Description
These Coconut Butter Bars feature a buttery, golden crust topped with a luscious coconut filling and a caramelized coconut topping. Perfectly baked to achieve a tender texture and rich coconut flavor, these bars are a delightful treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup butter (2 sticks), melted
Filling
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut (additional for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare baking dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Make the crust: In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, 1 cup packed brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon salt. Add 1 cup of melted butter and mix until a dough forms. Press this dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish using your hands or a spatula.
- Bake the crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 13-15 minutes or until it turns a golden color. This ensures a firm and flavorful base for the filling.
- Mix the filling: While the crust is baking, combine 1/2 cup flour, 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, 3 large eggs, 1/4 cup melted butter, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon salt, and 3 cups sweetened shredded coconut in a large mixing bowl. Stir well to blend all ingredients thoroughly.
- Assemble the bars: Once the crust is baked, pour the filling mixture evenly over it. Spread the filling into an even layer. Then sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of sweetened shredded coconut evenly on top for a crunchy and caramelized finish.
- Bake the bars: Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 25-28 minutes. The filling should be set in the middle and the coconut topping will start to brown, indicating it’s ready.
- Cool and serve: Allow the bars to cool completely in the baking dish before slicing into squares. This helps them hold their shape and enhances the flavors.
Notes
- Use sweetened shredded coconut for both the filling and the topping to achieve a rich, sweet coconut flavor.
- Ensure the bars have completely cooled before slicing to avoid crumbling.
- You can store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- For a nuttier flavor, consider adding 1/2 cup chopped nuts like macadamia or pecans into the filling.
- These bars can also be cut into bite-sized pieces for parties or gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Coconut Butter Bars, coconut dessert, sweet coconut bars, baked coconut bars, easy dessert, coconut recipes
