Coconut Cream Bars Recipe
Equipment
- 9x13 inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- 1 14 ounce can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups shredded sweetened coconut
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. Stir in shredded coconut.
- Pour the coconut mixture over the crust.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is set.
- Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use dark chocolate graham crackers.
- You can add a pinch of salt to the crust for a savory touch.
- To toast the coconut, spread it on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes at 350°F (175°C), or until golden brown.
Ever had one of those days when you just need a mini vacation? Sun, sand, and the gentle lull of the ocean? Well, grab your shades and flip-flops, because we’re about to transport your taste buds straight to the tropics with a sweet and creamy treat: coconut cream bars.
These little squares of paradise are like a hug from the beach – a delightful mashup of buttery crust, rich coconut filling, and a hint of that unmistakable vacation vibe. Whether you’re a die-hard coconut fanatic or just looking for a refreshing dessert, these bars are about to become your new obsession. They’re surprisingly versatile too! You can whip up a batch in a flash with no-bake versions or go all out with a from-scratch masterpiece.
Simple Indulgence: The Classic Coconut Cream Bar
Let’s start with the OG – the classic coconut cream bar. Picture this: a crumbly graham cracker crust that melts in your mouth, giving way to a luscious layer of sweetened condensed milk infused with shredded coconut. It’s like a coconut macaroon met a cheesecake and fell madly in love. The best part? It’s easier to make than building a sandcastle. Crush some graham crackers, mix them with melted butter, and press it into a pan for the crust. Then, whisk together condensed milk, eggs, and a mountain of coconut flakes. Pour it over the crust, bake, and voila! You’ve got yourself a slice of sunshine.
No Oven? No Problem! Whip Up No-Bake Coconut Dreams
Now, if you’re the type who likes instant gratification (and who doesn’t?), then no-bake coconut cream bars are your jam. These bad boys are like a beach day without the sunburn. You’ll still get that incredible coconutty flavor, but with a shortcut that involves chilling instead of baking. Cream cheese, whipped cream, and sweetened condensed milk team up with shredded coconut to create a dreamy filling that sets up in the fridge. Top it with toasted coconut for an extra crunch, and you’ve got a dessert that’s ready faster than you can say “pina colada.”
Vegan Twist: Tropical Treats for Everyone
Don’t worry, plant-based pals, we haven’t forgotten about you! Vegan coconut cream bars are just as delightful, with a few clever swaps. Instead of condensed milk, you’ll use coconut cream, and a bit of cornstarch helps create that signature silky texture. Maple syrup or agave nectar steps in for sweetness, and a mix of nuts and seeds can replace the graham cracker crust. The result? A tropical treat that’s as compassionate as it is delicious.
Unleash Your Inner Flavor Alchemist
The beauty of coconut cream bars is their potential for flavor adventures. Feel like a chocolate lover? Swirl in some melted chocolate or add a layer of chocolate ganache. Craving something fruity? Mango, pineapple, or raspberries are all amazing additions. A hint of lime zest or a splash of rum extract can elevate the tropical vibes even further. Think of your coconut cream bars as a blank canvas – let your imagination run wild!
Storage Secrets and Serving Suggestions
Once you’ve created your masterpiece, you’ll want to make it last. Store your coconut cream bars in the fridge, covered tightly, to keep them fresh and delicious. They’re perfect for a backyard barbecue, a potluck, or just a quiet evening on the porch. Serve them up plain, or get fancy with a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of toasted coconut, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Coconut cream bars are more than just a dessert; they’re an escape, a reminder of sunny days and carefree moments. So, go ahead, grab a fork and dive in. Let the flavors transport you to a place where worries melt away like ice cubes in a piña colada. After all, life’s a beach, and a little bit of coconut cream never hurt anyone.
Hello, I’m Elaria Jackson, the author behind Vegan Castle. I have a background in Nutrition Science and Culinary Arts. I’ve studied the benefits of a plant-based diet and its impact on health and the environment. I’ve attended various vegan cooking courses and workshops. Through Vegan Castle, I share easy weeknight meals and decadent desserts. I aim to be a valuable companion on your vegan journey.