How to Make Hawaiian Cheesecake Bars
1. Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking pan to form an even crust. Bake for about 8-10 minutes until golden. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
2. Make the cheesecake filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add sugar and continue beating until well combined. Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each. Stir in vanilla extract, crushed pineapple, and shredded coconut until evenly distributed.
3. Assemble and bake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and spread evenly. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is just slightly jiggly.
4. Cool and chill: Remove from oven and let cool completely at room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight to set fully.
5. Add the finishing touch: Before serving, sprinkle toasted shredded coconut over the top for an extra burst of flavor and texture.
Tips for Perfect Hawaiian Cheesecake Bars
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Drain the pineapple well: Excess moisture can make the bars soggy. Use a fine mesh strainer or paper towel to remove as much juice as possible.
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Softened cream cheese is key: For a silky smooth texture, make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing.
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Toasting coconut: Toast shredded coconut on a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, stirring frequently until golden and fragrant. This adds a wonderful nutty flavor.
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Don’t overbake: The bars should still have a slight jiggle in the center when you take them out — they will firm up as they chill.
Serving Suggestions
Hawaiian Cheesecake Bars make a delightful tropical dessert perfect for any occasion. Serve them chilled, straight from the fridge, or add a dollop of whipped cream and a fresh pineapple slice for extra flair. They’re ideal for summer gatherings, luau-themed parties, or anytime you want a sweet escape.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Hawaiian Cheesecake Bars are an easy, no-fuss dessert that combines creamy cheesecake decadence with bright, tropical flavors. They’re portable, sliceable, and loved by kids and adults alike. The perfect balance of sweet pineapple, rich cream cheese, and toasty coconut makes them stand out on any dessert table.
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