Ultimate Coconut Cream Pie Bars – Easy Recipe for a Decadent Treat

Name: Ultimate Coconut Cream Pie Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Tropical
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk (full fat); 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut; ¾ cup granulated sugar; ¼ cup cornstarch; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ¼ teaspoon salt; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; ½ cup sweetened shredded coconut (toasted, optional, for garnish)

Posted on August 13, 2025

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Have you ever taken a bite of something so rich and creamy that it instantly transports you to a tropical paradise? That’s exactly what these Ultimate Coconut Cream Pie Bars do! The first time I made these, I was blown away by how simple yet utterly delicious they were. It was one of those afternoons when I just had a craving for something sweet, and with a few pantry staples, these bars came to life. With their buttery crust, luscious coconut filling, and fluffy whipped topping, they are perfect for any gathering or just a cozy night in!

What makes these bars so special? They’re not just your run-of-the-mill dessert; they’re a delightful treat that combines the nostalgia of coconut cream pie with the convenience of a bar. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a staple in your dessert rotation. Whether you’re serving them at a brunch, a potluck, or just savoring them with a cup of coffee at home, these bars will be the star of the show!

So, let’s get started on this mouthwatering journey and learn why you absolutely need to make these Ultimate Coconut Cream Pie Bars!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Once you’ve tasted these bars, you’ll understand why they are a favorite among friends and family. I’ve made them countless times, and they never fail to impress. Here’s why you’ll love this recipe:

Quick & Easy: These bars come together in under an hour, making them perfect for last-minute dessert cravings or unexpected guests.
Simple Ingredients: You probably have most of the ingredients in your pantry right now! No need for a special trip to the store.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer barbecue, holiday gathering, or just a Tuesday night, these bars are always a hit.
Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike go crazy for these creamy, coconut-infused delights!
Unbelievably Delicious: The combination of buttery crust, rich coconut filling, and fluffy topping is pure bliss.

What sets this recipe apart from others? It’s all about the perfect balance of textures and flavors. The buttery graham cracker crust provides a solid foundation for the creamy coconut filling, while the whipped topping adds a lightness that keeps you coming back for more. Honestly, the first bite will have you closing your eyes and savoring the moment—it’s that good!

This recipe is comfort food reimagined, and it manages to be both indulgent and satisfying without feeling overly heavy. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite toppings or mix-ins. Trust me, once you make these bars, you’ll want to keep them in your dessert repertoire!

Ingredients Needed

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to create the ultimate coconut experience. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10 full sheets, crushed)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
For the filling:
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk (full fat for creaminess)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- ½ cup sweetened shredded coconut (toasted, optional, for garnish)

These ingredients are easy to find and often already in your kitchen. The graham cracker crumbs create a perfectly crumbly base, while the coconut milk and heavy cream make the filling rich and velvety. You can even switch the shredded coconut for unsweetened if you prefer a less sweet version!

Equipment Needed

Before we dive into making these bars, let’s gather the necessary kitchen tools:

9×13 inch baking dish
Mixing bowls (medium and large)
Whisk
Rubber spatula or wooden spoon
Electric mixer (for whipping cream)
Measuring cups and spoons
Food processor (optional, for crust)

You don’t need any fancy equipment for this recipe. A good mixing bowl and an electric mixer are all you really need to whip up these bars. If you don’t have a food processor, you can crush the graham crackers in a zip-top bag with a rolling pin!

Preparation Method

Now that we have everything ready, let’s jump into the step-by-step process of making these delicious Ultimate Coconut Cream Pie Bars:

Preheat your oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well combined. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and let it cool.
Make the filling: In a large saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the coconut milk, heavy cream, sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and salt. Cook this mixture, stirring constantly until it begins to thicken (about 5-7 minutes). Keep an eye on it; you don’t want it to boil!
Add shredded coconut: Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in the shredded coconut until evenly distributed.
Combine with crust: Pour the coconut filling over the cooled crust and spread it evenly. Allow it to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours until set.
Prepare the topping: In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Spread this whipped cream over the set coconut filling.
Garnish: Sprinkle the additional shredded coconut on top, and if desired, toast it in a dry skillet until golden for an extra crunch!
Slice and serve: Once everything is assembled, slice the bars into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy the tropical bliss!

As you prepare these bars, you’ll notice the delightful aroma of coconut filling your kitchen. The texture should be smooth and creamy, and the crust should be golden brown. If you find that your filling isn’t thickening, just keep whisking—patience pays off!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some pro tips to ensure your Ultimate Coconut Cream Pie Bars turn out perfectly every time:

Whisk constantly: When cooking the filling, make sure to whisk continuously to prevent lumps and ensure even cooking.
Cool properly: Let the filling cool completely before adding the whipped cream topping. This helps keep everything from melting together.
Don’t skip chilling: Chilling the bars for at least 2 hours is crucial for them to set correctly. Trust me; it’s worth the wait!
Toasting the coconut: If you choose to toast the coconut for garnish, be sure to watch it closely. It can go from golden to burnt in seconds!

Every dessert comes with its challenges, but these tips will help you avoid common pitfalls. Remember, cooking is all about practicing and learning from mistakes!

Variations & Adaptations

While this recipe is fantastic as is, here are a few fun variations and adaptations to try:

Chocolate Coconut Bars: Add a layer of dark chocolate ganache on top of the filling before adding the whipped cream for a decadent twist.
Fruit Topping: Top the whipped cream with fresh fruit like pineapple or mango for a tropical flair.
Low-Carb Option: Use almond flour in place of graham cracker crumbs for a gluten-free crust, and substitute erythritol for sugar.

Feel free to get creative! You can also adjust the sweetness to your preference or even add a splash of rum extract for a fun adult twist.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These bars are best served chilled, and their presentation can be quite stunning. Consider serving them on a beautiful platter with a sprinkle of toasted coconut for that extra flair. They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or a refreshing iced tea!

For storage, keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months—just make sure to wrap them tightly! When reheating, allow them to thaw in the fridge overnight for the best texture.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

These Ultimate Coconut Cream Pie Bars provide a delightful balance of flavor and nutrition. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Calories: Approximately 250 per bar
Fat: 18g (mostly from coconut and cream)
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 2g

Coconut is known for its healthy fats and fiber content, making these bars a slightly healthier treat compared to traditional desserts. Just keep an eye on portion sizes, as it’s easy to indulge in these creamy delights!

Conclusion

These Ultimate Coconut Cream Pie Bars are a must-try for anyone who loves rich, creamy desserts. They’re easy to make, deliciously satisfying, and perfect for any occasion. I love how versatile they are and how you can customize them based on your taste preferences.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and start making these bars today! Don’t forget to share your creations and any variations you try—I’d love to hear how they turn out for you. Happy baking!

FAQs

1. Can I use unsweetened coconut instead of sweetened?

Yes, you can! Just be aware that it will be less sweet, so you may want to adjust the sugar in the filling slightly.

2. Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

4. Can I substitute the heavy cream?

For a lighter version, you can use whipped topping or coconut whipped cream, but the texture will differ slightly.

5. What should I serve with these bars?

They pair wonderfully with coffee, tea, or even fresh fruit for a refreshing contrast!

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