If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a tropical vacation wrapped in a bar, the Coconut Dream Bars Recipe is an absolute must-try. These bars combine a buttery graham cracker crust with a rich, sweet coconut filling, all topped with smooth, melt-in-your-mouth chocolate. Every bite melts together flavors and textures that are comforting yet exciting, making it an unforgettable treat whether for a casual snack or a festive gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s keep it simple with ingredients that you likely have at home or can easily find. Each one plays a crucial role: from the buttery crust that forms the perfect base to the luscious coconut filling and that irresistible chocolate topping, everything harmonizes beautifully.
- Graham wafer crumbs (2 cups): This provides the crunchy, buttery base with that classic, slightly sweet flavor that complements the coconut.
- Sugar (1/4 cup): Just the right amount to enhance sweetness without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Melted butter (1/2 cup): Binds the crust together, adding richness and that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Sweetened condensed milk (1 can, 300ml/14 oz): This luscious, thick milk adds creamy sweetness and holds the coconut together beautifully.
- Unsweetened dried coconut (2 cups): The star ingredient, delivering chewy texture and that unmistakable coconut flavor.
- Vanilla flavoring (2 tsp): Enhances the sweetness and adds depth to the overall flavor profile.
- Chocolate chips (1 1/4 cups): Creates a decadent, glossy topping that contrasts perfectly with the chewy coconut layer.
- Butter or whipping cream (3 tbsp): Helps melt the chocolate smoothly and keeps it shiny and soft.
How to Make Coconut Dream Bars Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, grease a 9×9 inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper. This step ensures that your bars will come out easily without sticking, and it’s the first step toward that perfect base you’re building.
Step 2: Make the Crust
Melt half a cup of butter and combine it with the graham wafer crumbs and sugar. Stir this mixture well until everything is evenly coated. Press this crumbly, buttery mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan—this crust will be the crunchy, flavorful foundation of your bars.
Step 3: Bake the Crust
Pop the crust into your preheated oven for 10 minutes. This short bake helps set the crust, making it sturdy enough to hold the coconut filling without getting soggy later on.
Step 4: Prepare the Coconut Filling
While the crust is baking, mix together the sweetened condensed milk, dried coconut, and vanilla flavoring in a bowl. This combination creates a chewy, sweet filling with a hint of warmth from the vanilla that balances perfectly with the crisp crust.
Step 5: Spread and Bake the Filling
Once the crust is done, spread the coconut mixture evenly over it. Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes. Keep a close eye on the edges—they should just start turning golden brown. Overbaking will dry out the bars, so it’s important to pull them out at the perfect moment for ideal moisture and texture.
Step 6: Cool Completely
Remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan. This cooling phase is essential, so the filling sets properly and the bars hold together beautifully when you cut them.
Step 7: Melt Chocolate Topping
Next, gently melt the chocolate chips with 3 tablespoons of butter or whipping cream until smooth and glossy. This silky topping will add a final layer of indulgence that makes these bars irresistible.
Step 8: Spread and Set the Chocolate
Spread the melted chocolate evenly over the cooled coconut layer. Allow it to stand at room temperature for about an hour so the chocolate can set up to that perfect firmness—soft but not sticky.
Step 9: Cut and Enjoy
Once the chocolate has set, cut the bars into squares. Now comes the best part: tasting your Coconut Dream Bars Recipe that boasts a symphony of buttery crunch, sweet chewy coconut, and silky chocolate.
How to Serve Coconut Dream Bars Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a few toasted coconut flakes or a light dusting of powdered sugar on top of each bar for an extra touch of elegance and texture. Fresh raspberries or a drizzle of caramel can also elevate the flavor and presentation, making your Coconut Dream Bars Recipe feel even more special.
Side Dishes
These bars are wonderful paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a dessert that’s truly next level. A cup of freshly brewed coffee or a tropical smoothie can also complement the tropical flavors beautifully, turning your treat into a full sensory experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering these bars in a clear glass trifle dish with whipped cream and fresh berries to create a stunning dessert centerpiece. Or, package individual bars wrapped in parchment paper tied with twine—perfect for gifting or taking to a potluck where their charm will surely impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover Coconut Dream Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps the chocolate nicely set without getting too hard and the coconut moist and tasty.
