Caramel Coconut Bars

These Caramel Coconut Bars are a delightful treat that brings together the rich flavors of buttery shortbread, gooey caramel, and sweet coconut, all topped with a luscious milk chocolate drizzle. Perfect for dessert tables, parties, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these bars are reminiscent of the beloved Samoas Girl Scout cookies. Not only are they indulgent, but they also offer a unique homemade twist that will impress family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these bars can be whipped up quickly.
• Decadent Flavor: The combination of caramel and coconut creates a deliciously rich taste that is hard to resist.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for any occasion—birthdays, holidays, or just a cozy night in.
• Great for Sharing: Cut them into small squares for a crowd-pleasing dessert that everyone will enjoy.
• Inspired by Favorites: These bars capture the essence of Samoas cookies but are made fresh at home.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to make the process smoother. Having everything ready will help you create these Caramel Coconut Bars with ease.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Whisk
• Baking dish (9×9 inches)
• Parchment paper
• Saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently without mess.
• Baking dish: A 9×9-inch dish is perfect for achieving the right thickness in your bars.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

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 Chocolate Drizzle

• 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). This ensures even baking for your Caramel Coconut Bars.

Step 2: Prepare the Shortbread Crust

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and salt. Mix until creamy.
2. Gradually add in the flour while stirring until combined.
3. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased or parchment-lined baking dish.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until lightly golden.

Step 3: Make the Caramel Coconut Filling

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the pieces of butter.
2. Stir in brown sugar and honey until well combined.
3. Add heavy cream and salt; mix continuously until it reaches a gentle boil.
4. Remove from heat and fold in shredded coconut and vanilla extract.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake Again

1. Pour the caramel coconut mixture over the baked shortbread crust.
2. Spread evenly with a spatula if needed.
3. Return to oven and bake for an additional 12 minutes or until bubbly.

Step 5: Add Chocolate Drizzle

1. Once baked, remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan.
2. Melt milk chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl or over low heat on the stove.
3. Drizzle melted chocolate over cooled bars using a spoon or piping bag.

Step 6: Serve Your Bars

Cut into squares once set. Optionally sprinkle flaky finishing salt on top before serving for an extra touch! Enjoy your homemade Caramel Coconut Bars!

How to Serve Caramel Coconut Bars

Caramel Coconut Bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or just indulging after dinner, these bars are sure to please.

With a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream complements the gooey caramel and coconut filling perfectly.
• Coconut Sorbet: For a tropical twist, serve these bars with coconut sorbet for an extra burst of flavor.

Drizzled with Extra Caramel Sauce

• Homemade Caramel: A drizzle of warm homemade caramel sauce adds an extra layer of sweetness and richness.
• Chocolate Syrup: If you love chocolate, adding a bit of chocolate syrup enhances the dessert experience.

Paired with Fresh Fruit

• Berries: A side of fresh strawberries or raspberries provides a tart contrast to the sweet bars.
• Banana Slices: Sliced bananas add creaminess, balancing the flavors beautifully.

With Coffee or Tea

• Espresso: The rich flavor of espresso pairs well with the sweetness, making it a perfect afternoon snack.
• Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea can complement the dessert without overpowering its taste.

How to Perfect Caramel Coconut Bars

To ensure your Caramel Coconut Bars turn out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.

• Use Softened Butter: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing and a smooth texture.
• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon and level your flour to avoid dense bars. Too much flour can lead to dryness.
• Don’t Skip the Cooling Time: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting. This helps them set properly and maintain their shape.
• Use Quality Chocolate Chips: Opt for high-quality milk chocolate chips for a rich and decadent topping.
• Control Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature for even baking.

Best Side Dishes for Caramel Coconut Bars

When serving Caramel Coconut Bars, consider pairing them with side dishes that enhance their flavor. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits brings brightness to your dessert table.
2. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses balances sweetness with savory notes—try sharp cheddar or creamy brie.
3. Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream adds a delightful touch when served alongside these bars.
4. Coconut Chia Pudding: This pudding echoes the flavor profile of the bars, creating a cohesive dessert experience.
5. Nutty Granola: Crunchy granola offers a nice texture contrast and can be sprinkled on top for added crunch.
6. Minty Yogurt Dip: A cool yogurt dip with mint complements the coconut flavors and gives a refreshing twist.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Caramel Coconut Bars, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the butter softening: Always soften butter for the crust. This helps achieve a smooth texture and ensures it blends well with sugar.
• Not leveling flour: Spoon and level your flour correctly. Too much flour can make the bars dry instead of gooey.
• Rushing the caramel layer: Allow the caramel mixture to simmer properly. This enhances flavor and ensures a perfect consistency.
• Using low-quality chocolate: Choose high-quality milk chocolate chips for drizzling. It makes a big difference in taste!
• Neglecting to chill: Don’t skip chilling the bars before cutting. This helps them set properly, ensuring clean slices.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store the bars in an airtight container.
• They will keep well in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing Caramel Coconut Bars

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating Caramel Coconut Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-10 minutes.
• Microwave: Use medium power to heat individually for 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet on low heat, cover, and warm for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries regarding Caramel Coconut Bars that you might find helpful.

Can I use unsweetened coconut?

Yes, but you may want to adjust the sugar levels since unsweetened coconut is less sweet than shredded coconut.

How do I know when the caramel is ready?

The caramel should be bubbling gently and have a rich amber color when it’s ready. Avoid boiling too rapidly.

Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can swap out honey for maple syrup or use different types of chocolate for drizzling.

Are these bars gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Caramel Coconut Bars, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.

Final Thoughts

These Caramel Coconut Bars are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding nuts or using dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate. Try this recipe today, and enjoy a delightful treat that captures the essence of your favorite cookies!