If you have a soft spot for coconut and crave something chewy, sweet, and utterly comforting, this Coconut Bars Recipe is going to become your new best friend. These bars combine that irresistible buttery base with heaps of shredded coconut, creating a luscious treat that feels both nostalgic and fresh. Whether you’re bringing a dish to a potluck, looking for a quick dessert, or just want a simple homemade snack that feels special, these coconut bars deliver every time. Trust me, once you try this Coconut Bars Recipe, it’s going to become a staple in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the magic of these coconut bars comes down to a handful of simple, everyday ingredients that pack a flavorful punch. Each one plays a key role, from building texture to enhancing the sweet, tropical flavor that makes this Coconut Bars Recipe so addictive.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted): Provides a rich, creamy base that keeps the bars tender and chewy.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens and helps create that golden crust on the edges.
- Large eggs (2): Bind everything together and add moisture for a perfect chewiness.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Boosts the overall flavor with warm, aromatic notes.
- Sweetened shredded coconut (1 1/2 cups): The star of the show, delivering unmistakable coconut flavor and chewy texture.
- All-purpose flour (1 cup): Provides structure while keeping the bars soft and tender.
- Baking powder (1/2 teaspoon): Helps the bars rise slightly without losing their dense texture.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
How to Make Coconut Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), and either grease or line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. This prep step ensures your bars come out cleanly and bake evenly.
Step 2: Mix Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter and granulated sugar. This helps dissolve the sugar slightly for a smooth batter and kickstarts the caramel-like richness of the finished bars.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. The eggs add moisture and structure, while the vanilla takes the flavor profile from simple to sublime.
Step 4: Incorporate Coconut
Fold in the sweetened shredded coconut until it’s evenly distributed. This is the moment the Coconut Bars Recipe really starts to come alive with its trademark chewy texture and coconut flair.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures your leavening agent and seasoning are evenly dispersed, avoiding any clumps.
Step 6: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want the batter tender and soft, not tough.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Spread the batter evenly in your prepared pan and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Look for lightly golden edges and a firm center that’s set but still moist. This is the sweet spot for chewy, soft bars.
Step 8: Cool and Slice
Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing into squares. Letting them chill helps maintain their shape and makes them easier to handle.
How to Serve Coconut Bars Recipe
Garnishes
While these bars are wonderful on their own, a simple garnish can elevate their look and taste. Try sprinkling a few more shredded coconut flakes on top, or drizzle some melted dark or white chocolate once the bars have cooled. For a fresh twist, a light dusting of powdered sugar or a few toasted coconut flakes can add extra crunch and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
Coconut Bars pair beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. Serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert, or with fresh berries to balance the sweetness. For a cozy touch, a cup of hot coffee or chai tea complements the warm vanilla and coconut notes perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For get-togethers or holiday parties, cut the bars into bite-sized squares and arrange them on a decorative platter with tropical leaves or fresh fruit garnishes. Alternatively, wrap individual bars in parchment paper tied with twine for charming homemade gifts. You can also sandwich these coconut bars with a layer of cream cheese frosting for a dessert that doubles as a conversation starter!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store your coconut bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps them soft and chewy while preserving their flavor. If your kitchen is particularly warm, the fridge is another option, but bring them to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Freezing
Want to make this Coconut Bars Recipe ahead of time? No problem! Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bring to room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating
If you prefer your coconut bars warm, gently reheat them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a low oven (around 300°F) for a few minutes. This softens the bars beautifully, bringing out their buttery richness and chewy coconut goodness.
FAQs
Can I use unsweetened shredded coconut instead of sweetened?
Yes, unsweetened shredded coconut works, but your bars will be less sweet. You might want to add a bit more sugar to balance the flavor if you prefer a sweeter bar.
Is it possible to make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum or another binding agent for best texture.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to this Coconut Bars Recipe?
Definitely! Chopped macadamia nuts, almonds, or even dried fruit like cranberries make fantastic additions. Stir them in with the coconut for extra texture and flavor variety.
How do I make the bars more chocolatey?
A simple way is to drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled bars, or swirl in some cocoa powder to the batter before baking. Alternatively, sandwich two bars with chocolate spread for an indulgent treat.
What’s the best way to ensure the bars stay soft and chewy?
Don’t overbake! Once the edges turn golden and the center is just set, take them out. Overbaking leads to dryness. Also, storing them in an airtight container helps maintain moisture.
Final Thoughts
Baking this Coconut Bars Recipe is like giving yourself a warm, delicious hug. The balance of buttery richness, sweet coconut, and chewy texture makes these bars utterly irresistible. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe is straightforward, rewarding, and sure to become a beloved go-to. Don’t wait till a special occasion—grab your ingredients and whip up a batch today. Your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Coconut Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Coconut Bars are soft, chewy dessert bars loaded with sweet coconut flavor and a buttery base. Easy to make and perfect for potlucks, holidays, or everyday treats, these bars are a favorite for coconut lovers seeking a delightful coconut-infused dessert.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal after baking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until fully combined and smooth, creating the base of your batter.
- Add Eggs and Flavor: Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix well until all ingredients are incorporated, enhancing the bar’s flavor and texture.
- Incorporate Coconut: Stir in the sweetened shredded coconut evenly into the wet mixture to distribute the coconut flavor throughout the batter.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to ensure even leavening and to balance flavors in the bars.
- Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender, chewy texture.
- Spread Batter and Bake: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top for uniform baking. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until the edges turn lightly golden and the center is set.
- Cool and Slice: Allow the bars to cool completely in the baking dish before slicing into 12 pieces to prevent crumbling and ensure clean cuts.
Notes
- For an extra boost of coconut flavor, lightly toast the shredded coconut before mixing it into the batter.
- Optionally, drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled bars to add a rich contrast.
- Store the coconut bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
