad: A creamy macaroni salad provides a savory contrast to the sweetness of the bars.
4. Hibiscus Iced Tea: This refreshing beverage adds another layer of tropical flavor and is perfect for warm days.
5. Grilled Pineapple Skewers: Sweet grilled pineapple skewers add a smoky element that complements your dessert nicely.
6. Lemon Sorbet: The tartness of lemon sorbet balances out the sweetness of the bars while keeping it light and refreshing.
7. Cucumber Mint Salad: This light salad brings freshness and crunch, contrasting nicely with your rich dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Pina Colada Seven Layer Bars can be simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the final result. Here are some tips to help you succeed.

• Overmixing the crust: Mixing the graham cracker crumbs too much can lead to a tough crust. Mix just until combined for the best texture.
• Not draining pineapple properly: If you skip draining the crushed pineapple, your bars could end up soggy. Take the time to drain it well before adding it to the layers.
• Ignoring baking time: Keep a close eye on your bars, especially in the last 10 minutes. Overbaking can dry them out while underbaking can make them too gooey.
• Skipping cooling time: Allowing the bars to cool for at least two hours is essential. Cutting them too early will result in messy, uneven bars.
• Using packed coconut: When measuring shredded coconut, avoid packing it into the measuring cup. This leads to an overpowering coconut flavor and alters texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing Pina Colada Seven Layer Bars

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Pina Colada Seven Layer Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm bars for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual bars on medium power for 15-20 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Pina Colada Seven Layer Bars that may help you out!

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pineapple! Just make sure to finely chop it and drain any excess juice.

What if I can’t find white chocolate chips?

You can substitute with dark chocolate chips or even omit chocolate altogether for a delicious fruity treat.

How do I customize Pina Colada Seven Layer Bars?

Feel free to add nuts or swap out maraschino cherries for another fruit like mango or strawberries for a twist!

Can I make these bars vegan?

Yes! Use plant-based butter and ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free as well.

How should I serve Pina Colada Seven Layer Bars?

These bars are perfect as is, but you can also top them with whipped cream or additional fruit for extra flair!

Final Thoughts

Pina Colada Seven Layer Bars offer a delightful tropical escape right from your kitchen! Their sweet combination of pineapple and coconut makes them perfect for gatherings or simply enjoying at home. You can easily customize these bars with different fruits or toppings, allowing you to create your own signature version. Try this recipe today!