Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Dessert: A Tropical Treat for Every Occasion

Hawaiian pineapple coconut dessert is a delightful treat that transports you straight to the sunny shores of the islands with every bite. This tropical dessert combines the sweet, juicy flavor of ripe pineapples with the creamy richness of coconut, creating a harmonious blend that is both refreshing and indulgent. The origins of this dessert can be traced back to the rich culinary traditions of Hawaii, where fresh fruits and coconut are staples in many dishes.

What I love most about this Hawaiian pineapple coconut dessert is its incredible taste and texture. The vibrant sweetness of the pineapple pairs perfectly with the smooth, velvety coconut, making it a favorite among friends and family. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for gatherings or simply to satisfy a sweet craving. Whether served chilled or at room temperature, this dessert is sure to impress and leave everyone asking for seconds. So, let’s dive into this tropical delight and bring a taste of Hawaii to your kitchen!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup chopped macadamia nuts (optional)
• Whipped cream for serving (optional)
• Fresh pineapple slices for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is an important step to ensure that your dessert bakes evenly and comes out perfectly fluffy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar. I like to use an electric mixer for this step, but you can also do it by hand with a whisk. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
3. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract. The mixture should be smooth and creamy at this point.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together to ensure they are evenly distributed.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Start with a third of the flour mixture, then add half of the milk, followed by another third of the flour, the remaining milk, and finally the last of the flour. This method helps to keep the batter smooth and prevents lumps.
6. Once everything is combined, gently fold in the crushed pineapple, shredded coconut, and chopped macadamia nuts (if using). Make sure not to overmix; just fold until everything is evenly incorporated.

Baking the Dessert

1. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This will help prevent the dessert from sticking to the pan.
2. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. I like to give the dish a gentle shake to level the batter.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time to avoid overbaking.
4. Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. This cooling time allows the dessert to set a bit before serving.

Assembling and Serving

1. After the dessert has cooled slightly, you can cut it into squares or rectangles. I usually cut them into about 12 pieces, but you can adjust the size based on your preference.
2. If you want to add a touch of elegance, serve each piece with a dollop of whipped cream on top. This adds a nice creaminess that complements the tropical flavors beautifully.
3. For an extra special touch, garnish with fresh pineapple slices or a sprinkle of additional shredded coconut. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds to the tropical vibe of the dessert.
4. Enjoy your Hawaiian pineapple coconut dessert with friends and family! It’s perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or just a sweet treat at home.

Storage Tips

1. If you have any leftovers (which is rare, but it happens!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week.
2. To freeze, wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them up in the microwave for a few seconds.

Variations

1. For a chocolate twist,

Conclusion:

In summary, this Hawaiian pineapple coconut dessert is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to bring a taste of the tropics into their kitchen. The combination of sweet, juicy pineapple and creamy coconut creates a delightful harmony that is both refreshing and indulgent. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, celebrating a special occasion, or simply treating yourself to something sweet, this dessert is sure to impress your family and friends. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of decadence. You can also experiment with variations by adding a sprinkle of toasted coconut on top or incorporating other tropical fruits like mango or passion fruit for a unique twist. I encourage you to give this Hawaiian pineapple coconut dessert a try and share your experience with me! I would love to hear how it turned out for you and any creative variations you came up with. So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and let the flavors of the islands transport you to a sunny paradise. Happy baking!

Print