Caramel Coconut Bars

These Caramel Coconut Bars are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. With their soft and gooey layers, they bring together a buttery shortbread crust, a rich caramel coconut filling, and a luscious milk chocolate drizzle. Inspired by the beloved Samoas Girl Scout cookies, these bars are sure to impress family and friends at parties, picnics, or as an everyday dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of buttery shortbread, sweet caramel, and toasted coconut creates a flavor profile that is both unique and addictive.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these bars are perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile Treat: Whether you’re serving them at a birthday party or enjoying them as an afternoon snack, these bars fit every occasion seamlessly.
• Make Ahead Option: These bars can be made in advance and stored for later, making them a great choice for busy days.
• Customizable Toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings like nuts or additional chocolate drizzles for extra flair!

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will make your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to make your Caramel Coconut Bars.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish (9×9 inch)
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer (optional)
• Saucepan
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A good quality baking dish ensures even cooking, giving you perfectly baked layers.
• Electric mixer: While not necessary, it makes mixing the dough easier and saves time.
• Rubber spatula: This tool helps in folding ingredients without overmixing and scraping down the sides effectively.

Ingredients

These soft and gooey bars feature three delicious layers: shortbread cookie crust, caramel coconut filling, and a milk chocolate drizzle. This recipe is inspired by Samoas Girl Scout cookies.

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)

How to Make Caramel Coconut Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×9 inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Step 2: Prepare the Shortbread Crust

1. In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and salt until creamy.
2. Gradually add in the all-purpose flour, mixing until just combined.
3. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
4. Bake for about 15 minutes or until lightly golden.

Step 3: Make the Caramel Coconut Filling

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the unsalted butter, brown sugar, honey, and heavy cream. Stir until melted and smooth.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the salt, sweetened shredded coconut, and vanilla extract. Mix until well incorporated.

Step 4: Assemble the Bars

1. Pour the caramel coconut mixture over the pre-baked shortbread crust, spreading it evenly.
2. Bake again for another 12-15 minutes until bubbly.

Step 5: Add Chocolate Drizzle

1. While still warm, melt the milk chocolate chips. Drizzle over the top of the caramel coconut layer using a spoon or piping bag.
2. Sprinkle with flaky finishing salt if desired.

Step 6: Cool & Serve

Allow to cool completely before cutting into squares. Enjoy your homemade Caramel Coconut Bars!

How to Serve Caramel Coconut Bars

Serving Caramel Coconut Bars can enhance their deliciousness and create a delightful experience for your guests. Here are some creative ideas to enjoy these sweet treats.

Pair with Coffee

• A rich cup of coffee complements the sweetness of the bars perfectly, balancing flavors and enhancing your dessert experience.

Ice Cream Topping

• Crumble Caramel Coconut Bars over a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream for a decadent dessert that brings out the tropical flavors.

Chocolate Drizzle

• Add an extra drizzle of melted chocolate on top before serving for an indulgent touch that elevates the appearance and taste.

Fresh Fruit Slices

• Serve alongside fresh fruit slices like strawberries or oranges to add a refreshing contrast to the rich bars.

Flavored Whipped Cream

• Top with flavored whipped cream, such as coconut or vanilla, to add a light and fluffy texture that pairs excellently with the gooey filling.

Pin for later!

How to Perfect Caramel Coconut Bars

Perfecting your Caramel Coconut Bars is all about attention to detail. Follow these tips for bar perfection.

• Use Room Temperature Butter: Soften butter before mixing to ensure a smooth and creamy texture in your crust.

• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix until just combined to keep your shortbread crust tender rather than tough.

• Watch Baking Time Closely: Keep an eye on the baking time to avoid overcooking; golden edges signify they are ready.

• Cool Completely Before Cutting: Allow the bars to cool fully in the pan before cutting into squares for clean edges.

• Store Properly: Keep leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Caramel Coconut Bars

Pairing side dishes with your Caramel Coconut Bars can create a well-rounded dessert table. Here are some excellent suggestions.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the bars.

2. Coconut Sorbet: This light and refreshing sorbet enhances coconut flavors while providing a cool contrast.

3. Chocolate Mousse: Rich and creamy mousse complements the bars’ texture, making every bite indulgent.

4. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses like brie or goat cheese can offer savory notes against the sweet backdrop of the bars.

5. Nutty Granola: Serve alongside homemade granola for added crunch and texture that pairs well with caramel flavors.

6. Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai tea provide a lovely aromatic accompaniment, balancing sweetness with spice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Caramel Coconut Bars can be straightforward, but avoiding common pitfalls will ensure you achieve the best results. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Ignoring Ingredient Temperature: Always use softened butter for the crust. Cold butter can lead to a tough texture.
• Overmixing the Dough: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can make the bars dense instead of light and chewy.
• Skipping the Salt: Salt enhances flavors. Don’t skip it, even if you’re using sweet ingredients like caramel and coconut.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Correctly: Use proper measuring techniques, especially for flour and sugar. Level off measuring cups for accuracy.
• Skipping the Cooling Time: Allow bars to cool completely before cutting. This helps them set properly and makes cutting easier.

Pin for later!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• They last up to one week in the fridge.

Freezing Caramel Coconut Bars

• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating Caramel Coconut Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place bars on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual bars on low power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat. Cover with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Caramel Coconut Bars, answered for your convenience.

Can I use unsweetened coconut?

Yes, you can use unsweetened coconut, but it may alter the sweetness of your bars slightly.

How can I customize my Caramel Coconut Bars?

Feel free to add nuts or swap chocolate types! Almonds or dark chocolate add different flavors and textures.

What’s the best way to cut these bars?

For clean cuts, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts. This prevents sticking.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.

Final Thoughts

These Caramel Coconut Bars are not only a delicious treat but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can customize them with different toppings or mix-ins to suit your taste. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delightful dessert that everyone will love!