Introduction
Imagine biting into a treat that transports you to a tropical paradise with each delicious morsel. These Coconut Cream Dream Bars are the perfect blend of sweet, creamy, and absolutely dreamy! With a crumbly coconut crust and a rich filling that combines the lusciousness of sweetened condensed milk and vibrant unsweetened shredded coconut, every bite offers a burst of flavor. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking to indulge your sweet tooth, these bars are sure to impress!
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup heavy cream, whipped
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 16 bars
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking dish to ensure your bars come out smoothly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, shredded coconut, powdered sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is well combined and resembles a crumbly dough.
- Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating an even crust.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until it turns a lovely light golden brown. Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Meanwhile, in a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, sour cream, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Gently fold in the unsweetened shredded coconut, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the filling.
- Pour this delicious filling over the baked crust, spreading it out evenly for a lovely finish.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and lightly golden on top.
- Once baked, allow the bars to cool at room temperature for a bit, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up — patience will pay off!
- After chilling, cut into squares and feel free to add a dollop of whipped cream on top for that extra touch of indulgence!
Notes or Tips
For a tropical twist, consider garnishing your Coconut Cream Dream Bars with extra toasted coconut flakes or even a sprinkle of grated lime zest! These add a bright flavor contrast that enhances the overall taste. Make sure to store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator — if there are any leftovers, that is!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe involves a simple technique of mixing and baking that even novice bakers can tackle with confidence. Pressing the crust firmly ensures a sturdy base that holds up well to the filling. Folding in the coconut gently preserves the lightness of the whipped cream, giving the filling a beautiful texture that’s both luscious and light. Patience while cooling is also key to a perfect bite!
FAQ
Can I make these bars ahead of time? Absolutely! These bars are perfect for making a day or two in advance; just keep them stored in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
What can I substitute for sour cream? If you don’t have sour cream on hand, Greek yogurt works wonderfully as a substitute, providing a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture.
Conclusion
Your friends and family will be amazed by these Coconut Cream Dream Bars — they’ll never guess how simple they were to create! Perfect for any occasion, these bars are sure to become a favorite treat in your home. So grab your mixing bowl and baking dish, and get ready to make some magic happen in your kitchen!