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Caramel Coconut Bars

Deliciously layered treats with a buttery crust, gooey caramel filling, and a sprinkle of sweetened coconut, perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 16 squares
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the crust
  • 1.5 cups all-purpose flour For best results, consider King Arthur brand
  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature Opt for high-quality unsalted butter for best flavor
  • 0.25 cup granulated sugar
  • 0.25 tsp salt
  • 0.5 tsp vanilla extract
For the caramel filling
  • 1.5 cups sweetened condensed milk
  • 0.5 cup packed light brown sugar Dark brown sugar can be used for a deeper flavor
  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter
  • 0.25 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
Topping
  • 2 cups sweetened shredded coconut Look for the unsweetened kind if you want to control the sweetness

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for even baking.
  2. Grease a 9x9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
  3. Make the crust by mixing flour, softened butter, sugar, salt, and vanilla until crumbly and press it into the pan.
  4. Bake crust for 10 minutes until lightly golden.
Caramel Filling
  1. Over medium heat, combine condensed milk, brown sugar, butter, and salt, stirring constantly until it simmers.
  2. Reduce heat, continue stirring for 5-7 minutes until thickened, then remove from heat and stir in vanilla.
Assembly
  1. Pour caramel over the baked crust, spreading evenly.
  2. Press shredded coconut on top gently.
Baking
  1. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until coconut is golden brown and caramel is bubbling.
  2. Cool in the pan before transferring to a wire rack; let cool completely.

Notes

Stir the caramel consistently to avoid burning. Ensure bars cool completely before cutting for the best texture.