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Coconut Cream Bars Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 134 reviews
  • Author: Aiden
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 24 bars 1x

Description

These Coconut Cream Bars are a luscious treat featuring a buttery, moist base topped with a rich coconut cream frosting and a delightful mix of toasted and untoasted shredded coconut. Perfectly sweet and creamy, they combine tender cookie bars with a smooth, fluffy frosting, ideal for coconut lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike.

Ingredients

Scale

Bottom Layer

  • 1 cup unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
  • 2 oz cream cheese (softened)
  • 1 ¾ cup sugar
  • 2 large eggs + 1 egg yolk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon coconut extract
  • 2 ½ cups all purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 ½ cups sweetened shredded coconut (divided)

Coconut Cream Frosting

  • ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 3 oz cream cheese (softened)
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • ½ teaspoon coconut extract
  • ⅛ teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare Bottom Layer: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and line a 13×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease and flour it to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, cream cheese, and sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat at medium-high speed for about 1 minute until the mixture is light and creamy.
  3. Add Eggs and Extracts: Stir in the two large eggs, one egg yolk, vanilla extract, and coconut extract until fully incorporated.
  4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
  5. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and beat on medium-low speed until just combined.
  6. Spread Batter and Bake: Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan and bake on the center rack of your preheated oven for 25 minutes. After baking, let the bars cool completely in the pan before applying the frosting.
  7. Toast Coconut (Optional): While the bars cool, optionally toast ½ cup of shredded coconut by spreading it evenly on a parchment-lined cookie sheet. Bake in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for 4-5 minutes, stir, then continue to toast in 3-minute intervals until lightly browned. Allow toasted coconut to cool.
  8. Prepare Coconut Cream Frosting: In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy with an electric mixer.
  9. Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually beat in the powdered sugar until the frosting is combined and smooth.
  10. Flavor and Salt: Stir in the coconut extract and salt until evenly mixed.
  11. Frost the Bars: Spread the coconut cream frosting evenly over the cooled bars.
  12. Top with Coconut: Sprinkle the remaining untoasted shredded coconut evenly over the frosted bars, then top with the toasted coconut for contrast and crunch.
  13. Serve: Cut the bars into squares and serve. For an extra indulgent touch, you may drizzle melted dark chocolate over the bars before serving.

Notes

  • Ensure the bottom layer is fully cooled before frosting to prevent melting.
  • Toasting the coconut is optional but adds wonderful flavor and texture.
  • Feel free to drizzle dark chocolate over the bars for a richer dessert experience.
  • Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • Bring bars to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: Coconut cream bars, coconut dessert, creamy frosting, toasted coconut, easy dessert bars

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Find it online: https://tastyplatesspot.com/coconut-cream-bars-recipe/