These Coconut Cream Pie Bars are the ultimate tropical treat, featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, a rich and creamy coconut filling, and a light, fluffy whipped cream topping. Perfect for dessert lovers who enjoy a taste of the tropics, these bars are simple to make and deliver a deliciously satisfying flavor in every bite.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup granulated sugar
For the Coconut Cream Layer:
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
1 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1️⃣ Prepare the Crust:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until everything is well combined and the crumbs are evenly coated with butter.
2️⃣ Press the Crust into the Pan:
Press the graham cracker mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, ensuring the crust is evenly spread out and firmly packed. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden and firm. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool.
3️⃣ Make the Coconut Cream Layer:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Stir in the shredded coconut until well combined.
4️⃣ Add the Whipped Cream:
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the coconut mixture, being careful not to deflate the whipped cream too much.
5️⃣ Layer the Coconut Cream Filling:
Once the crust has cooled, spread the coconut cream mixture evenly over the graham cracker crust, smoothing it out to the edges with a spatula.
6️⃣ Chill the Bars:
Refrigerate the coconut cream pie bars for at least 4 hours, or until the filling is set and firm.
7️⃣ Serve and Enjoy:
Once the bars have chilled, cut them into squares and serve. Garnish with additional shredded coconut or a drizzle of chocolate if desired for an extra touch.
Pro Tips for Perfect Coconut Cream Pie Bars:
Use Sweetened Coconut: Make sure to use sweetened shredded coconut, as it adds the right amount of sweetness to balance out the tanginess of the cream cheese.
Whip the Cream Well: Be sure to whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks before folding it into the coconut mixture. This ensures the bars have a light, airy texture.
Chill Well: The bars need to chill for at least 4 hours, so plan ahead! Chilling allows the coconut cream filling to set and makes them easier to cut into neat bars.
Why You’ll Love Coconut Cream Pie Bars:
Tropical Flavor: The sweetened coconut and creamy filling bring a tropical flair to every bite, making these bars an exotic treat that everyone will love.
Rich and Creamy: The creamy coconut filling combined with the smooth texture of the cream cheese is indulgent and satisfying.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and no baking required for the filling, these bars come together quickly and effortlessly.
Perfect for Parties: These bars are a great make-ahead option for parties, potlucks, or any gathering that calls for a sweet, crowd-pleasing dessert.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 280
Protein: 3g
Carbs: 23g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 2g
FAQ About Coconut Cream Pie Bars:
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, these bars need to be chilled for several hours, making them perfect for preparing the day before your event. Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge.
Can I use a different crust?
Absolutely! You can substitute the graham cracker crust with a coconut cookie crust, shortbread crust, or even an almond flour crust for a gluten-free option.
Can I use unsweetened coconut?
While you can use unsweetened coconut, you may want to increase the sugar in the coconut cream filling to balance the flavors. Sweetened coconut adds just the right amount of sweetness.
Common Problems and Fixes:
Crust Too Crumbly?
If the crust doesn’t hold together well, try pressing it down more firmly or adding a little more melted butter to help bind the crumbs.
Coconut Cream Layer Too Runny?
If the coconut cream layer is too runny, it may not have been chilled long enough. Allow the bars to set for a longer period before serving to ensure the filling firms up.
Flavor Variations You Can Try:
Chocolate Coconut Cream Pie Bars: Add a layer of chocolate ganache or chocolate chips between the crust and the coconut filling for a decadent twist.
Lemon Coconut Cream Bars: Add lemon zest or a touch of lemon juice to the coconut filling for a citrusy burst of flavor that complements the coconut.
Coconut-Almond Bars: Stir in some chopped toasted almonds into the filling for an extra nutty crunch.
Why Coconut Cream Pie Bars are Perfect for Any Occasion:
These coconut cream pie bars are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a summer gathering, a holiday party, or just a special dessert to enjoy at home. Their tropical flavors and creamy texture make them a crowd-pleaser, and they’re easy to prepare ahead of time.
Success with Coconut Cream Pie Bars:
With their rich, creamy filling and tropical flavors, these bars are sure to become a favorite dessert. They’re perfect for impressing guests or just indulging in a little sweetness yourself.
For more tropical treats, try our Pina Colada Cake or Mango Coconut Sorbet.
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