Description

A simple, 5-ingredient dessert featuring a buttery shortbread crust, a gooey sweetened condensed milk filling, and a crunchy, toasted coconut topping. These bars are easy to make, pantry-friendly, and perfect for potlucks or quick cravings.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
1 can (14oz / 397g) sweetened condensed milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups (100g) sweetened shredded coconut

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal.
In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, granulated sugar, and flour. Mix with a fork or hands until the mixture resembles coarse sand.
Press the crust mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan, aiming for about 1/4 inch thickness.
Pre-bake the crust for 10 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from oven.
While the crust bakes, toast the shredded coconut in a dry skillet or on a baking sheet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly browned. Watch closely to prevent burning.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract until smooth.
Sprinkle the toasted coconut evenly over the hot pre-baked crust.
Pour the condensed milk mixture over the coconut and gently spread to the edges with a spatula.
Return to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
Cool the bars in the pan for at least 30 minutes before lifting them out and cutting into squares.

Notes

Ensure butter is softened, not melted, for a tender crust. Do not skip pre-baking the crust to prevent sogginess. Toasting the coconut is essential for flavor and texture. Cool completely before cutting to ensure clean slices. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 280
Sugar: 32
Sodium: 80
Fat: 12
Saturated Fat: 9
Carbohydrates: 42
Fiber: 2
Protein: 4

Keywords: toasted coconut bars, easy dessert, 5 ingredient dessert, coconut bars, sweetened condensed milk dessert, no mixer dessert, potluck dessert