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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!

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!