Pineapple Lemon Dream Bars

Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
2 cups crushed pineapple, drained
1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup cornstarch
4 large egg yolks
1/2 cup lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1/4 cup shredded coconut
1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Powdered sugar for dusting
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine flour, 1/2 cup sugar, and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from oven and set aside.
In a medium saucepan, combine crushed pineapple, 1 cup sugar, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened.
In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Gradually add to the pineapple mixture, stirring constantly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until thick and smooth.
Pour the pineapple mixture over the baked crust. Sprinkle with shredded coconut and chopped nuts, if using.
Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden.
Let cool completely before cutting into bars. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 60 minutes

Kcal: 280 kcal | Servings: 16 bars