| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 25 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 320 | 18g | 11g | 36g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 24g | 2g | 4g | 0.20g |
I’ve always maintained a deep fascination with coastal gastronomy, with my heart rooted in New England seafood. But sometimes, there’s an undeniable allure to straying off the familiar path. Such is the feeling I get each time I bake a batch of mouth-watering Coconut Lemon Bars. They are the perfect amalgamation of sweet and tangy, evocative of the refreshing scents of a tranquil tropical beach. The journey from the seafood-loving coast of Eastern US to the vibrant tropics is surprisingly seamless for this Portland, Maine, native.
The Sensational Flavor Journey of Coconut Lemon Bars
Each bite of the Coconut Lemon Bars is a tryst with two contrasting worlds – the sour tang of lemons and the tropical sweetness of coconut. The creamy, tart lemon layer meets your palate first, followed by the chewy coconut topping, making for a heavenly sweet-sour dance. A similar sensation can be found in some of the other beloved desserts, such as lemon meringue pie, or key lime cheesecake. Baked to perfection, these bars provide an excellent accompaniment to a cup of tea or as a dessert after a meal of fresh New England Clam Chowder.
Nutrition Packed into Every Bar
What’s not to love about a recipe that offers the best of both flavor and nutrition worlds. Lemons bring in a hefty dose of vitamin C, known for boosting the immune system. Plus, its zest provides a bevy of plant compounds that can promote heart health. The coconut, on the other hand, is laden with fibers and MCTs, which help in good digestion and quick energy release. This magic duo works hard to ensure you get a health boost with every delicious piece you consume. A similar idea can be found here.
As a mother to two daughters, Erin and Samantha, I’ve found these Coconut Lemon Bars to be an absolute hit! Perhaps it’s the tender crumb, or the sweet and tangy balance unraveling in each bite. Or maybe, it’s the excitement of surprising them with a tropical indulgence right in our Portland home. Kitchen experiments like these are a vibrant reminder that although our roots may lie in New England’s rocky coast, our culinary adventures have no bounds!
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar for dusting
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
Step Two
In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour and 1/4 cup of granulated sugar. Add 1/2 cup of soft unsalted butter and mix the ingredients together until the dough has formed.
Step Three
Press the dough into a light greased 9-inch baking dish, ensuring to cover the entire surface evenly. Bake the crust for about 20 minutes, or until it becomes golden brown.
Step Four
While the crust is baking, prepare the lemon filling. In another bowl, beat the 2 large eggs, then add in 1 cup of granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, 3 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1 teaspoon of lemon zest. Stir well until all the ingredients are combined.
Step Five
Once the crust is ready, pour the lemon filling over the baked crust, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the 1 cup of shredded coconut all over the top of the filling.
Step Six
Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for about 25 minutes, or until the filling has set and the coconut is slightly toasted.
Step Seven
Take out the Coconut Lemon Bars from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the dish on a wire rack. Once cooled, dust the top with 1/4 cup of powdered sugar.
Step Eight
After dusting, cut the Coconut Lemon Bars into squares before serving. Can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
