There’s something undeniably magical about the combination of creamy, rich coconut and buttery, crisp crust. It’s a flavor profile that instantly transports you to a tropical paradise, even if you’re just enjoying a quiet afternoon at home. Coconut Cream Pie Bars take this delightful combination and transform it into a convenient, shareable dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. From summer picnics to holiday gatherings, these bars offer a luscious, creamy treat with the perfect balance of sweetness and coconut flavor.
I first encountered this recipe at a family potluck, where it was introduced by my cousin, who had just returned from a vacation in the Caribbean. The pie bars were a huge hit, and I was immediately captivated by their smooth, velvety filling and the crunchy, buttery crust. They quickly became a staple at our gatherings, and over time, I’ve perfected the recipe to suit my family’s tastes. The process of making these bars is a labor of love, but the end result is well worth it. Each bite delivers a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, making them an irresistible treat that’s always met with delight.
Let’s dive into the details of how to make these scrumptious Coconut Cream Pie Bars.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
1 cup (2 sticks) butter
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup powdered sugar
For the Coconut Cream Filling:
3 cups half-and-half
3 cups coconut milk
4 eggs
1 1/2 cups white sugar
2/3 cup cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups flaked coconut
1/2 teaspoon coconut extract
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Whipped Cream Topping:
2 cups heavy whipping cream
1 tablespoon cold water (for stabilizing)
1 teaspoon gelatin (for stabilizing)
3-4 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 cup coconut, for toasting
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shortbread Crust
Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your crust will bake evenly and turn out perfectly crisp.
Prepare the Baking Dish: Line a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with a foil sling. To do this, place one long sheet of foil across the length of the dish and two shorter sheets overlapping across the width. The overhang will help you lift the bars out of the dish once they’re cooled.
Make the Crust: In a large bowl or food processor, combine 1 cup of butter, 2 cups of all-purpose flour, and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar. Cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. If using a food processor, pulse about 6-10 times until you achieve this texture. Press the mixture firmly into the prepared baking dish using the bottom of a glass or your hands to ensure it’s even.
Bake the Crust: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the crust is light brown. Once baked, set the dish on a wire rack to cool completely before adding the filling.
Step 2: Toast the Coconut
Toast the Coconut: While the crust is baking, spread about 1 cup of coconut flakes on a baking sheet. Toast in the oven for 3-6 minutes, stirring every minute or so, until the coconut is golden brown. Transfer the toasted coconut to a plate to cool completely. This step enhances the flavor of the coconut and adds a crunchy texture to the topping.
Step 3: Make the Coconut Cream Filling
Combine Ingredients: In a large saucepan, whisk together 3 cups of half-and-half, 3 cups of coconut milk, 4 eggs, 1 1/2 cups of white sugar, 2/3 cup of cornstarch, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Cook over medium-low heat, whisking constantly until the mixture reaches a boil and thickens. This can take anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes, so be patient and keep whisking to avoid lumps.
Add Flavorings: Once the mixture is thick and bubbling, remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the 1 1/2 cups of untoasted coconut, 1/2 teaspoon of coconut extract, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
Pour the Filling: Pour the coconut cream filling over the cooled shortbread crust. Allow it to cool slightly at room temperature before transferring it to the refrigerator. Chill for 2 to 4 hours, or until the filling is set and firm.
Step 4: Make the Whipped Cream Topping
Prepare the Gelatin: In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of cold water with 1 teaspoon of gelatin. Let it sit for 2 minutes to soften. Then, microwave the mixture for 30 seconds and whisk to dissolve the gelatin.
Whip the Cream: Using a chilled bowl and beaters, whip 2 cups of heavy cream with 3-4 tablespoons of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Add the gelatin mixture halfway through whipping. This helps stabilize the whipped cream, keeping it from deflating.
Top the Bars: Dollop the whipped cream over the chilled coconut cream filling. Gently spread it into an even layer. Sprinkle the cooled toasted coconut on top of the whipped cream.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Chill and Slice: Chill the bars until you’re ready to serve, allowing the whipped cream to set up properly. Use the foil sling to lift the bars out of the dish. Slice into squares with a sharp knife.
Enjoy: Serve these bars chilled for the best texture and flavor. The combination of the buttery crust, creamy filling, and light whipped topping creates a dessert that’s both indulgent and refreshing.
Variations and Substitutions
Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour in the crust with a gluten-free baking blend.
Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut cream or almond milk in place of the half-and-half and coconut milk, and dairy-free butter for the crust.
Flavor Additions: Add chocolate shavings or a drizzle of chocolate sauce on top of the whipped cream for a chocolate-coconut twist.
Fruit Additions: Incorporate fresh fruit like raspberries or mango on top of the whipped cream for added flavor and a burst of color.
Conclusion
Coconut Cream Pie Bars are a versatile and delightful dessert that combines the best elements of a classic pie with the convenience of bars. With their buttery crust, creamy coconut filling, and light whipped cream topping, these bars are perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive celebrations.
The process of making these bars might seem involved, but each step is worth the effort for the incredible taste and texture you’ll achieve. The rich, tropical flavor of coconut paired with the smooth, creamy filling and airy whipped cream creates a dessert that’s as pleasing to the palate as it is to the eye.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of coconut desserts or new to this flavor profile, Coconut Cream Pie Bars are sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and enjoy a slice of tropical bliss that will transport you to a sun-soaked paradise with every bite.
