Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These coconut cream bars are rich yet light, with the perfect balance of textures—smooth filling, crispy crust, and crunchy topping. Easy to make, customizable, and full of tropical flavors, they are sure to be a hit at any gathering, from picnics to holiday tables.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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All-purpose flour
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Unsalted butter
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Granulated sugar
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Eggs
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Sweetened shredded coconut
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Coconut milk
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Vanilla extract
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Cornstarch
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Whipped topping
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Toasted coconut (for garnish)
Directions
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Preheat oven and prepare the baking pan.
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Combine flour, sugar, and butter to form the crust. Press into the pan and bake until golden.
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Prepare the coconut cream filling by cooking coconut milk, shredded coconut, and cornstarch until thickened.
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Pour the filling over the baked crust and bake until set.
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Cool, then chill to firm up. Top with whipped topping and toasted coconut before serving.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 12-16 bars
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Prep Time: 20 minutes
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Cook Time: 30 minutes
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Total Time: 50 minutes (plus chilling time)
Variations
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Add lime zest for a citrus twist.
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Use unsweetened coconut for a less sweet version.
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Add crushed pineapple for a piña colada flavor.
Storage/Reheating
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Store in the fridge for up to 5 days.
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Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw before adding whipped topping.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! It’s best made a day in advance and chilled for extra flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Can I freeze these bars?
Yes, freeze without the whipped topping for up to 2 months.
How do I toast coconut?
Toast in a dry skillet for 2-3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply use a larger pan and adjust the baking time slightly.
Conclusion
Island Dream Coconut Cream Bars are a tropical indulgence that’s easy to make and full of flavor. With a smooth coconut filling, crunchy topping, and light whipped cream, these bars are sure to become a favorite dessert for any occasion.
Island Dream Coconut Cream Bars
- Total Time: 50 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Yield: 12-16 bars
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Island Dream Coconut Cream Bars are the ultimate tropical treat with a buttery crust, creamy coconut filling, and a fluffy whipped topping. Toasted coconut on top adds the perfect finishing touch. These bars are a tropical indulgence perfect for any occasion, from casual picnics to holiday celebrations.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
¼ cup granulated sugar
For the Coconut Cream Filling:
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
1 cup coconut milk
2 large eggs
½ cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping:
1 cup whipped topping (store-bought or homemade)
½ cup toasted coconut (for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper or spray with non-stick cooking spray.
Prepare the Crust:
In a medium bowl, mix the flour, sugar, and butter until the mixture forms a dough. Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan, covering the bottom completely.
Bake the Crust:
Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
Make the Coconut Cream Filling:
In a medium saucepan, combine coconut milk, sweetened shredded coconut, sugar, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in the eggs and vanilla extract.
Assemble the Bars:
Pour the coconut filling over the baked crust and spread evenly. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is set. Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature.
Chill:
Once cooled, refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours to allow the coconut cream to firm up.
Top with Whipped Topping and Toasted Coconut:
Once the bars are chilled, spread the whipped topping evenly over the coconut filling. Sprinkle with toasted coconut to garnish.
Serve and Enjoy:
Cut the bars into 12-16 squares and serve chilled.
Notes
Variations:
Add lime zest to the filling for a citrus twist.
Use unsweetened coconut for a less sweet version of these bars.
For a piña colada flavor, add crushed pineapple to the filling.
Storage/Reheating:
Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Freeze without the whipped topping for up to 2 months. Thaw before serving.
Reheating: Not necessary, as these bars are best served chilled.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tropical, American
