Pineapple Bars

Pineapple Bars: A Taste of Friendship and Family

The aroma of warm pineapple, the delicate crunch of the crust, the sweet glaze... these Pineapple Bars aren't just a dessert; they're a journey back in time. This recipe isn't just another baking project for me; it's a cherished heirloom passed down through generations, a tangible link to a friendship formed over shared recipes and laughter. My mother, a nurse with a heart as warm as her baked goods, received this recipe from a dear German lady she cared for. It started as a simple act of kindness, a tin of cookies and a handwritten recipe, and blossomed into a lifelong friendship, rich with shared meals and heartwarming memories. Those two women, connected through a simple act of care, built a bond as enduring as the legacy of this delightful recipe.

This recipe has become a staple in my own family. It’s a comforting classic, one that conjures warm feelings of togetherness every time I bake them. The buttery crust, the sweet and tangy pineapple filling, and the delicate glaze create a symphony of flavors that are undeniably irresistible. I often find myself making a double batch, knowing that these bars will vanish in a flash. They're perfect for potlucks, picnics, or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon with a cup of tea.

The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its simplicity but also in its adaptability. While I strictly adhere to the original recipe's measurements (a testament to its perfection!), feel free to experiment. Perhaps you'd like to add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the filling for a warm spice note, or maybe a dash of nutmeg for added depth. The possibilities are endless, each variation a new adventure in culinary creativity. And as you bake, remember the women who created this tradition, their friendship a testament to the power of shared kindness and the joy of sharing a delicious dessert.

More than just a dessert, these Pineapple Bars are a reminder of the simple things in life that matter most: friendship, family, and the enduring power of a cherished recipe.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup water
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup sour cream
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 large egg yolks
• 4 tablespoons butter (1/2 stick)
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons baking powder
• 1 20-oz can crushed pineapple
• 1/2 pound unsalted butter (2 sticks)
• 1 1-lb box confectioners' sugar
• Milk to thin glaze

Step-by-step

• To make the filling: Combine all ingredients in a saucepan. Cook until shiny and thick. Remove from the heat and let cool.
• Heat the oven to 375 degrees F.
• To make the dough: Combine the flour, baking powder, salt and granulated sugar. Cut in the butter as for pie dough. Mix in the sour cream, vanilla and egg yolks. Mix to a stiff dough. Divide in half. Roll 1 portion of dough and place it on a cookie sheet, then spread the filling on top. Roll out the other portion of dough and cover the pineapple filling with it. Dock the top dough, using a fork.
• Bake for 40 minutes. Let cool.
• To make the glaze: Combine the confectioners' sugar, vanilla, butter and enough milk to make an icing consistency. Spread the glaze on top and let harden before cutting the cake into desired size bars.
• Number of bars will depend on the size you cut them.