
Coconut Butter Bars
Looking for the perfect dessert bar recipe? These coconut butter bars combine a buttery shortbread crust with a sweet, chewy coconut topping that’s absolutely irresistible!
These rich, buttery coconut bars are the ultimate sweet treat for any occasion. With their tender shortbread crust and luscious coconut topping, they’re guaranteed to be the star of your next potluck, bake sale, or family gathering. Best of all, they’re incredibly easy to make with simple pantry ingredients!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Super Easy – No mixer required for the topping!
Perfect for Crowds – Makes 24 generous bars
Make-Ahead Friendly – Actually tastes better the next day
Pantry Ingredients – Nothing fancy needed
Freezer Friendly – Perfect for meal prep
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Bake Time: 35-43 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour (plus cooling)
Yield: 24 bars
Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Buttery Shortbread Crust:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Sweet Coconut Topping:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
Step 2: Make the Shortbread Crust
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
- Gradually mix in the flour and salt until a soft dough forms.
- Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from oven but keep the oven on.
Step 3: Prepare the Coconut Topping
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and granulated sugar until well combined.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the flour mixture to the egg mixture and stir until just combined.
- Stir in the vanilla extract, shredded coconut, and nuts (if using).
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
- Pour the coconut mixture evenly over the hot crust.
- Return to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and set.
- Cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars.
Pro Tips for Perfect Bars
Don’t skip the parchment paper – it makes removal so much easier and prevents sticking
Use room temperature eggs – for better mixing and smoother texture
Press the crust firmly – to prevent crumbling when you cut the bars
Cool completely – before cutting for clean, professional-looking edges
Store covered – at room temperature for up to 5 days

Delicious Variations to Try
Chocolate Coconut Bars: Add 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips to the coconut mixture
Lemon Coconut Bars: Add 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice and 1 tablespoon lemon zest to the topping
Toasted Coconut: Toast the coconut in a dry pan for 2-3 minutes before adding for extra flavor
Nutty Coconut Bars: Try different nuts like almonds, macadamias, or hazelnuts
Storage and Serving Tips
Cut into 24 squares for perfect serving portions. These bars are absolutely perfect for potlucks, bake sales, office parties, or any time you need a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s guaranteed to disappear fast!
Storage Options:
- Room temperature: Up to 5 days in an airtight container
- Refrigerator: Up to 1 week (great for hot weather!)
- Freezer: Up to 3 months (wrap individually for easy grab-and-go treats)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead? Absolutely! These bars actually taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Can I use unsweetened coconut? Yes, but add an extra 1/4 cup sugar to the topping mixture.
What if I don’t have parchment paper? You can grease the pan well with butter and dust with flour, but parchment makes removal much easier.
Can I double the recipe? Yes! Use two 9×13 pans or one large sheet pan and adjust baking time accordingly.
Have you tried this recipe? I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment below and let me know if you tried any of the variations.
Pin this recipe for later and share it with your friends who love easy dessert bars!

