Name: Almond Coconut Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 stick unsalted butter (at room temperature); 1 cup granulated white sugar (divided); 1 teaspoon salt; 1 large egg; 1 large egg yolk (save the white for the filling); 1 cup almond paste; 1 medium lemon (juiced); 2 large eggs (separated); 2 teaspoons granulated white sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut

If you’re searching for a delightful treat that balances nutty flavors with a tropical twist, look no further than these Almond Coconut Bars. With a buttery, crumbly base and a sweet, chewy filling, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings for something special. Perfect for a snack, dessert, or even as a gift, these bars combine the rich essence of almonds with the tropical allure of coconut, making them a standout addition to any dessert table.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

Almond Coconut Bars are not just another dessert; they are an experience. The combination of flavors creates a taste sensation that is both comforting and exciting. These bars are perfect for a variety of occasions—whether you’re hosting a gathering, looking for a midday snack, or craving something sweet after dinner. They are easy to make, can be prepared ahead of time, and are sure to impress your friends and family. Plus, the crunchy coconut topping adds a delightful texture that complements the creamy almond filling.

What’s in the Bowl

To create these decadent Almond Coconut Bars, you will need the following ingredients:

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 stick unsalted butter, at room temperature
1 cup granulated white sugar (divided)
1 teaspoon salt
1 large egg
1 large egg yolk (save the white for the filling)
1 cup almond paste
1 medium lemon, juiced
2 large eggs, separated
2 teaspoons granulated white sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut

Before You Start: Equipment

Make sure to gather the following equipment before you begin:

9×9-inch baking pan
Mixing bowls (large and medium)
Electric mixer or whisk
Spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Juicer (for the lemon)
Oven mitts

From Start to Finish: Almond Coconut Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking pan by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Make the Base

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer.

Step 3: Add the Eggs

Beat in the whole egg and egg yolk until well combined. Add in the salt and 1 cup of flour, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 4: Spread the Base

Press the mixture into the bottom of your prepared baking pan evenly. Use a spatula or your fingers to ensure it’s spread out evenly across the pan.

Step 5: Prepare the Filling

In a medium bowl, combine the almond paste, the reserved egg white, 2 large eggs, 2 teaspoons of granulated sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Add the Coconut

Fold in the shredded coconut into the filling mixture until well distributed.

Step 7: Bake

Pour the filling over the crust in the baking pan, spreading it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and a light golden color.

Step 8: Cool and Slice

Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. After it’s completely cooled, slice into bars and enjoy!

Smart Substitutions

If you’re looking to customize these Almond Coconut Bars, here are some smart substitutions you can try:

For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Use coconut oil instead of unsalted butter for a dairy-free version.
If you don’t have almond paste, you can blend blanched almonds with a bit of sugar and almond extract to create your own.
Substitute sweetened shredded coconut with unsweetened coconut for a lower sugar option.

Method to the Madness

Creating these Almond Coconut Bars is straightforward, but here are a few tips to ensure your success:

Make sure your butter is at room temperature to achieve a smooth batter. If it’s too cold, it won’t cream properly with the sugar. When mixing the filling, avoid overmixing to keep it light and fluffy. Let the bars cool completely before cutting them; this will help them hold their shape and make for cleaner slices.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

These Almond Coconut Bars are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and store them in an airtight container. They stay fresh for up to a week at room temperature or can be refrigerated for up to two weeks. For longer storage, wrap them in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight before enjoying.

Next Up in Your Queue

Wrap-Up

The journey of creating these Almond Coconut Bars is not only about the final product but also about the joy of baking. Their delightful flavor and chewy texture make them a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of coffee or as a sweet dessert after dinner, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

These Almond Coconut Bars are a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients coming together to create something extraordinary. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a slice of sunny paradise right at home!