Rich, chewy, and irresistibly delicious, these buttery coconut bars combine a melt-in-your-mouth shortbread crust with a sweet, toasted coconut topping. The contrast between the crisp base and the chewy topping makes each bite satisfying and packed with flavor.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love how simple yet indulgent these coconut bars are. The buttery shortbread crust adds a delicate crunch, while the coconut topping brings a chewy, caramelized sweetness. They’re easy to make with pantry staples, and the recipe can be customized with nuts for extra texture. Plus, they store well, making them perfect for sharing or keeping on hand for a sweet treat.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the crust:
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
For the coconut topping:
3 large eggs
1 cup light brown sugar, packed
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups shredded coconut, sweetened or unsweetened
1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms. Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan.
Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
Stir in the flour, shredded coconut, and nuts (if using) until well combined.
Spread the coconut mixture evenly over the pre-baked crust.
Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and set.
Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing into squares.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 16 bars
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Calories: 280 kcal per bar
Variations
Nut-Free Option: Skip the pecans or walnuts for a smooth, chewy texture without the crunch.
Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some dark or milk chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled bars for a rich finish.
Coconut-Lime Twist: Add a teaspoon of lime zest to the coconut topping for a refreshing citrus flavor.
Extra Crunch: Sprinkle toasted coconut on top before baking for even more texture.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for both the crust and topping to make this treat gluten-free.
Storage/Reheating
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Refrigerator: Keep in the fridge for up to a week for a firmer texture.
Freezer: Wrap the bars individually in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating: These bars don’t need reheating, but if I want them warm, I pop them in the microwave for 10 seconds.
Related Recipes:
FAQs
How do I know when the coconut topping is fully baked?
I look for a golden-brown color on top and a set texture. The bars should feel firm but still slightly soft in the center.
Can I use unsweetened coconut instead of sweetened?
Yes! If I prefer a less sweet version, unsweetened coconut works well. I sometimes add an extra tablespoon of brown sugar to balance the flavor.
What’s the best way to cut the bars cleanly?
I let them cool completely and use a sharp knife, wiping it between cuts for neat squares. Chilling them in the fridge before slicing also helps.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! I often bake them a day in advance since they taste even better once the flavors settle.
Do these bars need to be refrigerated?
They don’t have to be, but refrigeration helps keep them fresh longer, especially in warm climates.
Conclusion
These buttery coconut bars are the perfect combination of crunchy, chewy, and sweet. Whether I make them for a party, as a homemade gift, or just to satisfy a coconut craving, they never disappoint. With easy variations and great storage options, this recipe is a must-have for any dessert lover.
📖 Recipe:
Print
Buttery Coconut Bars
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these rich and chewy Buttery Coconut Bars, featuring a melt-in-your-mouth shortbread crust topped with a sweet, toasted coconut layer. These easy-to-make bars are perfect for dessert, potlucks, or gifting. Enjoy them plain or customize with nuts and chocolate for added texture and flavor!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Coconut Topping:
3 large eggs
1 cup light brown sugar, packed
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened)
1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat & Prepare:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Make the Shortbread Crust:
- In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the flour and salt until a dough forms.
- Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, until edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and set aside.
- Prepare the Coconut Topping:
- In another bowl, whisk together eggs, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
- Stir in flour, shredded coconut, and nuts (if using) until well combined.
- Bake the Bars:
- Spread the coconut mixture evenly over the pre-baked crust.
- Return to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and set.
- Cool & Serve:
- Let the bars cool completely before slicing into squares.
Notes
Nut-Free Option: Omit nuts for a smooth, chewy texture.
Chocolate Drizzle: Melt dark or milk chocolate and drizzle over cooled bars.
Coconut-Lime Twist: Add 1 teaspoon lime zest to the coconut topping for a citrusy touch.
Extra Crunch: Sprinkle toasted coconut on top before baking.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend for both the crust and topping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 16 bars
- Calories: 280 kcal
