Introduction
Welcome to a slice of paradise! If you’re dreaming of a sweet treat that transports you to a tropical oasis, look no further than these Coconut Cream Dream Bars. With a golden, buttery crust and a luscious, creamy filling, each bite is a delightful explosion of coconut flavor. Perfect for gatherings, picnics, or simply indulging yourself at home, these bars are as simple to make as they are irresistible. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will have your taste buds dancing!
Ingredients
To create these delectable Coconut Cream Dream Bars, you will need the following 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 prepare for the deliciousness ahead.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, unsweetened shredded coconut, powdered sugar, and warm melted butter. Mix everything together until it forms a well-blended dough.
- Press the dough firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to create a solid crust.
- Bake the crust for 15 minutes, or until it turns a lovely light golden brown. Remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly.
- In another mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, sour cream, and vanilla extract until you achieve a smooth consistency.
- Gently fold in the remaining unsweetened shredded coconut, taking care not to overmix.
- Pour this luscious filling over your baked crust, spreading it evenly for a delightful layer of creaminess.
- Bake the assembled dessert for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and looks invitingly golden on top.
- Once baked, let the bars cool at room temperature before refrigerating them for at least 2 hours to allow them to firm up perfectly.
- When ready to serve, cut into squares and top with a dollop of whipped cream if desired. Enjoy your Coconut Cream Dream Bars!
Notes or Tips
For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of toasted coconut on top of the whipped cream. If you want to get a bit fancy, feel free to drizzle some chocolate sauce over the squares for a delightful contrast. These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, making them a great make-ahead dessert!
Cooking Techniques
When baking the crust, be attentive to the color; it should be lightly golden for the best texture. For the filling, whisk the ingredients until smooth to avoid any lumps, which can disrupt the creamy consistency you’re aiming for. Gently folding in the coconut ensures that every bite is packed with delightful bites of coconut.
FAQ
- Can I use sweetened shredded coconut instead of unsweetened? Yes, this will enhance the sweetness of the bars, but you may want to reduce the amount of powdered sugar in the crust.
- Can these bars be frozen? Absolutely! Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to three months.
- What can I substitute for sour cream? Greek yogurt is a great alternative that will yield a similar texture and tangy flavor.
Conclusion
These Coconut Cream Dream Bars are a delightful treat that brings together the comforting flavors of coconut in a creamy, dreamy dessert. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or savoring them by yourself, they are sure to impress. So whip up a batch, and watch as your friends and family swoon over this tropical dream come true!