If You Like Piña Coladas… You’ll LOVE These Cheesecake Bars!
Do you love the tropical flavors of a classic Piña Colada? Do you also happen to have a deep love for cheesecake? Well, my friend, I have the perfect dessert for you – Piña Colada Cheesecake Bars!
These Piña Colada Cheesecake Bars are everything you love about the classic tropical cocktail, but in dreamy, creamy cheesecake form.
With a buttery graham cracker crust, a rich pineapple-coconut cheesecake filling, and a hint of lime for that perfect zing, these bars are a vacation in every bite!
Why You’ll Love It
How to Make It
Now that I’ve got your tropical cravings in full swing, let’s get to the fun part—making these dreamy Piña Colada Cheesecake Bars!
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup shredded coconut (optional, for extra texture)
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 2 tbsp sugar
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup crushed pineapple, drained well
- ¼ cup full-fat coconut milk or cream
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (helps stabilize the filling)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp lime zest (optional, but highly recommended!)
For the Topping (Optional, but Delicious!)
- Whipped cream
- Toasted coconut flakes
- Maraschino cherries
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Crust
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl. Press into the bottom of the pan.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.
2️⃣ Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition.
- Stir in crushed pineapple, coconut milk, cornstarch, vanilla, and lime zest. Mix until fully incorporated.
3️⃣ Bake
- Pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust, smoothing the top.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center has a slight jiggle.
- Turn off the oven and let the bars cool in the oven with the door slightly open for 15 minutes to prevent cracking.
4️⃣ Chill & Serve
- Let cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best).
- Cut into squares, top with whipped cream, toasted coconut, and cherries if desired.
Extra Variation: Rum-Infused Flavor (Without the Booze!)
If you want that signature piña colada taste without actual rum, just add ½ to 1 teaspoon of rum extract to the cheesecake filling. Rum extract does contain a small amount of alcohol (similar to vanilla extract), but since only a tiny amount is used and it bakes off in the oven, the final dessert remains non-alcoholic. If you prefer a completely alcohol-free option, swap in ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract + ¼ teaspoon of coconut extract for a similar effect.
Other Variations to Try
🍪 Toasted Coconut Crust (For Extra Crunch and Flavor!)
Want to take the crust up a notch? Toast the shredded coconut before mixing it into the graham cracker crust!
How to do it:
- Spread the shredded coconut on a baking sheet and toast at 325°F (163°C) for about 5 minutes, stirring halfway, until golden brown.
- Let it cool slightly, then mix it into the crust ingredients before pressing into the pan.
This little tweak adds a deeper coconut flavor and a nice texture to every bite!
🍍 Pineapple Glaze Drizzle (For an Extra Burst of Pineapple!)
A simple pineapple glaze drizzled over the chilled cheesecake bars takes the tropical vibes to the next level.
How to make it:
- ½ cup pineapple juice
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (to thicken)
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, whisk the pineapple juice and cornstarch until smooth.
- Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens (about 3-4 minutes).
- Remove from heat, stir in powdered sugar, and let cool.
- Drizzle over the chilled cheesecake bars before serving for a beautiful, fruity finish.
Storage Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freeze (without toppings) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Perfect Pairings
- Enjoy these bars with a Virgin Piña Colada or Pineapple Coconut Sparkler for the ultimate tropical experience.
- Pair with a coconut-infused coffee for a fun contrast.
These Piña Colada Cheesecake Bars are the perfect way to bring a little tropical sweetness into your day! 🍍🥥 I’d love to hear how yours turn out—did you stick to the recipe or add your own twist? Drop a comment below and let me know.
Cheers!
