Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Minimal Ingredients: Only 3 ingredients needed!
- Fast Prep: Takes less than 5 minutes to prepare.
- Texture Perfection: Thick, soft, and chewy every time.
- Versatile: Easy to customize with toppings or mix-ins.
- Make Ahead: Great for storing and freezing for later.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 3 cups unsweetened shredded coconut
- 2/3 cup coconut condensed milk
- 1/2 cup confectioners sugar
Directions
- Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine shredded coconut, coconut condensed milk, and confectioners sugar. Mix until a thick dough forms.
- Transfer mixture to the lined pan. Using lightly wet hands, press down firmly and smooth the top.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until firm.
- Once set, slice into bars with a sharp knife.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 20 bars
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes (plus chilling)
Variations
- Sugar-Free: Use sugar-free condensed milk and powdered sugar substitute.
- Toppings: Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes or drizzle honey on top.
- Graham Cracker Crust: Add a crust layer made from graham cracker crumbs, coconut oil, and brown sugar for extra texture.
- Mix-Ins: Add crushed walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips to the batter for crunch and flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Freeze individually wrapped bars in parchment paper inside a ziplock bag for up to 6 months.
- No reheating needed; serve chilled or at room temperature.
FAQs
Can I use sweetened coconut?
Unsweetened shredded coconut is best to control sweetness.
What can I substitute for coconut condensed milk?
Regular condensed milk can be used but will change flavor.
How do I prevent bars from sticking?
Line the pan well with parchment and use wet hands to press dough.
Can I make bars smaller or larger?
Yes, slice into your preferred size.
Are these bars gluten-free?
Yes, naturally gluten-free with these ingredients.
Can I add chocolate?
Yes, mix chocolate chips into the batter or drizzle melted chocolate on top.
How chewy are these bars?
They have a soft, chewy texture that holds well.
Can I bake these bars?
No baking required; chilling is enough to set them.
How do I store bars for longer?
Freeze individually wrapped for up to six months.
Can I use shredded coconut flakes?
Regular shredded coconut works best for texture.
Conclusion
These Coconut Bars are a quick, easy, and irresistibly chewy treat perfect for coconut lovers. With just three ingredients and simple prep, they make a convenient dessert or snack anytime, with plenty of options to customize to your liking.
Coconut Bars
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes plus chilling
- Yield: 20 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Coconut Bars are thick, soft, and chewy treats made with just three simple ingredients, perfect for a quick sweet snack or dessert.
Ingredients
3 cups unsweetened shredded coconut
2/3 cup coconut condensed milk
1/2 cup confectioners sugar
Instructions
- Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine shredded coconut, coconut condensed milk, and confectioners sugar. Mix until a thick dough forms.
- Transfer mixture to the lined pan. Using lightly wet hands, press down firmly and smooth the top.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until firm.
- Once set, slice into bars with a sharp knife.
Notes
Use sugar-free condensed milk and powdered sugar substitute for a sugar-free version.
Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes or drizzle honey on top for added flavor.
Add a graham cracker crust made from crumbs, coconut oil, and brown sugar for texture.
Mix in crushed walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips for crunch and flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
