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
