Coconut Cream Dream Bars (Printable)
Layered bars with a crunchy crust, creamy coconut center, and fluffy whipped topping.
# What You’ll Need:
→ Crust
01 - 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
02 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
03 - 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
→ Coconut Cream Filling
04 - 1 cup whole milk
05 - 1 cup full-fat canned coconut milk
06 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
07 - 1/4 cup cornstarch
08 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
09 - 4 large egg yolks
10 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
11 - 1 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
→ Topping
12 - 1 1/4 cups heavy whipping cream, chilled
13 - 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
14 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
15 - 1/3 cup toasted coconut flakes
# How-to Steps:
01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing overhang for easy removal.
02 - Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a medium bowl. Press mixture evenly into pan bottom. Bake for 10 minutes, then cool slightly.
03 - Whisk together milk, coconut milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until slightly thickened, about 3 minutes.
04 - Whisk egg yolks in a separate bowl. Gradually ladle hot milk mixture into yolks while whisking continuously. Return mixture to saucepan.
05 - Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until thick and bubbling, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla and shredded coconut.
06 - Pour filling over cooled crust. Smooth top surface. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until completely set.
07 - Beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Spread evenly over chilled coconut layer.
08 - Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes over top. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before slicing into 16 bars.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The texture contrast between crisp crust and silky filling is absolutely addictive
- They taste fancy but come together with pantry staples
02 -
- Rushing the tempering step is how you end up with bits of cooked egg in your silky filling
- Chilling time is not optional, these need at least two hours to set properly
03 -
- Toasting the coconut flakes in a dry pan until golden brings out a nutty flavor you cannot get any other way
- A splash of coconut extract in the filling makes the coconut flavor sing without being artificial