Once they tasted it, my neighbor rushed over to get the recipe from me.

Pineapple Coconut Delight Bars are a tropical escape in dessert form, perfect for those days when you need a little sunshine in your life. This recipe is inspired by my love for the classic pairing of pineapple and coconut, a duo that never fails to remind me of warm, breezy vacations. These bars are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, making them a great choice for busy weekdays or a weekend treat. Whether you're hosting a gathering or just want to indulge in a sweet snack, these bars are sure to impress.

These Pineapple Coconut Delight Bars are delightful on their own, but if you're looking to create a more complete dessert experience, consider serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A fresh fruit salad with tropical fruits like mango and kiwi would also complement the bars beautifully. For a refreshing beverage pairing, try a chilled glass of iced tea or a fruity mocktail.

Servings: 12

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 cup shredded coconut, divided
1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.

In a bowl, mix together the flour, melted butter, and granulated sugar until crumbly. Press this mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form the crust.

Sprinkle half of the shredded coconut evenly over the crust.

In another bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple.

Spread the pineapple cream mixture over the crust and coconut layer.

Sprinkle the remaining shredded coconut on top.

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the coconut is toasted.

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. Serve and enjoy!

For a nutty twist, add a handful of chopped macadamia nuts or almonds to the crust mixture. If you prefer a more citrusy flavor, add a teaspoon of lime or lemon zest to the cream cheese filling. For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. You can also experiment with different types of coconut, such as toasted coconut flakes, to add a different texture and flavor.