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Coconut Caramel Shortbread Bars Recipe

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3.8 from 81 reviews

  • Author: Amelia
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 16 bars
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

These Coconut Caramel Shortbread Bars feature a buttery shortbread crust topped with rich caramel and toasted coconut. They combine a crisp, golden base with a sweet, gooey caramel layer and a crunchy toasted coconut topping, making them a decadent and irresistible dessert perfect for holidays, potlucks, or special occasions.

Ingredients

For the Shortbread Crust

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • ¼ tsp salt

For the Topping

  • 1 cup caramel sauce
  • 1½ cups sweetened shredded coconut
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make removal easier.
  2. Prepare the shortbread dough: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, ensuring a tender crust.
  3. Mix dry ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the creamed butter and sugar mixture. Stir until the dough comes together and forms a crumbly texture.
  4. Press the crust: Evenly press the shortbread dough into the bottom of the prepared pan, creating a uniform layer for an even bake.
  5. Bake the crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes or until it turns lightly golden, indicating it is cooked through.
  6. Add the caramel layer: Remove the pan from the oven and immediately spread the caramel sauce evenly over the baked shortbread crust.
  7. Prepare the coconut topping: In a small bowl, mix the sweetened shredded coconut with vanilla extract to infuse flavor before sprinkling it evenly over the caramel layer.
  8. Bake again: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 10 to 12 minutes or until the coconut is toasted golden brown, enhancing its flavor and texture.
  9. Cool and slice: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan to set properly. Once cooled, lift out using the parchment paper and slice into 16 bars for serving.

Notes

  • Drizzle melted chocolate over the bars for extra indulgence and a richer flavor contrast.
  • Allow the bars to cool fully before slicing to achieve clean, neat slices.
  • Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://justsosweet.com/coconut-caramel-shortbread-bars-recipe/