Toasted Coconut Lemon Bars combine the tangy brightness of classic lemon bars with the tropical sweetness of toasted coconut, resulting in a delightful twist on a beloved dessert favorite. This indulgent treat features a buttery crust as the foundation, topped with a luscious layer of lemon filling infused with zesty lemon juice and fragrant lemon zest. The addition of toasted coconut adds a layer of nutty flavor and irresistible crunch, elevating the bars to new heights of deliciousness. Finished with a dusting of powdered sugar, these bars are as visually appealing as they are delectable. Whether served as a refreshing dessert at summer gatherings or enjoyed as a special treat any time of year, Toasted Coconut Lemon Bars are sure to captivate your taste buds and leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- Pinch of salt
For the Filling:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)
- Zest of 2 lemons
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut, toasted
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or line it with parchment paper.
2. Toast the Coconut:
- Spread the shredded coconut evenly on a baking sheet.
- Toast in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the coconut turns golden brown. Watch it closely to prevent burning. Once toasted, remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
3. Prepare the Crust:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, powdered sugar, flour, and a pinch of salt. Mix until well combined and crumbly.
- Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.
4. Make the Filling:
- In another mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and granulated sugar until smooth.
- Add the flour, lemon juice, and lemon zest to the egg mixture and whisk until well combined and smooth.
- Stir in the toasted shredded coconut until evenly distributed.
5. Bake the Bars:
- Pour the lemon-coconut filling over the baked crust, spreading it out evenly.
- Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges are lightly golden brown.
6. Cool and Serve:
- Remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.
- Once cooled, dust the top of the bars with powdered sugar.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the bars into squares or rectangles.
- Serve and enjoy these delicious Toasted Coconut Lemon Bars as a delightful dessert or snack!
These bars offer a perfect balance of tangy lemon flavor with the sweetness of toasted coconut, making them a refreshing treat for any occasion.
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