Caramel Coconut Bars

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that will make your taste buds dance, then let me introduce you to my favorite Caramel Coconut Bars! These delightful bars have a soft and gooey texture, layered with a buttery shortbread crust, luscious caramel coconut filling, and a drizzle of milk chocolate on top. Inspired by the beloved Samoas Girl Scout cookies, these bars are perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a busy weeknight dessert, a family gathering, or simply treating yourself after a long day.

What I love most about these Caramel Coconut Bars is how easy they are to whip up. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you’ll have a delicious dessert that everyone will crave. Trust me; once you try them, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: In under an hour, you can create something truly scrumptious!
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore these gooey treats; they’re perfect for sharing.
• Versatile flavors: The combination of coconut and caramel is irresistible—you can’t go wrong!
• Make-ahead option: Bake them in advance for parties or meal prep; they hold up beautifully.
• Perfectly sweet: The balance of sweet chocolate and rich caramel makes every bite heavenly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! For these Caramel Coconut Bars, you’ll need some simple and wholesome items that are likely already in your pantry. Let’s take a look at what you need:

For the Shortbread Crust

• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter (softened)
• ⅓ cup (70g) brown sugar (light or dark)
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1¼ cups (157g) all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)

For the Caramel Coconut Filling

• 6 tablespoons (86g) unsalted butter (cut into pieces)
• ¾ cup (156g) brown sugar (light or dark)
• 2 tablespoons honey
• ¼ cup (60g) heavy cream
• scant ½ teaspoon salt
• 1¼ cups (105g) sweetened shredded coconut
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Drizzle

• ¾ cup (125g) milk chocolate chips
• flaky finishing salt (optional)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variations to suit your taste:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped almonds or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Use dark chocolate: Swap milk chocolate for dark chocolate chips for a more intense flavor.
• Coconut alternatives: If you’re not a fan of coconut, try using chopped dried fruits like apricots or cherries.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or gluten-free flour blend.

How to Make Caramel Coconut Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Shortbread Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step ensures that your crust is tender and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Gradually add in the flour and salt until combined. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a lined baking dish. This crust will provide the sturdy base your gooey filling needs!

Step 2: Bake the Crust

Pop your prepared crust into the oven and bake for about 15 minutes until it’s lightly golden. Baking it first helps set the crust so it won’t get soggy later on. While that’s baking, we can prepare our luscious caramel coconut filling!

Step 3: Make the Caramel Coconut Filling

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine butter, brown sugar, honey, heavy cream, and salt. Stir constantly until everything melts together into a smooth caramel sauce. This is where the magic happens! Once melted, remove from heat and stir in shredded coconut and vanilla extract. This mixture adds that wonderful chewy texture we all love!

Step 4: Assemble Your Bars

Once your shortbread crust has cooled slightly, pour the caramel coconut filling over it evenly. Spread it out gently with a spatula. Return to the oven for another 12-15 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Step 5: Add Chocolate Drizzle

While still warm from the oven, melt your chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl or over low heat on the stove. Drizzle melted chocolate over your baked bars using a fork or spoon for that classic look! If desired, sprinkle flaky finishing salt on top to enhance all those lovely flavors.

Step 6: Cool and Slice

Allow everything to cool completely before slicing into squares. This cooling time lets those layers firm up nicely so you can enjoy each bite without any mess!

And there you have it—your very own batch of delightful Caramel Coconut Bars! Enjoy them with friends or keep them all to yourself; I promise they won’t last long!

Pro Tips for Making Caramel Coconut Bars

Creating the perfect Caramel Coconut Bars can be a delightful experience, especially with a few handy tips up your sleeve!

• Use room temperature butter: Softened butter blends more easily into the cookie crust, ensuring a smooth and even texture that holds together beautifully.
• Don’t skip the resting time: Allow your bars to cool completely before slicing. This helps the layers set properly, making them easier to cut and preventing any gooey mess.
• Measure ingredients accurately: Using a kitchen scale for ingredients like flour and sugar ensures consistency in your baking. This can make a significant difference in texture and flavor.
• Customize the chocolate drizzle: Feel free to swap milk chocolate chips for dark or semi-sweet varieties if you prefer a different flavor profile—chocolate lovers will appreciate the change!
• Experiment with toppings: Adding flaky finishing salt is optional but can enhance the sweetness of the caramel, providing an irresistible contrast that elevates every bite.

How to Serve Caramel Coconut Bars

Serving your Caramel Coconut Bars is as fun as making them! Whether for a gathering or simply enjoying at home, here are some wonderful ideas to present this delicious dessert.

Garnishes

• Toasted coconut flakes: Sprinkle some toasted coconut on top for added crunch and to enhance that tropical flavor.
• Chocolate shavings: A light dusting of chocolate shavings can add elegance and make your bars look extra decadent.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the bars, creating a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
• Fresh berries: A side of fresh raspberries or strawberries not only adds color but also introduces a refreshing tartness that balances the sweetness of the bars.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free option, serve with a dollop of whipped coconut cream. Its lightness complements the richness of the caramel perfectly.
• Coffee or tea: Pairing these bars with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or herbal tea makes for a lovely afternoon treat, enhancing the overall experience with their warm flavors.

Enjoy these tips and serving suggestions to make your Caramel Coconut Bars an unforgettable treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Caramel Coconut Bars are perfect for meal prep! They keep well, allowing you to enjoy a sweet treat throughout the week without any hassle.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate the bars for up to a week.
• If you notice the chocolate drizzle becoming soft, keep them in the fridge to maintain their shape.

Freezing

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped bars in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy!

Reheating

• If you prefer warm bars, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the bars on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Avoid microwaving as it may make the chocolate too soft.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Caramel Coconut Bars!

Can I substitute ingredients in the Caramel Coconut Bars recipe?

Absolutely! You can use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free option. Additionally, try using maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan alternative.

How do I achieve perfectly layered Caramel Coconut Bars?

To get those lovely layers, ensure your shortbread crust is baked until golden before adding the caramel coconut filling. Let each layer cool slightly before proceeding with the next.

Are there any alternatives to sweetened shredded coconut in Caramel Coconut Bars?

Yes! Unsweetened shredded coconut can be used if you prefer less sweetness. Just add a bit more sugar to balance it out.

How long do Caramel Coconut Bars last?

When stored properly, these delicious treats last up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Caramel Coconut Bars! With their rich layers and sweet flavors inspired by classic favorites, they are bound to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy every gooey bite, and don’t hesitate to share your creations—I would love to hear how they turned out!