Ingredients:
- 16.5 oz refrigerated sugar cookie dough
- 8.5 oz cream cheese softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 3/4 teaspoon coconut extract
- 2 teaspoons lime zest
- 1/3 cup sweetened shredded coconut
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray 9×9 square pan with non stick cooking spray.
- Press sugar cookie dough into bottom of greased dish and set aside.
- In a large bowl, whip cream cheese with sugar and egg. Scrape edges and whip again. Stir in coconut extract and lime zest. Spread mixture over top of cookie dough to form an even layer and top with coconut.
- Bake 20 minutes or until coconut is lightly toasted and cream cheese mixture is set.
- Cool to room temperature, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until completely chilled. Cut into bars and serve.
FAQ:
1. What ingredients are typically used in making coconut bars?
Answer: Coconut bars usually consist of shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, butter, sugar, and sometimes vanilla extract or other flavorings. For the base, ingredients like graham crackers or cookie crumbs may be used. Some variations also include nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits for added texture and flavor.
2. How should coconut bars be stored to maintain freshness?
Answer: Coconut bars should be stored in an airtight container to maintain freshness. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate the bars, where they can last up to a week. If you want to store them even longer, you can freeze the bars for up to 3 months. Be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
3. Can coconut bars be made vegan or gluten-free?
Answer: Yes, coconut bars can be made vegan by substituting the butter with a plant-based alternative and using a vegan sweetened condensed milk. To make them gluten-free, ensure that all ingredients used, especially the base like graham crackers or cookie crumbs, are certified gluten-free. There are many recipes available that cater to these dietary requirements.
4. Are coconut bars suitable for individuals with nut allergies?
Answer: Coconut is not considered a tree nut, but individuals with nut allergies should still exercise caution. Always check the ingredient labels for any cross-contamination warnings. If a recipe includes nuts, they can often be omitted or substituted with safe alternatives. It’s best to consult with an allergist or use ingredients that are certified nut-free.
5. What are some common variations of coconut bars?
Answer: Common variations of coconut bars include adding chocolate chips, drizzling chocolate on top, or incorporating dried fruits like raisins or cranberries. Some recipes also mix in nuts such as almonds or pecans for extra crunch. Another popular variation is to use a different base, like a shortbread crust or brownie layer, to change the texture and flavor profile of the bars.