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Coconut Pecan Dream Bars

Coconut Pecan Dream Bars are the kind of old-fashioned dessert that disappears quickly from a dessert table. They combine a buttery, tender crust with a rich coconut-pecan topping that becomes lightly caramelized as it bakes. The contrast between the crisp edges, chewy coconut, and crunchy pecans makes every bite satisfying.

These bars are simple enough for a casual afternoon treat but special enough for holidays, bake sales, potlucks, and family gatherings. Best of all, they can be prepared ahead of time and sliced once completely cooled.

Ingredients

For the crust

1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the coconut pecan topping

3 large eggs
1 cup (200 g) packed light brown sugar
1/2 cup (120 ml) light corn syrup
1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups (150 g) sweetened shredded coconut
1 1/2 cups (165 g) chopped pecans

Equipment

9 × 13-inch baking pan
Parchment paper
Mixing bowls
Electric mixer or sturdy whisk
Rubber spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Wire cooling rack
Sharp knife

Step-by-Step Method

1. Prepare the baking pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Line a 9 × 13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some parchment hanging over the sides. This makes it much easier to lift the finished bars from the pan later.

Lightly grease any exposed sides of the pan.

2. Make the buttery crust

Place the softened butter and granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl. Beat until the mixture becomes smooth, creamy, and slightly fluffy.

Add the vanilla extract and mix briefly.

Gradually add the flour and salt. Mix just until the ingredients come together and a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing, since too much mixing can make the crust tougher than necessary.