Freezing
For longer storage, these bars freeze beautifully. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag or container. They can keep fresh for up to two months in the freezer, perfect for preparing ahead for holidays or special occasions.
Reheating
If you want to enjoy the bars slightly warm, simply let them thaw at room temperature and then warm for about 10 seconds in the microwave. This softens the chocolate and revives the buttery crust for that freshly-baked taste.
FAQs
Can I use shredded coconut instead of dried coconut?
Yes, shredded coconut works well too, though it may impart a slightly different texture. Just make sure it’s unsweetened to balance the sweetness from the condensed milk.
Is there a substitute for graham wafer crumbs?
Digestive biscuit crumbs are a great alternative if you can’t find graham wafers. They provide a similar taste and crumbly texture for the crust.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, look for vegan butter and dairy-free chocolate chips. Sweetened condensed milk substitutes exist, but the texture might be a bit different, so expect a slight variation in creaminess.
What’s the best way to melt the chocolate topping?
The gentlest way is to melt chocolate chips with butter or cream over low heat in a double boiler or microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
How long will Coconut Dream Bars stay fresh?
Tightly sealed at room temperature, these bars remain fresh for about three days. For longer freshness, consider refrigeration or freezing.
Final Thoughts
These bars truly are a slice of paradise that you can enjoy anytime, anywhere. With their perfect blend of textures and flavors, the Coconut Dream Bars Recipe will quickly become a cherished favorite in your baking repertoire. Don’t wait to whip up a batch and share a little coconut joy with your friends and family!
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Coconut Dream Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
Description
Coconut Dream Bars are a delightful layered dessert combining a buttery graham cracker crust, a sweet coconut filling, and a luscious chocolate topping. These bars are easy to make and perfect for any occasion, featuring a crispy, chewy, and chocolatey experience all in one bite. With a quick 30-minute prep and baking time, they’re perfect for holiday baking or a simple sweet treat.
Ingredients
Crust
- 2 cups graham wafer crumbs (or digestive biscuit crumbs)
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup melted butter
Coconut Filling
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk (300ml in Canada, 14 oz in the US)
- 2 cups unsweetened dried coconut (dessicated coconut)
- 2 tsp vanilla flavoring
Chocolate Topping
- 1 1/4 cups chocolate chips
- 3 tbsp butter or whipping cream
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the bars.
- Prepare baking pan: Grease a 9×9 inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and allow easy removal of the bars.
- Make crust mixture: Melt 1/2 cup butter, then mix it thoroughly with the graham cracker crumbs and sugar until well combined.
- Press crust: Firmly press the crumb mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to create an even base.
- Bake crust: Bake the crust for 10 minutes until just set but not browned.
- Prepare coconut filling: While the crust bakes, stir together the sweetened condensed milk, unsweetened dried coconut, and vanilla flavoring until evenly mixed.
- Spread coconut layer: Evenly spread the coconut mixture over the baked crust layer.
- Bake bars: Return the pan to the oven and bake for 10-15 more minutes, watching carefully until the edges just begin to brown to avoid drying out.
- Cool bars: Remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan to set the layers.
- Melt chocolate topping: Melt the chocolate chips together with the butter or whipping cream until smooth and glossy.
- Spread chocolate topping: Spread the melted chocolate evenly over the cooled coconut layer, then let stand for about an hour to allow the chocolate to fully set.
- Serve: Cut into squares and enjoy your delicious Coconut Dream Bars.
- Storage tip: These bars freeze well, making them perfect for holiday baking or preparing in advance for a convenient dessert treat.
Notes
- Use parchment paper to make bar removal easy and keep the baking pan clean.
- Be cautious not to overbake the coconut layer to maintain moistness and avoid dryness.
- Feel free to substitute chocolate chips for dark or semi-sweet chocolate depending on your preference.
- Bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or frozen for extended storage.
- If using whipping cream instead of butter for the topping, use heavy cream for best melting results.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
