Description
At its core, this delightful dessert is a layered holiday bar cookie that marries two incredible textures into one effortless treat. The foundation consists of a classical rich shortbread crust that bakes up buttery, tender, and subtly sweet. Resting on top of this golden foundation is a thick, chewy layer of sweetened shredded coconut bound together by a light custard mixture that sets beautifully in the oven.
Ingredients
For the shortbread base
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½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, softened
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¼ cup granulated sugar
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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¼ teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon vanilla extract
For the coconut topping
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2 large eggs
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¾ cup granulated sugar
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
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2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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¼ teaspoon baking powder
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¼ teaspoon salt
For the snowy finish
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½ cup powdered sugar, for dusting
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¼ cup additional shredded coconut, optional
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven. Heat to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang for easy removal.
2. Prepare the shortbread base. In a bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until smooth. Mix in the vanilla extract, flour, and salt until a soft dough forms.
3. Press into the pan. Firmly press the dough into an even layer in the prepared pan. Bake for 12–15 minutes, until the edges are just beginning to turn golden.
4. Make the coconut topping. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, and vanilla. Stir in the shredded coconut, flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
5. Add the topping. Spread the coconut mixture evenly over the warm shortbread crust.
6. Bake the bars. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, until the coconut topping is lightly golden and set in the center.
7. Cool completely. Place the pan on a wire rack and allow the bars to cool fully before lifting them out.
8. Add the snowy finish. Dust generously with powdered sugar. Sprinkle with additional shredded coconut if desired.
9. Cut and serve. Slice into 16 squares or bars using a sharp knife. Wipe the knife between cuts for neat edges.
Notes
Enjoy! These Coconut Snowball Bars make a lovely addition to any holiday dessert platter, with a buttery base and a sweet, snowy coconut top.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 210 kcal
Keywords: coconut snowball squares, snowball coconut bar cookies, festive coconut shortbread bars