Buttery Coconut Bars are a nostalgic, chewy, and delicious dessert that combines a rich, buttery crust with a sweet coconut filling. These bars are dangerously addictive and perfect for any occasion, whether you’re making them for a family gathering, potluck, or just a sweet treat for yourself.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistibly Chewy & Buttery – The combination of the crisp crust and soft coconut filling makes every bite perfect.
- Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and easy steps make this recipe beginner-friendly.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for parties, bake sales, or afternoon snacks.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – These bars taste even better the next day!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Filling:
- 3 eggs, at room temperature
- 1 1/2 cups brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups shredded coconut
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
1. Prepare the Crust
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, melted butter, and salt until well mixed.
- Press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
2. Make the Coconut Filling
- While the crust is baking, whisk together eggs, brown sugar, vanilla extract, flour, baking powder, and salt until smooth.
- Stir in shredded coconut, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
3. Bake the Bars
- Pour the filling over the warm crust and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is set and lightly golden.
4. Cool & Serve
- Let the bars cool completely before slicing into squares.
- Enjoy as-is or with a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12–16 bars
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Baking Time: 35–40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Variations
- Nutty Crunch – Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling.
- Chocolate Drizzle – Melt chocolate and drizzle over the bars for a decadent touch.
- Lemon Twist – Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest for a citrusy boost.
- Gluten-Free – Use a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Storage/Reheating
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Wrap bars individually and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Let frozen bars thaw at room temperature before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I use sweetened coconut instead of unsweetened?
Yes, but the bars will be sweeter. Reduce the sugar slightly if using sweetened coconut.
2. How do I make the bars extra chewy?
Don’t overbake! Removing them when they are just set will keep them chewy.
3. Can I substitute white sugar for brown sugar?
You can, but brown sugar adds moisture and depth of flavor.
4. What’s the best way to cut these bars cleanly?
Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat slices.
5. Can I add chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Stir in ½ cup of mini chocolate chips for a chocolate-coconut twist.
6. Can I use coconut flour instead of all-purpose flour?
No, coconut flour absorbs too much moisture and will alter the texture.
7. How do I prevent the crust from becoming too hard?
Avoid overbaking the crust—just bake until lightly golden before adding the filling.
8. Can I make these bars dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative.
9. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger pan and adjust the baking time slightly.
10. What can I serve these with?
They pair perfectly with coffee, tea, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
Conclusion
Buttery Coconut Bars are the ultimate chewy, buttery, and coconut-packed dessert that’s sure to disappear quickly. Whether you’re making them for a party, a family treat, or just because you love coconut, these bars are easy to whip up and absolutely delicious. Try them today, but be warned—you might not have leftovers!
Print
Buttery Coconut Bars
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12–16 bars
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Buttery Coconut Bars are rich, chewy, and packed with coconut flavor, featuring a buttery shortbread crust and a sweet, golden coconut filling. Perfect for parties, bake sales, or a cozy dessert, these bars are easy to make and even better the next day!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup butter, melted
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Filling:
- 3 eggs, at room temperature
- 1 ½ cups brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups shredded coconut
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, melted butter, and salt until well mixed.
- Press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
2. Make the Coconut Filling
- While the crust is baking, whisk together eggs, brown sugar, vanilla extract, flour, baking powder, and salt until smooth.
- Stir in shredded coconut, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
3. Bake the Bars
- Pour the filling over the warm crust and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is set and lightly golden.
4. Cool & Serve
- Let the bars cool completely before slicing into squares.
- Enjoy as-is or with a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch!
Notes
- Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Melt ½ cup chocolate chips and drizzle over the bars.
- Lemon Twist: Add 1 teaspoon lemon zest for a citrusy boost.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
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