Craving a sweet treat that’s easy to whip up and oh-so-indulgent? Look no further than these delightful Gooey Coconut Bars. An irresistible combination of chewy coconut, rich buttery crust, and a hint of vanilla, these bars are perfect for satisfying your dessert cravings or impressing guests at your next gathering. Let’s dive into the recipe and get ready to enjoy a slice of coconut heaven!
**Gooey Coconut Bars**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– ½ cup powdered sugar
– ¾ cup unsalted butter, cold
– 3 large eggs
– 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
– ½ teaspoon baking powder
– Pinch of salt
– Additional powdered sugar for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and ½ cup of powdered sugar. Cut in the cold unsalted butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust.
3. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly while you prepare the coconut filling.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined. Fold in the sweetened shredded coconut, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
5. Pour the coconut filling over the slightly cooled crust and spread it out evenly.
6. Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the coconut layer is set and golden brown on top.
7. Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
8. Once completely cooled, dust the top of the bars with additional powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.
9. Cut into squares or bars and serve. Enjoy the gooey goodness of these coconut bars with a cup of tea or coffee, or pack them up for a delightful picnic treat.
These Gooey Coconut Bars are a wonderful way to add a taste of the tropics to your day, and they’re sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, celebrating a special occasion, or simply want to treat yourself to a cozy indulgence, these bars are the perfect choice. Give this recipe a try and savor the magic of coconut in every gooey bite!
