Introduction
Welcome to a delightful escape into sweet indulgence with these Coconut Cream Dream Bars! Imagine a luscious, creamy filling atop a buttery, crumbly crust, all kissed with the tropical flavor of coconut. These bars are the perfect treat for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself to a slice of paradise. With each bite, you’ll experience a burst of flavor that transports you straight to a sun-kissed beach. Let’s dive into this dreamy recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- Additional shredded coconut for topping
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes (including cooling time)
Yield: 16 delicious bars
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan to prepare it for the delightful goodness to come.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, powdered sugar, and softened butter. Mix until the ingredients resemble a crumbly texture, signaling the start of your crust.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, forming a solid crust that will hold all the creamy goodness.
- Bake the crust in your preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until it turns a lovely light golden brown. Remove it from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, heavy whipping cream, vanilla extract, and granulated sugar until everything is well blended and intoxicatingly creamy.
- Gently stir in the sweetened shredded coconut, ensuring each bite will be filled with that delightful texture and flavor.
- Pour the luscious coconut cream mixture over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly to create a beautiful layer.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top has a lovely golden hue.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature. Patience is key here!
- After cooling, refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours before slicing them into squares.
- Before serving, top each bar with additional shredded coconut for that extra touch of tropical charm.
Notes or Tips
- For added depth of flavor, consider toasting the shredded coconut before adding it to the filling.
- These bars can be garnished with a drizzle of chocolate for an elegant touch.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week – if they last that long!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe uses a simple baking technique to create a deliciously layered dessert. Be mindful of the baking times to ensure your crust is perfectly golden and the filling is set without overcooking. Mixing the filling should be done gently but thoroughly to keep everything light and airy.
FAQ
- Can I use unsweetened coconut? Yes, you can, but be prepared for a slightly less sweet and more intense coconut flavor.
- Can these bars be frozen? Absolutely! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. They can be stored for up to 2 months.
- What can I serve these bars with? They pair beautifully with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra luxurious treat.
Conclusion
There you have it—an irresistible recipe for Coconut Cream Dream Bars that’s bound to be a hit! With their rich, creamy filling and buttery crust, these bars make every bite a little slice of heaven. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, channel your inner baker, and treat yourself and your loved ones to these delightful bars. Enjoy every sweet moment!