Coconut Pineapple Bites are like little tropical treats! They are chewy, fruity, and bring sunshine to your snack time. Made with fresh pineapple and sweet coconut, they taste like summer?
These bites are super fun to make—just mix, roll, and enjoy! I love popping them in the fridge for a refreshing treat anytime. Who doesn’t want a taste of the tropics without leaving home? 🌴🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple gives the best flavor, but you can use canned pineapple if needed. Just make sure to drain it well, as the juice can make the mixture too watery.
Coconut milk: Look for full-fat coconut milk for richness. If you’re dairy-free, this is a fantastic option. You can substitute almond milk or oat milk, but the texture will be different.
Grated coconut: You can choose sweetened or unsweetened grated coconut based on your sweetness preference. If you can’t find grated coconut, shredded coconut or even desiccated coconut works too.
Sugar: Granulated sugar is standard here. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using coconut sugar or maple syrup, but adjust the amount to taste.
Condensed milk: Condensed milk adds sweetness and creaminess. If you want to keep things vegan, coconut condensed milk is available or you can simply skip the drizzle.
How Do I Get the Mixture to Thicken Properly?
Achieving the right thickness is crucial for this recipe. The key is to cook the mixture over medium heat while stirring constantly. This helps activate the cornstarch evenly.
- Mix the chopped pineapple, coconut milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt in the saucepan until smooth.
- Cook for about 8-10 minutes. Look for a pudding-like consistency—this means it’s ready!
- Don’t rush this step—if you’re not patient, the mixture might stay runny, which isn’t ideal for your bites.
How to Make Coconut Pineapple Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Base:
- 2 cups fresh pineapple, finely chopped
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 cup grated coconut (sweetened or unsweetened, depending on preference)
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup toasted coconut flakes
- 1/4 cup condensed milk (optional, for drizzling on top)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and an additional 2 hours to chill in the fridge. You’ll spend a few minutes mixing the ingredients and another 8-10 minutes cooking everything until it thickens. After that, let it cool and set in the fridge. It’s worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mixture:
In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped pineapple, coconut milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Make sure to mix everything well until the cornstarch is fully dissolved. This will help to thicken your mixture nicely.
2. Cook the Mixture:
Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly while cooking until the mixture thickens and has a pudding-like consistency. This should take about 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on it to avoid any lumps!
3. Add Flavor and Coconut:
Once the mixture has thickened, take the saucepan off the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and the grated coconut, mixing until everything is well combined. This gives your bites a delightful coconut flavor!
4. Transfer to Dish:
Pour the mixture into a greased square or rectangular baking dish (about 8×8 inches). Use a spatula to spread it evenly so the bites will be uniform when cut.
5. Cool and Chill:
Let the dish cool to room temperature. Once it’s cool, cover it and place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to allow it to set properly. This will make cutting much easier!
6. Cut into Bites:
After the mixture has set, remove it from the fridge and cut it into bite-sized squares. You can make them as big or small as you like—just have fun with it!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Place the coconut pineapple bites on a serving plate. If you want to add a little extra sweetness, drizzle some condensed milk on top. Don’t forget to sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes for an extra crunch and flavor. Enjoy your delicious sweet treat!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use canned pineapple! Just make sure to drain it well to avoid excess liquid. This will help maintain the right consistency of the mixture, so it thickens properly.
What If I Don’t Have Coconut Milk?
No problem! You can substitute coconut milk with regular milk or another plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. Keep in mind that the flavor will be different, but it will still taste delicious!
How to Store Leftover Coconut Pineapple Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen! Just wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! This recipe is already vegan-friendly if you skip the optional condensed milk drizzle. You can even use a sweetener like maple syrup instead of sugar if you prefer. Just keep the ratios in mind for the consistency!
