Description
Deliciously chewy and moist coconut bars with a buttery crumbly base, topped with a sweetened shredded coconut filling and toasted coconut flakes. These bars are perfect as a sweet treat that combines rich vanilla flavor and a delightful texture contrast between the crisp base and soft coconut topping.
Ingredients
Scale
Base
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pinch kosher salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
Filling
- 3 large eggs
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 3/4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups sweetened shredded coconut
Topping
- 1/3 cup sweetened shredded coconut (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the bars after baking.
- Mix base: In a mixing bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter, light brown sugar, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, kosher salt, and 1 cup of all-purpose flour. Stir until just combined; the mixture should remain slightly crumbly.
- Bake base: Evenly press the crumbly base mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form a compact layer. Bake this base in the preheated oven for 15 minutes to set and slightly brown.
- Whisk filling: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and 3/4 cup granulated sugar until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and baking powder, then gently fold in the 1/3 cup all-purpose flour and 3 cups sweetened shredded coconut. Mix until just blended to avoid overworking.
- Bake bars: Pour the coconut filling evenly over the prebaked crust. Sprinkle the additional 1/3 cup shredded coconut evenly on top of the filling. Return the pan to the oven and bake for about 25 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges turn a light golden brown.
- Cool: Remove the baking pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan for about 1.5 to 2 hours. For a firmer texture, cool the bars at room temperature for 45 minutes, then refrigerate for 1 hour. Once cooled, slice into squares and serve cold.
Notes
- Line the baking pan with parchment paper to easily lift out the bars for slicing.
- Do not overmix the filling to maintain a tender texture.
- Letting the bars cool completely before slicing helps achieve clean cuts and optimal texture.
- Storing bars in the refrigerator helps keep them firm and fresh for several days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: coconut bars, coconut dessert, shredded coconut recipe, baked coconut bars, coconut treats
