Crustless Lemon Coconut Bars
Crustless Lemon Coconut Bars are a delightful treat that combines the bright flavor of fresh lemons with the chewy texture of coconut. These bars are easy to make, light, and perfect for any occasion. They can be enjoyed as a snack, dessert, or even as part of a brunch spread. With a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a delicious dessert that everyone will love.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Crustless Lemon Coconut Bars is a great choice for several reasons. First, they require minimal ingredients, which you might already have in your kitchen. Second, they are easy to prepare, making them ideal for both beginners and experienced bakers. Lastly, these bars are refreshingly tangy and sweet, making them a perfect summertime dessert or a treat anytime you crave something bright and flavorful.
How to Make Crustless Lemon Coconut Bars
Ingredients:
- 3 large eggs
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease or line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until they become pale and slightly thickened.
- Add the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and melted butter to the mixture. Stir until everything is well combined.
- Gradually stir in the flour, salt, and shredded coconut until a smooth batter forms.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is set.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing them into squares.
- If desired, dust with powdered sugar before serving.
How to Serve Crustless Lemon Coconut Bars
Crustless Lemon Coconut Bars can be served right out of the pan or chilled for an extra refreshing treat. They are perfect on their own or served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You can also enjoy them with a cup of tea or coffee for a lovely afternoon snack.
How to Store Crustless Lemon Coconut Bars
To store your Crustless Lemon Coconut Bars, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them fresh for a longer time, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.
Tips to Make Crustless Lemon Coconut Bars
- Use fresh lemons for the best flavor. The zest and juice from fresh lemons will make a big difference.
- Make sure to whisk the eggs and sugar thoroughly to create a nice light texture in the bars.
- Let the bars cool completely before cutting for cleaner edges and easier handling.
- Experiment with adding a pinch of coconut extract for more coconut flavor if you love it!
Variation
You can easily customize these bars! Try adding a handful of blueberries or raspberries to the batter for a fruity twist. For a chocolate lover’s version, fold in some chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate over the top once the bars have cooled.
FAQs
1. Can I use sweetened shredded coconut instead of unsweetened?
Yes, but keep in mind that it will make the bars sweeter. You may want to reduce the amount of sugar slightly.
2. Can I replace eggs with a vegan alternative?
You can use flax eggs or chia seeds mixed with water as a substitute, but it may alter the texture slightly.
3. How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The edges should be golden, and the center should be set. You can also insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they are done.
