If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both luscious and satisfying, let me introduce you to my beloved coconut cream bars! These bars are an absolute dream with their creamy coconut filling that just melts in your mouth, perfectly balanced by a crunchy graham cracker crust. Honestly, it’s like a tropical vacation in every bite! What I adore most is how simple they are to whip up—just a handful of ingredients and a little bit of chilling time, and you’re ready to indulge. Trust me, once you taste these coconut cream bars, they’ll become your go-to treat for any occasion, or even just because you deserve something sweet!
Ingredients List
Here’s everything you’ll need to make these delightful coconut cream bars. The ingredient list is super straightforward, and I promise you’ll have most of these on hand already!
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1 cup coconut cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional, but I say go for it for some extra crunch!)
Just gather these ingredients, and you’re halfway to deliciousness! Trust me, each element adds to that creamy, dreamy texture you’ll love.
How to Prepare Instructions
Getting these coconut cream bars ready is a breeze, and I’m here to guide you through each step, so let’s dive in!
Step 1 – Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is super important because it ensures your crust will bake evenly and come out just right. So, while you’re gathering your ingredients, let that oven warm up a bit!
Step 2 – Prepare the Crust
In a large bowl, combine your graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, and melted butter. I love using a fork to mix it all together until it’s well combined and looks like damp sand. Once mixed, take that lovely mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of a baking dish. You want a nice, even layer to form the base of your bars—don’t skip this part!
Step 3 – Bake the Crust
Now, pop that crust into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 10 minutes. It should start to look golden and smell amazing! Once the time’s up, carefully take it out and set it aside to cool completely. This step is crucial because we don’t want a warm crust when we add the creamy filling.
Step 4 – Make the Coconut Cream Filling
While your crust cools, let’s whip up that delicious coconut cream filling! In a separate bowl, mix together the coconut cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. I just love how creamy and dreamy this mixture becomes! Whisk until it’s smooth and you can’t see any lumps—this will ensure each bite is heavenly.
Step 5 – Assemble the Bars
Once your crust is cool, it’s time to assemble! Spread the coconut cream filling evenly over the cooled crust. If you’re feeling a little extra, sprinkle those chopped nuts on top for a delightful crunch. Trust me, it takes these bars to the next level!
Step 6 – Chill and Serve
Finally, pop your assembled bars into the refrigerator and let them chill for at least 2 hours. This step is essential; it allows the flavors to meld together and the bars to firm up nicely. Once chilled, cut them into squares, serve, and watch everyone fall in love with these coconut cream bars!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for last-minute dessert cravings!
- Deliciously rich coconut flavor that transports you to a tropical paradise.
- Creamy texture that melts in your mouth, paired with a crunchy crust for the ultimate contrast.
- Vegetarian-friendly, making it a great option for all your friends and family.
- Perfect for sharing at parties, potlucks, or simply enjoying at home!
- Can easily be customized with your favorite toppings, like chocolate drizzles or extra nuts.
Tips for Success
To make sure your coconut cream bars turn out perfectly, here are some of my favorite tips! First, don’t rush the chilling process—giving the bars at least 2 hours in the fridge helps them set and enhances the flavor. If you want that extra coconut kick, feel free to add a bit more shredded coconut to the filling; it really intensifies that tropical vibe! Also, when mixing the coconut cream, make sure to whisk it until it’s super smooth—no lumps allowed! Trust me, the creaminess is what makes these bars so dreamy. Lastly, if you’re using nuts, toasting them lightly beforehand can take their flavor up a notch. Enjoy the process, and happy baking!
Nutritional Information
While I always say that dessert is meant to be enjoyed, it’s good to know what you’re indulging in! Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional values for each coconut cream bar:
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use. But hey, life’s too short not to enjoy a little sweetness now and then, right? So go ahead and treat yourself to these luscious coconut cream bars without a care in the world!
FAQ Section
Can I use sweetened shredded coconut instead of unsweetened?
Absolutely! Using sweetened shredded coconut will give your coconut cream bars a bit more sweetness, so adjust the powdered sugar accordingly if you prefer a less sweet treat.
How do I store leftover coconut cream bars?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just make sure they’re completely chilled before covering to avoid condensation!
Can I freeze coconut cream bars?
Yes, you can! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. They should keep well for up to two months. Thaw them in the fridge before serving for the best texture.
What can I substitute for coconut cream?
If you can’t find coconut cream, you can use full-fat coconut milk as a substitute. Just chill it first and scoop out the thick cream that rises to the top!
Can I add other flavors to these coconut cream bars?
Definitely! You can add a splash of almond extract for an extra layer of flavor, or even a little lime juice for a zesty twist. Get creative and make it your own!
Coconut Cream Bars: 6 Irresistibly Creamy Bites to Savor
- Temps Total: 2 hours 25 minutes
- Rendement: 12 bars 1x
- Alimentation: Végétarien
Description
Coconut cream bars are a delicious dessert made with a creamy coconut filling and a crunchy crust.
Ingrédients
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1 cup coconut cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, and melted butter.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a baking dish to form the crust.
- Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove and let cool.
- In another bowl, combine coconut cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
- Spread the coconut cream mixture over the cooled crust.
- If desired, sprinkle chopped nuts on top.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- For a stronger coconut flavor, add more shredded coconut.
- Temps De Préparation: 15 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 10 minutes
- Catégorie: Dessert
- Méthode: Baking
- Cuisine: American
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1 bar
- Calories: 180
- Sucre: 10g
- De Sodium: 50mg
- La graisse: 10g
- Graisses Saturées: 7g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 2g
- Les Gras Trans: 0g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 20g
- La fibre: 2g
- La protéine: 2g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 15mg
Mots-clés: coconut cream bars
