Name: Irresistibly Soft Caramel Coconut Bars for Sweet Cravings
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 27 min
Total time: 87 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (softened); 1 cup Brown Sugar; 0.5 teaspoon Salt; 1.5 cups All-Purpose Flour (spooned and leveled); 0.5 cup Unsalted Butter (cut into pieces); 1 cup Brown Sugar; 0.25 cup Honey; 0.5 cup Heavy Cream; 0.25 teaspoon Salt; 2 cups Sweetened Shredded Coconut (chopped if preferred); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (pure preferred); 1 cup Milk Chocolate Chips; 1 teaspoon Flaky Finishing Salt (optional)

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The aroma of caramel and toasted coconut wafting through my kitchen instantly transports me back to childhood memories of eagerly waiting for Girl Scout cookie season. Today, I’m thrilled to share my take on those beloved treats with these Samoas-Inspired Caramel Coconut Bars. These delightful bars boast three irresistible layers: a buttery shortbread crust, a rich caramel coconut filling, and a smooth chocolate drizzle that simply melts in your mouth. Not only are they a breeze to whip up, making them the perfect make-ahead dessert, but they also serve as a true crowd-pleaser for any gathering. Whether enjoyed at room temperature or slightly chilled, they’re bound to satisfy your sweet cravings. Ready to dive into the world of gooey, caramel-coated bliss? Let’s get baking!

Why Are These Bars So Irresistible?

Decadent Layers: Each bite brings together a buttery shortbread base, rich caramel coconut filling, and smooth chocolate drizzle, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
Quick to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have these fabulous bars ready in no time. No need for complex techniques here!
Make-Ahead Magic: Perfect for meal prepping or last-minute gatherings, these bars can be stored and enjoyed later, helping you dodge those fast food temptations.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Whether for a potluck or cozy family night, they’re sure to impress friends and family. Who can resist caramel and coconut bliss?
Versatile Options: Feel free to tweak the recipe by adding toasted coconut or experimenting with chocolate types. Check out my Blueberry Cheesecake Bars for another delicious dessert idea!

Caramel Coconut Bars Ingredients

Get ready to gather your supplies for these delicious Caramel Coconut Bars!

For the Crust

Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and depth; feel free to use light or dark brown sugar interchangeably.
Salt – Enhances sweetness; adjust based on whether you’re using salted butter.
All-Purpose Flour – Forms the crust structure; make sure to spoon and level for accuracy.

For the Filling

Unsalted Butter – Creates a creamy base for the filling; cut into pieces for even melting.
Brown Sugar – Sweetens the filling while adding caramel depth; light or dark can be substituted as you like.
Honey – Brings sweetness and chewy texture to the mix.
Heavy Cream – Adds richness; substitute with half and half for a lighter option if desired.
Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors; adjust to your taste.
Sweetened Shredded Coconut – Infuses coconut flavor and chewiness; chop for smaller pieces if you prefer.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; always opt for pure vanilla for the best results.

For the Topping

Milk Chocolate Chips – Provides a sweet chocolate layer that complements the filling wonderfully.
Flaky Finishing Salt – Optional, but offers a sophisticated contrast to the sweetness of the bars.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Caramel Coconut Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it for easy removal. In a mixing bowl, blend softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and salt until creamy. Gradually add flour and mix until crumbly. Press this mixture firmly into the base of the prepared pan, then bake for 15 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges.

Step 2: Make the Filling
While the crust bakes, prepare the luscious filling for your Caramel Coconut Bars. In a medium saucepan, combine unsalted butter, brown sugar, honey, heavy cream, and salt over medium heat. Stir continuously until the mixture comes to a gentle simmer, about 2 minutes. Remove it from heat and stir in vanilla extract and sweetened shredded coconut, ensuring everything is well combined for that perfect gooey layer.

Step 3: Assemble the Bars
After the crust has cooled slightly, it’s time to assemble these delightful Caramel Coconut Bars. Pour the coconut caramel filling over the pre-baked crust, smoothing it out evenly with a spatula. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 12 minutes or until the filling is bubbly and set. Once baked, allow the bars to cool on a wire rack for about 30 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Chocolate Topping
For the finishing touch, melt the milk chocolate chips either in a double boiler or carefully in the microwave, stirring until smooth. Once the caramel bars are completely cooled, drizzle the melted chocolate over the top in a zigzag pattern, creating an enticing finish. If desired, sprinkle a pinch of flaky salt on top to enhance the flavors. Let the chocolate set for at least 30 minutes before slicing.

Make Ahead Options

These Samoas-Inspired Caramel Coconut Bars are a fantastic choice for make-ahead dessert lovers! You can prepare the crust up to 24 hours in advance by baking it, letting it cool, then storing it wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature. Additionally, the caramel coconut filling can be made and refrigerated for up to 3 days; just reheat gently before pouring it over the crust. For optimal quality, ensure the bars cool completely before drizzling with chocolate, which can also be prepared ahead. When ready to serve, simply drizzle the chocolate topping and let it set for about 30 minutes. Enjoy the flavors just as delicious and delightful as when freshly made!

