Caramel Coconut Bars

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings smiles to everyone’s faces, these Caramel Coconut Bars are just the ticket! Inspired by those nostalgic Samoas Girl Scout cookies, this recipe is a personal favorite of mine. The combination of a buttery shortbread crust, gooey caramel coconut filling, and a drizzle of milk chocolate creates a symphony of flavors and textures that is simply irresistible. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, these bars will shine bright on any dessert table.

Baking can often feel daunting, but trust me—this recipe is super easy to follow! You’ll find yourself making these Caramel Coconut Bars for every occasion once you see how quickly they disappear.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to make: With just 25 minutes of prep time, you’ll have delicious bars ready in no time!
• Family-friendly treat: Kids and adults alike will adore the sweet coconut and caramel layers.
• Perfect for sharing: These bars are great for potlucks or as gifts—you’ll be the star of any gathering!
• Make ahead option: Bake them in advance and store them for an easy dessert whenever the craving strikes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create these incredible Caramel Coconut Bars. You might already have many of these in your pantry!

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

The beauty of these Caramel Coconut Bars lies in their flexibility! Feel free to get creative with your own twist on this classic recipe.

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped almonds or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Use dark chocolate: Swap the milk chocolate chips with dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
• Coconut alternative: If you want a different taste, try using chopped dried fruits like apricots or raisins instead of coconut.
• Make it vegan: Substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives such as coconut oil and almond milk.

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 it’s light and fluffy. This step is important because it helps create that tender texture we love in shortbread. Gradually add in the salt and flour, mixing until just combined. Press this mixture firmly into a lined baking dish. Bake for about 15 minutes until lightly golden on top—this will be your delicious base!

Step 2: Make the Caramel Coconut Filling

While your crust is baking, let’s prepare that scrumptious filling. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter pieces, brown sugar, honey, heavy cream, and salt. Stir gently until everything melts together and becomes smooth. It’s essential to keep stirring so nothing sticks to the bottom! Once melted, fold in the shredded coconut and vanilla extract until everything is well coated. Pour this gooey mixture over your baked crust while it’s still hot.

Step 3: Bake Again

Return your baking dish to the oven and let it bake for another 12 minutes. This allows all those flavors to meld together beautifully. It’s such an exciting moment when you see those edges bubbling with goodness!

Step 4: Add the Chocolate Drizzle

Once your bars have cooled completely, melt your milk chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl at 30-second intervals until smooth. Drizzle this luscious chocolate over the top of your cooled caramel coconut filling. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle on some flaky finishing salt for that perfect sweet-and-salty contrast!

Step 5: Slice and Enjoy!

After letting everything set for at least an hour in the fridge, slice them into squares—or rectangles if you prefer—and serve! Watch as everyone enjoys these delectable Caramel Coconut Bars; I promise they won’t last long!

Pro Tips for Making Caramel Coconut Bars

Making Caramel Coconut Bars is a delightful journey, and with a few handy tips, you can ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature butter: Softened butter blends more easily into the cookie crust, ensuring a tender texture. Cold butter can lead to a dense base that doesn’t rise as well.

• Monitor the caramel closely: Caramel can go from perfect to burnt in seconds. Keep an eye on it while it cooks, stirring gently to achieve that beautiful golden hue without overcooking.

• Chill before slicing: Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them. This helps the layers set properly and makes for cleaner slices!

• Experiment with chocolate: While milk chocolate is delicious, consider using dark chocolate for a richer taste or even white chocolate for a sweeter profile. Each will give your bars a unique twist!

• Add flaky salt for contrast: A sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top enhances the sweetness of the caramel and coconut filling, creating a delightful balance of flavors.

How to Serve Caramel Coconut Bars

Presentation can elevate your Caramel Coconut Bars from simple treats to show-stopping desserts! Here are some ideas on how to serve them beautifully.

Garnishes

• Toasted coconut flakes: Sprinkle some toasted coconut on top for added texture and flavor. It enhances the tropical vibe of the bars!

• Chocolate drizzle: For an extra touch of indulgence, drizzle melted chocolate over each bar just before serving. It adds visual appeal and enhances the chocolatey goodness.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with these bars, providing a cool contrast to their rich flavors. Plus, who doesn’t love ice cream?

• Fresh fruit salad: A light fruit salad with berries or tropical fruits complements the sweetness of the bars and adds freshness to your dessert table.

• Coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or tea balances out the sweetness and provides a cozy feel, making it an ideal pairing for afternoon snacks or dessert gatherings.

• Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free option that still feels indulgent, serve your bars with whipped coconut cream. It’s light, fluffy, and perfectly matches the coconut theme!

Now that you have all these serving suggestions and pro tips at your fingertips, it’s time to whip up those delicious Caramel Coconut Bars! Enjoy every gooey bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Caramel Coconut Bars are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them in advance and store them for later, making them a convenient treat for any occasion.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator where they will last up to a week.
• If you want to prevent sticking, place parchment paper between layers of bars.

Freezing

• Allow the bars to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label your container!

Reheating

• To enjoy the bars warm, simply microwave one bar for about 10-15 seconds.
• For a crispier texture, you can also place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about Caramel Coconut Bars:

Can I use a different type of chocolate for my Caramel Coconut Bars?

Absolutely! While milk chocolate gives a nice sweetness, you can opt for dark chocolate or even white chocolate to suit your taste preferences.

How do I ensure my Caramel Coconut Bars turn out chewy?

To achieve that chewy texture, be careful not to overbake the caramel layer. The mixture should bubble gently but not boil aggressively.

Can I make these Caramel Coconut Bars gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that works well for baking. This way, everyone can enjoy these delicious treats!

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your kitchen as it has to mine. These Caramel Coconut Bars are not only deliciously indulgent but also perfect for sharing with family and friends. Enjoy making and savoring every gooey bite, and don’t hesitate to get creative with your toppings! Happy baking!