Raspberry Bars with Coconut Recipe

 

If you’re ready to dive into a treat that perfectly balances tart and sweet with a delightful tropical twist, you’ve got to try these Raspberry Bars with Coconut. This recipe combines a tender, buttery crust loaded with crunchy walnuts and luscious raspberry preserves, topped with sweet shredded coconut and melty white baking chips for a texture and flavor combo that feels like a warm hug in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a cozy family gathering or simply craving something extraordinary with your afternoon tea, these bars are an irresistibly rich and fruity indulgence that never disappoints.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, well-chosen ingredients make all the difference in crafting Raspberry Bars with Coconut that are both comforting and exciting. Each component brings something unique to the table: buttery richness, nutty crunch, fruity brightness, and that unmistakable sweet coconut flavor that lifts the whole experience.

• Butter, 3/4 cup softened: Provides a tender, flaky base and golden crust for the bars.
• Sugar, 1 cup: Sweetens the dough and balances the raspberry’s natural tartness.
• Egg, 1 large (room temperature): Adds moisture and binds the ingredients perfectly.
• Vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon: Enhances the overall flavor with warm, fragrant notes.
• All-purpose flour, 2 cups: Forms the sturdy yet tender structure of the bars.
• Baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon: Gives a subtle lift to keep the crust light.
• Sweetened shredded coconut, 2 cups (divided): Adds a tropical sweetness and chewy texture that’s signature to this recipe.
• Chopped walnuts, 1/2 cup: Brings a pleasant crunch and depth of flavor.
• Raspberry preserves, 1 jar (12 ounces): Delivers a vibrant, fruity layer that’s bursting with juicy goodness.
• White baking chips, 1 cup: Melts into pockets of creamy sweetness on top.

How to Make Raspberry Bars with Coconut

Step 1: Make the Dough

Start this delicious journey by preheating your oven to 350°F for a perfectly timed bake. Cream together the softened butter and sugar in a large bowl until the mixture turns light and fluffy—this usually takes about five to seven minutes and is crucial for that melt-in-your-mouth texture. Next, beat in the room temperature egg and vanilla extract, infusing the dough with moisture and flavor. In a separate bowl, whisk the all-purpose flour and baking powder, then slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. This gradual mixing keeps the dough tender yet sturdy enough to hold the luscious filling. Finally, fold in the chopped walnuts and 1 ¼ cups of shredded coconut, giving the dough a wonderful blend of crunch and chewiness.

Step 2: Assemble the Bars

Take three-quarters of the dough and press it evenly into a greased 13×9-inch baking pan—this forms the sturdy, buttery base of your Raspberry Bars with Coconut. Spread the raspberry preserves evenly over the crust, ensuring every bite gets a hit of fruity tartness. Now sprinkle the white baking chips and the remaining coconut evenly over the preserves to create pockets of creamy sweetness and delightful texture contrasts. Crumble the leftover dough over the top and gently press it down; this crumbly topping will bake into a gorgeous golden crust that’s both crisp and chewy.

Step 3: Bake the Bars

Place your pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Keep an eye out for that golden brown color on the top, signaling that your Raspberry Bars with Coconut are ready to come out. Once baked, let the pan cool on a wire rack—this cooling step is essential to allow the filling to set so that you get clean, perfect bars when you cut them. Slice into squares and get ready to enjoy the symphony of flavors and textures that make these bars a perennial favorite.

How to Serve Raspberry Bars with Coconut

Garnishes

To add an extra touch of elegance and fun, dust your Raspberry Bars with Coconut lightly with powdered sugar. A few fresh raspberry halves or a small sprig of mint can brighten up the presentation and add a fragrant pop of color that’s as pleasing to the eyes as to the palate.

Side Dishes

These bars shine beautifully alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to complement the tartness with creamy sweetness. Pair them with a warm cup of tea or robust coffee to balance the layers and offer a cozy, satisfying dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party-ready dish, arrange Raspberry Bars with Coconut on a pretty platter lined with parchment paper, then sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top for added crunch and visual appeal. You can also cut the bars into mini bite-sized pieces for easy finger food at gatherings or layer them with whipped cream and fresh berries in clear cups for a delightful dessert parfait twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Raspberry Bars with Coconut in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to maintain their perfectly tender texture. If you want to keep them longer, refrigeration is a good option but be sure to bring them back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and softness.

Freezing

You can freeze these bars by wrapping individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen Raspberry Bars with Coconut last up to two months and make a fantastic ready-to-eat treat when you need a quick sweet fix. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours before enjoying.

Reheating

If you prefer your bars warm, pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes or microwave a single piece for 15 to 20 seconds. This gently melts the white baking chips and revives the buttery crust, making them taste freshly baked all over again.

FAQs

Can I use fresh raspberries instead of raspberry preserves?

Fresh raspberries can be used, but the texture and moisture level will differ. To keep the bars from getting soggy, cooking the fresh raspberries down into a jam-like consistency before spreading might work best.

Is it possible to make these bars gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking, but be mindful that texture can vary slightly depending on the mix used.

Can I omit the walnuts if I have a nut allergy?

Absolutely! You can skip the walnuts or replace them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free crunch, or simply leave them out entirely.

What keeps the coconut from burning on top?

The key is spreading the coconut evenly and mixing it with white baking chips, which helps protect it during baking. Also, watching the bars closely near the end of the baking time prevents over-browning.

How thick should I press the dough in the pan?

Press the dough into an even layer about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick to provide a sturdy base that holds its shape while baking but still remains tender.

Final Thoughts

Making Raspberry Bars with Coconut is like gifting yourself a small moment of joy and nostalgia in every bite. Their perfect harmony of tangy fruit, sweet coconut, buttery crust, and crunchy walnuts has made them a true favorite in my kitchen. I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and discover just how simple ingredients combine to create something incredibly special. Happy baking!

 

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