
Whenever I need a quick sweet fix that's also refreshing, I whip up Coconut Pineapple Bites. You don’t even need to fire up the oven. The mix of tangy pineapple with smooth coconut feels like summer in every bite. It’s my grab-and-go treat for sunny afternoons or if I want a lighter snack.
Last summer I started making these to stay cool while hanging outside with friends. Someone grabs one, then before you know it, there’s nothing left but an empty plate!
Luscious Ingredients
- Shredded coconut: Pick sweetened for dessert vibes or unsweetened to keep it lighter. Go for stuff with no weird fillers.
- Fresh pineapple: Look for one that smells super sweet and is golden at the bottom. That’s your ticket to juicy, tasty chunks.
- Fresh mint leaves (optional) for garnish: Toss a few on top for pretty color and a bit of coolness in every bite.
- Honey or maple syrup (optional): If you like things extra sweet, local honey gives it flowers, maple syrup makes it warm and cozy.
- Greek yogurt (optional): Stir some in for a creamy layer and richer flavor—full-fat gives you the smoothest blend.
Simple Step-by-Step
- Garnish and Serve:
- Pop them out of the fridge, add a little mint if you’ve got it, and you’re ready to wow your crew with the extra color and fresh kick.
- Arrange and Chill:
- Put your coconut-covered pineapple bits in a single layer on a platter or baking sheet. Slide into the fridge for at least half an hour so they get perfectly cold and set.
- Coat the Pineapple:
- Grab a pineapple piece and dip or roll it in the coconut mix. Use a fork if you like, but just make sure every surface’s covered. Press gently so the good stuff sticks.
- Mix the Coconut Coating:
- In a bowl, mix shredded coconut with yogurt and honey. Give it a good stir so the coconut gets nice and coated and everything sticks together but doesn’t drip everywhere.
- Prepare the Pineapple:
- Slice up your pineapple into nice, small pieces. Use a sharp knife to peel and ditch the core so you’re just left with sweet fruit.

Super ripe pineapples make these bites shine, honestly—it brings all the sweetness you need. No sugar required unless you want a candy vibe. From weekend brunches to pool snack time, these always remind me of good laughs and fun with friends.
Smart Storage
Keep any leftovers chilled in a sealed container. They’re best within two days—coconut gets a little soft the longer you wait. For the best taste and crunch, eat right after they’ve cooled. If you’re getting ready ahead of time, leave the coconut bit for last and finish up right before serving.
Subbing Stuff In
Swap out the yogurt with coconut cream or leave it out if you want something lighter. Agave or a sugar-free syrup keeps things vegan or low sugar friendly. If you don’t have fresh pineapple handy, canned works—just dry the pieces well first.

How to Serve
These go down great for a post-grill dessert or tossed in lunchboxes for a sweet bite. Try skewering them for a pretty party look, or just stick some toothpicks in for easy grabbing. They’re also awesome with a fruit salad or next to your brunch favorites for a tropical lift.
Tropical Inspiration
Pineapple and coconut are the stars in plenty of dishes from the Caribbean to Southeast Asia. Here, you get vibes of pina colada and those sweet island treats—makes any day feel a bit sunnier, whatever the weather.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
Yep, you can swap in canned pineapple. Just drain the juice and pat it dry so it doesn't get too soggy before covering with coconut.
- → Is Greek yogurt necessary for this snack?
Greek yogurt makes things rich and creamy, but you can totally leave it out or trade for any plant-based yogurt if you want it dairy-free.
- → What type of coconut works best?
Any shredded coconut works, sweetened or not—it’s just up to how sweet you like things.
- → How long should I chill the bites before serving?
Stick ‘em in the fridge for half an hour or longer, so they firm up and taste even better together.
- → Are there other garnish ideas besides mint leaves?
You could throw on some basil, grate a little lime zest, or even splash some melted chocolate for a new spin.