Pina Colada Sugar Cookie Bars
A batch of these tropical Pina Colada Sugar Cookie Bars can be made and frosted in one pan. Make these easy cookie bars for summer parties and picnics.
A batch of these tropical Pina Colada Sugar Cookie Bars can be made and frosted in one pan. Make these easy cookie bars for summer parties and picnics.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup butter softened
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon coconut extract
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 1/2 cups flour
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 tablespoon pineapple juice
- 1 teaspoon rum extract
- for the frosting
- 1/2 cup toasted coconut
- for the bars
- 1 - 8 ounce can crushed pineapple drained very well (save juice)
- 4 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 24 cherries with stems patted dry
- 24 pieces dried pineapple
- Carbohydrate 35.0916126331226 g
- Cholesterol 20.4715278034129 mg
- Fat 10.3745271144224 g
- Fiber 0.886493555922837 g
- Protein 0.493158146255465 g
- Saturated Fat 7.37773472837656 g
- Serving Size 1 1 cookie bar (56g)
- Sodium 1249.30989924078 mg
- Sugar 34.2051190771998 g
- Trans Fat 0.550123285937457 g
- Calories 229 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Spray a 9x13 pan with nonstick spray.
- Beat the butter and sugars until creamy. Add the egg and extracts and beat again.
- Stir together the flour, baking powder, salt, and coconut. Slowly add to the sugar mixture and beat until mixed in.
- Press the cookie dough in the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 14 minutes.
- Remove and let cool completely.
- Beat the butter, salt, and pineapple until creamy. Add the sugar and pineapple juice slowly and beat until creamy again. Spread on top of the cooled bars.
- Spread the shredded coconut on top of the frosting.
- Sprinkle the toasted coconut on top.
- Cut the cookies into 24 bars and top each one with a cherry and pineapple piece.
- Store in a loosely sealed container.
Pina Colada Sugar Cookie Bars: A Taste of Paradise
As a busy working mom, finding time to bake often feels like a luxury. But sometimes, the craving for something sweet and delicious is just too strong to ignore. That's where these Pina Colada Sugar Cookie Bars come in. They’re quick, easy, and taste incredibly decadent – a perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and tropical flavors that transport you straight to a sunny beach, even if you're stuck in the office.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Everything is made in one pan, minimizing cleanup and maximizing enjoyment. The cookie base is buttery and subtly sweet, providing the perfect foundation for the creamy, pineapple-infused frosting. The addition of toasted coconut adds a delightful crunch, while the maraschino cherries and pineapple pieces bring a burst of vibrant color and flavor. I love to make a big batch of these bars for potlucks, summer barbecues, or simply to brighten up a weeknight. They're always a hit, disappearing faster than I can say "Pina Colada!"
Why this recipe works for busy people:
- One-pan wonder: Minimal cleanup – a huge plus for busy schedules.
- Simple ingredients: Most ingredients are pantry staples, or easily found at the grocery store.
- Make-ahead friendly: The bars can be made ahead of time and stored for a few days, perfect for meal prepping or preparing for parties.
- Crowd-pleasing flavor: The taste is irresistible, making them a guaranteed hit with everyone.
Tips and variations:
- For a richer flavor: Use high-quality butter and extracts.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet treat, reduce the amount of sugar in both the cookie base and the frosting.
- Get creative with toppings: Feel free to experiment with different toppings, like chopped macadamia nuts, dried mango, or even a sprinkle of sea salt.
- Make it a bar: Cut them into squares for a more rustic look. You can even add some crushed pineapple onto the cookie bars before they go into the oven.
- Gluten-free option: Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend.
Beyond the convenience, these Pina Colada Sugar Cookie Bars offer a delightful sensory experience. The aroma alone is enough to transport you to a tropical paradise. The combination of textures – the soft, chewy cookie base, the creamy frosting, and the crunchy coconut – is simply divine. And let's not forget the beautiful colors: the golden brown of the cookie, the creamy white of the frosting, and the vibrant pops of color from the cherries and pineapple. These bars are as much a feast for the eyes as they are for the taste buds.
Whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, these Pina Colada Sugar Cookie Bars are a recipe you'll want to keep in your repertoire. They're versatile, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. So, go ahead, treat yourself – and your loved ones – to a taste of paradise!
Don't forget to share your creations with me on social media! I'd love to see your delicious Pina Colada Sugar Cookie Bars. Happy baking!
