📖 Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for even baking, so don't skip this step!
2. Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan. I like to use baking spray with flour in it to avoid sticking. Trust me, nobody wants bars stuck to the pan!
3. Make the crust: In a large bowl, cream together 1 cup (2 sticks) of softened butter and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar until light and fluffy. I use an electric mixer for this, but you can do it by hand if you're feeling ambitious.
4. Add 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1/4 teaspoon of salt to the butter mixture. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the crust tough. The dough should be crumbly at this point.
5. Press the crust mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan. Use your fingers or the back of a spoon to create a smooth, even surface. Prick the crust all over with a fork to prevent it from puffing up during baking.
6. Bake the crust for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on it, as ovens vary. You want it golden but not burnt.
7. While the crust is baking, prepare the filling: In a large bowl, beat 4 large eggs until light and frothy. This usually takes a minute or two with an electric mixer.
8. Gradually add 2 cups of granulated sugar to the eggs, beating until well combined. Make sure there are no sugar lumps remaining.
9. Stir in 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Mix until just combined. Again, avoid overmixing.
10. Add one 20-ounce can of crushed pineapple (drained), 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 cup of shredded coconut to the filling mixture. Stir until everything is evenly distributed.
11. Pour the filling over the hot, pre-baked crust. Spread it evenly to cover the entire crust surface.
12. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of shredded coconut evenly over the filling. This will give the bars a beautiful toasted coconut topping.
13. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown. The center should be firm to the touch.
14. Remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. This is important to allow the filling to set properly. I know its hard to wait, but worth it!
15. Cut into bars and serve. These bars are delicious served warm or at room temperature. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.