Toasted Coconut Bars

Toasted Coconut Bars Recipe: Delicious Bars with Coconut, Flour, and Butter

Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 70 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

Toasted Coconut Bars are a delicious and decadent dessert that are perfect for any occasion. These bars are a sweet treat that are sure to satisfy your cravings for something rich and indulgent.

History

The history of Toasted Coconut Bars is not well-documented, but it is believed that this recipe originated in the United States. These bars have become a popular dessert choice for many, thanks to their irresistible combination of flavors and textures.

Ingredients

2.25 cups flour
0.5 cup powdered sugar
2 sticks chilled, unsalted butter cut into pieces
1 cup brown sugar
0.5 cup sugar
3 eggs
2 tbsp cream of coconut
1 tbsp milk
1.5 cups sweetened shredded coconut
1 tbsp flour
1 tsp vanilla
3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
In a food processor, mix together the flour and sugar.
Add the butter and pulse on and off until the mixture begins to come together.
Press the dough evenly over the bottom of a 13x9" pan.
Refrigerate for 15 minutes.
Bake until golden brown, about 25 minutes.
Allow to cool.
Reduce the oven heat to 300°F (149°C).
For the topping, combine the brown sugar, white sugar, eggs, cream of coconut (canned, such as Coco López, found in grocery stores in bar supplies), milk, flour, and vanilla in a large bowl.
Whisk just until blended.
Fold in the melted butter.
Sprinkle the coconut over the crust.
Pour the mixture over the crust evenly.
Bake until the topping is set and golden brown, about 45 minutes.
Transfer to a rack and allow to cool.
Cut into squares.
Store in an airtight container.
This recipe can be doubled and baked on a 15" baking sheet.

Variations

Add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the topping for extra flavor and texture.
Use different extracts such as almond or coconut for a unique twist on the classic recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to refrigerate the dough before baking to ensure a crispy crust.

- Be careful not to overmix the topping, as this can result in a dense and heavy texture.

- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into squares to ensure clean and neat slices.

Serving Suggestions

Toasted Coconut Bars are best enjoyed with a cup of hot coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.

Cooking Techniques

Use a food processor to easily mix the dough for the crust.

- Whisk the topping ingredients together gently to avoid overmixing.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use margarine instead of butter for a dairy-free option.

- Substitute coconut milk for the cream of coconut for a lighter flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Toasted Coconut Bars can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Toasted Coconut Bars on a decorative platter with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Toasted Coconut Bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert combination.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store Toasted Coconut Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 300°F (149°C) for 5-10 minutes.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Toasted Coconut Bars contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Toasted Coconut Bars contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Toasted Coconut Bars contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Toasted Coconut Bars contains approximately 3 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Toasted Coconut Bars are not a significant source of vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

Toasted Coconut Bars contain dairy and eggs. They may also contain traces of nuts.

Summary

Toasted Coconut Bars are a delicious dessert option that is relatively high in carbohydrates and fats. They are best enjoyed in moderation as a special treat.

Summary

Toasted Coconut Bars are a delightful dessert option that is perfect for any occasion. With a crispy crust and a rich coconut topping, these bars are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy this sweet treat with a cup of coffee or tea for a truly indulgent experience.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe is still vivid in my mind. It was a warm summer day, the kind of day where the sun shines bright and the birds sing sweetly. I had just finished baking a batch of my famous chocolate chip cookies when a dear friend of mine, Mrs. Jenkins, stopped by for a visit.

Mrs. Jenkins was known in our small town for her exquisite baking skills and she always had a new recipe up her sleeve. As we sat at the kitchen table sipping on tea, she reached into her purse and pulled out a crumpled piece of paper. "I came across this recipe for Toasted Coconut Bars and thought you might like to give it a try," she said with a twinkle in her eye.

I eagerly took the recipe from her and scanned over the ingredients and instructions. It seemed simple enough, but the combination of coconut and buttery crust intrigued me. I thanked Mrs. Jenkins and promised to make the bars for our next gathering.

As soon as she left, I headed back to the kitchen to gather the ingredients. The smell of coconut and butter filled the air as I mixed and baked the bars. When they were finally done, I couldn't wait to take a bite. The toasted coconut added a delicious crunch to the buttery crust, creating a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors.

I brought the bars to our next gathering and they were a hit. Everyone raved about the unique taste and texture, asking for the recipe. I gladly shared it with them, knowing that this would become a staple in my baking repertoire.

Over the years, I have made these Toasted Coconut Bars countless times, each time tweaking the recipe to perfection. I have shared it with friends and family, who have all fallen in love with the delicious treat. The secret, I have found, is in the toasting of the coconut – it brings out a nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the buttery crust.

As I sit here reminiscing about that fateful day when Mrs. Jenkins introduced me to this recipe, I can't help but feel grateful for the friendships and memories that have been made over a simple batch of bars. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, a way to bring people together and create lasting connections.

So here's to Mrs. Jenkins and her gift of the Toasted Coconut Bars recipe. May it continue to bring joy and delight to all who taste its sweet and crunchy goodness. And may it remind us of the power of sharing recipes and traditions, passed down through generations and cherished for years to come.