Caramel Coconut Bars – Endless Customizations

Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing these bars with different flavors and ingredients!

Toasted Coconut: Swap sweetened shredded coconut with toasted coconut for a nuttier, deeper flavor that pairs beautifully with the caramel.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for a delightful texture and extra richness. This adds a fabulous crunch that complements the gooey layers.
Dark Chocolate Delight: Use dark chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate for a richer, more intense chocolate flavor that balances the sweetness perfectly.
Fruit Fusion: Incorporate a layer of thinly sliced bananas or caramelized apples on top of the crust before adding the coconut filling for a fruity twist!
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a hint of nutmeg to the filling for a warm spice note that enhances the caramel flavor.
Unrefined Sweetener: Replace brown sugar with coconut sugar for a more natural sweetener that lends a unique flavor profile to the bars.
Vegan Option: For a vegan version, use plant-based butter and full-fat coconut milk instead of cream, ensuring everyone can enjoy these treats!
Serving Suggestion: Pair these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or try them alongside my scrumptious Maple Donut Bars for an unforgettable dessert spread!

Expert Tips for Caramel Coconut Bars

Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting to ensure neat slices and avoid a messy presentation.
Perfectly Melt Chocolate: Use a double boiler or microwave on low power to melt chocolate—this prevents seizing, ensuring a smooth drizzle over the bars.
Try Lighter Options: Consider substituting heavy cream with half and half for a lighter filling without sacrificing creaminess in your Caramel Coconut Bars.
Fresh Coconut Flavor: For enhanced taste, use toasted coconut instead of sweetened shredded coconut in the filling; this adds a nutty crunch.
Check Baking Time: Be careful not to overbake the filling—keeping an eye on the timer ensures that your bars stay chewy and delicious in texture.

How to Store and Freeze Caramel Coconut Bars

Fridge: Store your Caramel Coconut Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their gooey texture and preserves the flavors.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing quality.

Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy, simply transfer the bars from the freezer to the fridge for a few hours, or leave them at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.

Reheating: If you prefer warm bars, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, ensuring they stay soft and delicious without becoming too hot.

What to Serve with Samoas-Inspired Caramel Coconut Bars

Delight in creating a full meal experience with these decadent caramel coconut bars as the centerpiece.

Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of fluffy ice cream provides a luscious contrast to the rich and gooey layers of the bars.
Fresh Berries Medley: Juicy strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries add a refreshing burst of flavor that complements the sweetness beautifully.
Milk Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: Enhance the chocolatey vibe by serving these alongside, offering a sweet and romantic touch.

Imagine the harmony of flavors and colors on your dessert table, each element working together to heighten enjoyment.

Coconut Milk Smoothie: A rich, creamy coconut smoothie brings out the tropical essence of the bars while offering a refreshing sip.
Nutty Granola Clusters: The crunch of granola creates a delightful textural contrast, making each bite even more satisfying.
Hot Coffee or Espresso: An aroma-filled cup of coffee enhances the sweetness of the bars and deepens the overall flavor experience.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: For the ultimate dessert platter, include classic chocolate chip cookies, satisfying the cookie cravings everyone has!

Samoas-Inspired Caramel Coconut Bars Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right coconut for the filling?
Absolutely! For the filling, I recommend using fresh sweetened shredded coconut as it delivers the perfect chewiness and flavor. If you prefer a nuttier taste, consider using toasted coconut instead. This adds both depth and crunch to your bars. Just make sure to check for any added sugars or preservatives if you’re looking for a healthier option!

How should I store my caramel coconut bars?
These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them for longer, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag—this way, they can last for up to 3 months. Just ensure they’re securely wrapped to prevent freezer burn!

Can I freeze caramel coconut bars? How do I do it?
Absolutely! To freeze your Caramel Coconut Bars, start by letting them cool completely after baking. Next, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap to keep them fresh. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to indulge, simply move them from the freezer to the fridge for a few hours, or let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before enjoying. Perfect for those sweet cravings later on!

What can I do if my filling is too runny?
Very good question! If you find that your filling is too runny, it may be due to not cooking the caramel long enough or having too much liquid in the mixture. To fix this, try cooking the filling mixture on medium heat for a bit longer, stirring constantly until it thickens and bubbles gently for about 2 minutes. Also, ensure that all your ingredients are measured accurately. If it’s still runny, you can add a touch more shredded coconut, which will help absorb excess moisture and form a firmer layer.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a gluten-free version of these Caramel Coconut Bars, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just be sure to check your labels on all other ingredients, such as the chocolate chips and any additional toppings, to ensure they’re gluten-free as well. Enjoy your sweet treat without worry!

Are there any allergy considerations for pets?
Yes, caution is key! While these bars are absolutely delicious for humans, they contain ingredients like chocolate, sugar, and coconut that can be harmful to pets, particularly dogs and cats. It’s best to keep these bars safely out of reach of your furry friends. If you’re treating them, opt for pet-friendly snacks instead!