Caramel Coconut Bars

If you’re looking for a treat that’s sure to impress, these Caramel Coconut Bars are just the ticket! Imagine biting into a soft and gooey bar with a delightful combination of flavors and textures. This recipe is truly special because it brings the nostalgic taste of Samoas Girl Scout cookies right into your kitchen. Whether you’re whipping these up for a busy weeknight dessert or a family gathering, these bars are bound to be a hit!

The beauty of these Caramel Coconut Bars lies not only in their deliciousness but also in their simplicity. You can easily make them ahead of time, so they’re perfect for meal prep or when unexpected guests drop by. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a favorite in your home too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, these bars come together quickly—perfect for any skill level!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet caramel and coconut combination.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare these bars in advance, so you can enjoy them fresh whenever you like.
• Versatile Treat: Great for parties, potlucks, or just a cozy night in with your favorite movie.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making these Caramel Coconut Bars is super easy with just a handful of wholesome ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful dessert:

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 Topping

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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or almonds for an extra crunch.
• Change the Chocolate: Use dark chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate for a richer flavor.
• Go Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut cream for heavy cream and use dairy-free chocolate chips.
• Mix Up the Sweetness: Try using maple syrup instead of honey for a different flavor profile.

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, brown sugar, and salt until light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the mixture, giving your crust that melt-in-your-mouth texture. Gradually add in the flour until just combined—be careful not to overmix! Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of an 8-inch square baking dish.

Step 2: Bake the Crust

Bake your shortbread crust in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until it turns lightly golden at the edges. Baking it first ensures that it holds its shape while supporting those delicious caramel layers on top.

Step 3: Create the Caramel Coconut Filling

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter pieces, brown sugar, honey, heavy cream, and salt. Stir gently until everything melts together smoothly. This step creates that luscious caramel filling that makes these bars so irresistible! Once melted and combined, fold in the shredded coconut and vanilla extract.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake Again

Once your crust has finished baking, pour that beautiful caramel coconut filling evenly over it. Return to the oven for an additional 12-15 minutes until bubbly. The smell will be heavenly—this is where patience really pays off!

Step 5: Add Chocolate Drizzle

After removing from the oven, let your bars cool completely in the pan. Melt your milk chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl or over a double boiler until smooth. Drizzle this melted chocolate over your cooled bars for that perfect finishing touch!

Step 6: Slice and Enjoy!

Once everything has set, slice into squares and sprinkle with flaky finishing salt if desired. These Caramel Coconut Bars are now ready to be enjoyed! Perfectly gooey with every bite—your friends and family will be coming back for more!

Pro Tips for Making Caramel Coconut Bars

Getting the perfect texture and flavor in your Caramel Coconut Bars is all about the little details. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your bars turn out delicious every time!

• Use room temperature butter: Starting with softened butter helps create a smooth shortbread crust, which is essential for a great base. Cold butter can lead to a crumbly texture that won’t hold together properly.
• Watch the caramel closely: When cooking the caramel filling, keep an eye on it as it can go from perfectly gooey to burnt in seconds. Stirring constantly will help prevent sticking and ensure an even consistency.
• Let them cool completely: After baking, allow your bars to cool completely before cutting into them. This will help the layers set properly and make for cleaner cuts.
• Opt for high-quality chocolate chips: Using good quality milk chocolate chips will enhance the overall flavor of your bars. They melt beautifully and add that rich chocolatey drizzle that everyone loves.
• Experiment with toppings: Don’t be afraid to get creative! Adding a sprinkle of flaky finishing salt or toasted coconut on top can add an extra layer of flavor and texture that elevates these bars even further.

How to Serve Caramel Coconut Bars

These Caramel Coconut Bars are not just a treat; they’re also a feast for the eyes! The layers of creamy caramel, chewy coconut, and smooth chocolate make them irresistible. Here are some delightful ideas for serving these scrumptious bars.

Garnishes

• Flaky sea salt: A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top adds a salty contrast to the sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor.
• Toasted coconut flakes: For an extra crunch and tropical flair, top your bars with toasted coconut flakes before serving.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits like berries, melons, and citrus provides a bright contrast to the richness of the bars.
• Vanilla ice cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with the gooey caramel and chocolate flavors, creating a delightful dessert experience.
• Whipped coconut cream: Light and airy whipped coconut cream complements the bars perfectly while keeping things dairy-free. It’s a deliciously creamy addition!
• Coffee or tea: Serving your Caramel Coconut Bars with a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea enhances their flavors and makes for a cozy dessert pairing.

Enjoy crafting these delicious treats, and remember—sharing is caring! Your friends and family will love you for it!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Caramel Coconut Bars are perfect for meal prep or satisfying that sweet tooth throughout the week. You can easily make them ahead of time, and with proper storage, they’ll stay delicious for days!

Storing Leftovers

• Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• If you prefer, refrigerate them to extend freshness; they’ll last up to a week in the fridge.
• Ensure that the bars are completely cool before storing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing

• Wrap the cooled bars tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped bars in a freezer-safe bag or container for added protection.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months—just remember to label with the date!

Reheating

• For best results, thaw frozen bars overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• If you want a warm treat, microwave individual pieces for about 10-15 seconds until just warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can enjoy them cold straight from the fridge!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Caramel Coconut Bars.

Can I use unsweetened coconut instead of sweetened for Caramel Coconut Bars?

While you can use unsweetened coconut, it may result in a less sweet flavor. To maintain that delightful taste, I recommend sticking with sweetened shredded coconut.

How should I store my Caramel Coconut Bars?

To keep your Caramel Coconut Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate them for a week.

Can I substitute honey in this recipe?

Yes! If you’re looking for an alternative to honey, you can use maple syrup or agave nectar. Both options will provide a similar sweetness.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Caramel Coconut Bars! Their delightful layers of flavor make them perfect for sharing or enjoying solo with a cup of tea. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a little treat after dinner, these bars are sure to impress. Happy baking, and I can’t wait for you to try this recipe!