Coconut Cream Pie Bars

Coconut Cream Pie Bars are a delightful treat that brings the rich flavors of coconut together with a creamy filling and a buttery crust. These bars are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a picnic, or simply a sweet snack at home. Their chewy texture and delicious taste make them a favorite among coconut lovers.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Coconut Cream Pie Bars is a great choice because they are easy to prepare and require simple ingredients. The combination of graham cracker crust, coconut, and creamy filling is a crowd-pleaser. Plus, these bars can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator, making them perfect for busy days. You can enjoy a sweet dessert without spending hours in the kitchen!

How to Make Coconut Cream Pie Bars

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 1/2 cups shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1 cup white chocolate chips
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
3. In a separate bowl, combine sweetened condensed milk, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans. Spread this mixture over the crust.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool completely.
5. Heat heavy cream in a saucepan until just boiling. Stir in white chocolate chips until smooth, then add vanilla extract.
6. Pour the white chocolate mixture over the cooled coconut layer and chill for at least 2 hours.
7. Cut into bars and serve.

How to Serve Coconut Cream Pie Bars

Coconut Cream Pie Bars are best served chilled. You can cut them into squares or rectangles and place them on a serving platter. They are great enjoyed plain, or you can top them with extra shredded coconut or whipped cream for added flavor and decoration. They also pair well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a more indulgent dessert.

How to Store Coconut Cream Pie Bars

To store Coconut Cream Pie Bars, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to five days. If you prefer to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months.

Tips to Make Coconut Cream Pie Bars

• Make sure to press the graham cracker crust firmly into the pan to create a solid base.
• Use sweetened shredded coconut for the best flavor and texture.
• If you want more nutty flavor, you can toast the pecans before adding them to the filling.
• For a richer taste, try using dark chocolate chips instead of white chocolate chips.

Variation

If you want to switch things up, consider adding fruit such as sliced bananas or pineapple for added freshness. You can also substitute the pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor. Experiment with different toppings like chocolate drizzle or caramel sauce for a fun twist!

FAQs

1. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes! Coconut Cream Pie Bars can be made a day in advance. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

2. Can I use unsweetened coconut?
You can use unsweetened coconut, but it will change the flavor. Sweetened coconut adds a nice sweetness that balances the rich filling.

3. What if I don’t have graham crackers?
If you don’t have graham crackers, you can use digestive biscuits or vanilla wafer cookies as a substitute for the crust.