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Coconut Dream Bars

Coconut Dream Bars


  • Author: Amelia
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 16 bars 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free (with gluten-free crust alternative)

Description

Coconut Dream Bars are a sweet and creamy dessert combining rich coconut flavor with a smooth texture and a crunchy graham cracker crust. This easy-to-make baked treat uses natural ingredients like shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, butter, and vanilla extract, making it a versatile snack or elegant dessert perfect for any occasion. Customize with chocolate, nuts, or fruit for your perfect flavor twist.


Ingredients

Scale

Crust Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 6 tablespoons butter, melted

Filling Ingredients

  • 3 cups shredded coconut (fresh or unsweetened preferred)
  • 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Toppings (Optional)

  • Powdered sugar, for dusting
  • Melted chocolate, for drizzling

Instructions

  1. Prepare the crust: Mix the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until evenly coated. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a lined baking pan to form a sturdy and flavorful base. Chill while preparing the filling to help it set well.
  2. Make the creamy coconut filling: In a bowl, combine shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well mixed and the coconut is fully coated, creating a luscious, sticky filling ready to spread.
  3. Assemble the bars: Evenly layer the coconut filling over the chilled crust, smoothing it out with a spatula. Make sure the filling covers the crust edge to edge for consistent bites.
  4. Bake and cool: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25 minutes or until the top is golden and set. Let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing to ensure they hold their shape and develop flavor.
  5. Final touches: Optionally, dust the cooled bars lightly with powdered sugar or drizzle melted chocolate on top for an elegant finish. If adding chocolate, chill again to allow it to set before serving.

Notes

  • Use fresh or unsweetened shredded coconut for best texture and flavor.
  • Press the crust firmly to prevent crumbling during cutting or serving.
  • Chill the bars before slicing to help them hold together beautifully.
  • Adjust sweetness by tasting the filling before baking and adding more condensed milk if desired.
  • Line your baking pan with parchment paper or foil for easy removal of the bars.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bar
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 90mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: Coconut dessert, Coconut bars, Easy baking, Creamy coconut bars, Gluten-free bars, No-bake crust alternative