Description
Coconut Butter Bars are a rich, indulgent dessert made for true coconut lovers. Featuring a buttery baked crust and a soft, creamy coconut filling, these bars strike the perfect balance between chewy, sweet, and melt-in-your-mouth goodness. Simple to prepare and irresistibly delicious, they’re ideal for gatherings, holidays, or an everyday treat.
Introduction
If coconut is one of your favorite flavors, this recipe will quickly become a staple. These bars come together easily using pantry-friendly ingredients and bake into a dessert that looks impressive but requires minimal effort. The combination of sweetened condensed milk, coconut flakes, and butter creates a decadent filling that pairs beautifully with the golden crust.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy to make with simple ingredients
Rich coconut flavor in every bite
Perfect texture: buttery base with a creamy center
Great for parties, bake sales, or family desserts
Slices beautifully once cooled
Ingredients
For the Crust
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup butter, melted (2 sticks)
For the Filling
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
3 eggs
1/4 cup butter, melted
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 teaspoon salt
3 cups sweetened shredded coconut
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut, for topping
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a medium bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, salt, and melted butter until a soft dough forms.
Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish using your hands or a spatula.
Bake the crust for 13–15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
While the crust is baking, prepare the filling by combining flour, sweetened condensed milk, sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, salt, and 3 cups of coconut in a large bowl. Mix until smooth.
Pour the filling evenly over the hot baked crust and spread gently.
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of coconut evenly over the top.
Return the pan to the oven and bake for 25–28 minutes, or until the center is set and the coconut topping is lightly browned.
Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely before slicing.
Variations
Add a drizzle of melted chocolate after cooling
Use unsweetened coconut for a less sweet version
Add chopped nuts for extra texture
Mix in a little almond extract for a flavor twist
Tips for Best Results
Do not overbake; the center should be just set
Allow bars to cool fully for clean slices
Use parchment paper for easier removal
Toast the coconut topping lightly if you prefer extra crunch
Storage Tips
Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days
Refrigerate for up to 5 days for a firmer texture
Bars can be frozen for up to 2 months and thawed overnight
Serving Suggestions
Serve with coffee or tea
Top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
Dust lightly with powdered sugar before serving
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, they are even better the next day once fully set.
Do I need to refrigerate them?
Only if you prefer a firmer texture or want to store them longer.
Can I halve the recipe?
Yes, use an 8×8-inch pan and adjust baking time slightly.
Conclusion
Coconut Butter Bars are the ultimate dessert for coconut fans. With a golden buttery crust and a creamy coconut-packed filling, they’re easy to make, beautifully textured, and impossible to resist. Once you try them, they’re guaranteed to earn a permanent spot in your dessert rotation.