Lemon Coconut Sticky Butter Bars: A Delightful Treat!
If you’re on the lookout for a dessert that perfectly balances creamy, zesty, and downright delicious, then look no further than Lemon Coconut Sticky Butter Bars! These delightful bars are a wonderful treat that combines tangy lemon juice, rich cream cheese, and a hint of coconut, creating a flavor profile that’s irresistibly refreshing. Did you know that the first recorded recipes for dessert bars date back to the 1930s? Imagine how these little squares have evolved through the decades!
What makes these bars truly special is their sticky, gooey center and the delightfully crumbly topping. They’re the perfect dessert for family gatherings, picnics, or just a sweet treat after dinner. If you’ve enjoyed other desserts like classic brownies or rich cheesecake, you’ll love how these bars bring a fresh twist to your dessert table. So, grab your mixing bowl and let’s dive into this simple, quick recipe that promises to impress your family and friends!
What is Lemon Coconut Sticky Butter Bars?
So, what’s the deal with this catchy name, Lemon Coconut Sticky Butter Bars? I mean, it sounds like something you’d find in a tropical paradise, doesn’t it? Picture this: buttery goodness meets zesty lemon and sweet coconut, all wrapped in a sticky embrace—talk about a flavor party! Why such a long name, you ask? Well, they were so good, they just had to include every delicious detail in the title!
As the saying goes, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and these bars are surely a heart-stealer! They are super easy to whip up, and the name itself captures the essence of what makes these bars so delightful. Trust me; after just one bite, you’ll be raving about them to everyone. So why not give them a try and see for yourself?
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Coconut Sticky Butter Bars
You’ll absolutely love these Lemon Coconut Sticky Butter Bars for three main reasons! First, the highlight is the tangy lemon flavor that dances on your palate, perfectly balanced by the creamy filling. Imagine that delicious, gooey texture bursting with citrus goodness! Secondly, making these bars at home saves you money compared to store-bought options without compromising on taste or quality. Plus, you get the added bonus of making them just how you like! Lastly, the toppings—sweetened coconut, brown sugar, and a crumbly finish—bring extra texture and flavor that elevate this dessert to the next level.
If you’ve tried our famous chocolate chip cookies, you’ll see how these bars provide a different but equally scrumptious experience. Both are delightful, but these bars offer that unique zing that can brighten any day. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to indulge in a baking adventure!
How to Make Lemon Coconut Sticky Butter Bars
Quick Overview
Making Lemon Coconut Sticky Butter Bars is a breeze! You’ll enjoy the simple process that takes just about an hour from start to finish and results in a dessert that’s creamy, sticky, and full of delightful flavors. With easy-to-follow steps and readily available ingredients, you’ll have these bars ready to share in no time!
Key Ingredients for Lemon Coconut Sticky Butter Bars
- 1 package yellow cake mix
- 1 egg
- 1 stick unsalted butter, melted
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 eggs at room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp coconut extract
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup sweetened coconut
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 4 tablespoons melted butter
- 3/4 cup flour
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9 x 13 rectangular pan with baking spray and set aside.
- Prepare the Crust: In a large bowl, mix together the yellow cake mix, 1 egg, and melted butter. Stir until well combined, then pat the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Set aside.
- Make the Filling: In another large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the eggs, one at a time, and mix well. Stir in the vanilla extract, coconut extract, fresh lemon juice, powdered sugar, and melted butter. Mix until fully incorporated.
- Assemble the Layers: Pour the filling over the crust in the pan, spreading it evenly.
- Prepare the Topping: In a bowl, combine the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and sweetened coconut. Stir in the melted butter until crumbly and then add the flour. Mix until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Bake: Sprinkle the crumb topping over the filling. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, keeping an eye on it to avoid overbaking. It should be set in the center but still sticky.
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. Enjoy your delicious Lemon Coconut Sticky Butter Bars!
What to Serve Lemon Coconut Sticky Butter Bars With
Pair your Lemon Coconut Sticky Butter Bars with a refreshing scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert combo! The smooth and creamy texture of the ice cream complements the bars perfectly. Alternatively, serve them with fresh fruit like berries or a dollop of whipped cream for a light, summery touch. You could also enjoy them alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat!
Top Tips for Perfecting Lemon Coconut Sticky Butter Bars
To ensure your Lemon Coconut Sticky Butter Bars turn out perfectly every time, follow these handy tips! First, be careful not to overmix the filling, as it can alter the texture. When baking, keep an eye on the bars; they should be slightly jiggly in the center when you take them out of the oven (they will set as they cool). Additionally, you can use fresh lemon zest to enhance that citrusy flavor! If coconut isn’t your thing, feel free to substitute it with nuts for a different twist.
Storing and Reheating Tips
To store any leftovers, simply place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for about 4-5 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them! Just wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, and they’ll be just as delicious!
With these Lemon Coconut Sticky Butter Bars, you are sure to uplift your dessert game! Their irresistible combination of flavors and textures can turn any gathering into a sweet celebration. Happy baking!
Lemon Coconut Sticky Butter Bars: A Delightful Treat!
Ingredients
- 1 package yellow cake mix
- 1 egg
- 1 stick unsalted butter melted
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- 2 eggs at room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp coconut extract
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup sweetened coconut
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 4 tablespoons melted butter
- 3/4 cup flour
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9 x 13 rectangular pan with baking spray and set aside.
- Prepare the Crust: In a large bowl, mix together the yellow cake mix, 1 egg, and melted butter. Stir until well combined, then pat the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Set aside.
- Make the Filling: In another large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the eggs, one at a time, and mix well. Stir in the vanilla extract, coconut extract, fresh lemon juice, powdered sugar, and melted butter. Mix until fully incorporated.
- Assemble the Layers: Pour the filling over the crust in the pan, spreading it evenly.
- Prepare the Topping: In a bowl, combine the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and sweetened coconut. Stir in the melted butter until crumbly and then add the flour. Mix until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Bake: Sprinkle the crumb topping over the filling. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, keeping an eye on it to avoid overbaking. It should be set in the center but still sticky.
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. Enjoy your delicious Lemon Coconut Sticky Butter Bars!
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