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 for any occasion, whether it’s a summer BBQ, a birthday party, or simply a cozy night in. They combine the tropical flavors of piña colada into easy-to-make bars that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Tropical Flavor: Enjoy the taste of piña colada in a bar form with sweet pineapple and creamy coconut.
• Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time and simple steps, these bars are quick to make even for beginners.
• Perfect for Sharing: Cut them into squares for gatherings or potlucks; they are sure to impress your guests.
• No Baking Skills Required: The straightforward instructions make it accessible for anyone to whip up these delicious bars.
• Versatile Dessert: These bars can be enjoyed as an after-dinner treat or as a snack during the day.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Pina Colada Seven Layer Bars, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick cooking spray
• 8-by-8-inch baking pan
• Aluminum foil
• Microwave-safe bowl
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick cooking spray: Ensures easy removal of the bars from the pan without sticking.
• Baking pan: The right size is crucial for even baking and achieving the perfect bar texture.
• Aluminum foil: Lining the pan makes clean-up easier and helps prevent over-baking.
• Spatula: Ideal for evenly spreading ingredients and ensuring a smooth crust layer.

Ingredients

To make these delightful Pina Colada Seven Layer Bars, you will need the following 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 (175°C). Line an 8-by-8-inch baking pan with aluminum foil and spray it with non-stick cooking spray. This step is crucial; lining the pan will make it easier to remove the bars later.

Step 2: Melt the Butter

In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter in the microwave 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

Turn this mixture out into your prepared baking pan. Use a spatula or your fingertips to press down firmly until you have an even, smooth crust layer across the bottom. It may seem thin, but that’s perfectly fine!

Step 5: Add Layered Ingredients

Evenly sprinkle crushed pineapple on top of the crust. Next, add halved cherries, white chocolate chips, and shredded coconut flakes over this layer.

Step 6: Drizzle Sweetened Condensed Milk

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

Step 7: Bake Your Bars

Bake in your preheated oven for about 30 to 34 minutes. Look for lightly golden edges and bubbling in the center. Keep an eye on them during the last ten minutes; if needed, tent with foil to prevent burning.

Step 8: Cool Before Serving

Remove from oven and place on a wire rack. Allow bars to cool in the pan for at least two hours or overnight before slicing them into squares. Once cooled, they will firm up nicely while retaining their soft texture!

How to Serve Pina Colada Seven Layer Bars

These delicious Pina Colada Seven Layer Bars are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a tropical-themed party or just looking for a sweet treat, these bars can be served in various delightful ways.

Individual Portions

• Serve each bar cut into squares for an easy grab-and-go dessert option.

With Fresh Fruit

• Pair the bars with slices of fresh pineapple or strawberries to enhance the tropical flavors.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra creaminess and flavor.

With a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Serve warm bars with a scoop of coconut or vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the bars on a colorful platter alongside other tropical desserts for a stunning display.

How to Perfect Pina Colada Seven Layer Bars

Making these bars is simple, but small adjustments can make a big difference in their texture and flavor.

• Use fresh ingredients: Using fresh crushed pineapple instead of canned can elevate the taste significantly.
• Ensure even baking: Rotate your baking pan halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
• Watch the baking time: Keep an eye on the bars in the last few minutes to prevent over-baking and burning the coconut.
• Cool completely before slicing: Allowing them to cool fully will help achieve clean cuts and better texture.
• Store properly: Keep leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for optimal freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Pina Colada Seven Layer Bars

Pair these tropical treats with some complementary side dishes to create an unforgettable dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Tropical Fruit Salad
   A mix of mango, kiwi, and berries adds freshness and balances sweetness.
2. Coconut Sorbet
   This light, refreshing dessert enhances the coconut flavor in the bars.
3. Key Lime Pie
   The tartness of key lime pie contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the bars.
4. Grilled Pineapple
   Grilling brings out the natural sugars in pineapple, making it a perfect match.
5. Vanilla Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruits for a healthy side option.
6. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries
   These sweet treats add elegance and richness alongside the fruity bars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding mistakes while making Pina Colada Seven Layer Bars can improve your outcome significantly. Here are some common pitfalls to watch for:

• Using wet ingredients improperly: Ensure that the crushed pineapple is drained very well. Excess moisture can lead to soggy bars.
• Neglecting to line the pan: Always line your baking pan with aluminum foil and spray it with cooking spray. This makes it easier to remove the bars later and simplifies cleanup.
• Overbaking the bars: Keep a close eye on the baking process, especially in the last few minutes. Overbaking can cause the coconut to burn and ruin the flavor.
• Skipping cooling time: Allowing the bars to cool completely is crucial. They will firm up as they cool, making slicing easier and improving texture.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use proper measuring techniques, especially for ingredients like sweetened condensed milk and coconut. This ensures the balance of flavors and textures in your bars.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Pina Colada Seven Layer Bars in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Freezing Pina Colada Seven Layer Bars

• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap, then place them in a resealable freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating Pina Colada Seven Layer Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, wrap bars in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place a bar on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 10-15 seconds. Check if warmed through.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes or until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Pina Colada Seven Layer Bars:

Can I make Pina Colada Seven Layer Bars ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare these bars a day ahead or even freeze them for longer storage.

What if I can’t find white chocolate chips?

You can substitute white chocolate chips with dairy-free chocolate chips or even skip them for a lighter version.

How do I customize my Pina Colada Seven Layer Bars?

Feel free to add nuts like macadamia or cashews, or mix different fruits such as mango or banana for a twist!

Are there any alternatives to sweetened condensed milk?

You can use coconut cream or homemade condensed milk alternatives if you prefer a dairy-free option.

Final Thoughts

Pina Colada Seven Layer Bars are a delightful treat that brings tropical flavors right to your kitchen. Their versatility allows you to customize with various fruits or nuts based on your preference. Try making these delicious bars today and enjoy their sweet, summery taste!