No-Bake Coconut Cream Bars

  Introduction:

If you’re a coconut lover, prepare to fall head over heels for these No-Bake Coconut Cream Bars. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a thick, cloud-like coconut cream filling, and a generous sprinkle of toasted coconut on top, these bars are the ultimate no-fuss tropical dessert. They’re cool, creamy, and perfect for summer gatherings, holidays, or just a sweet midweek treat.

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 Ingredients:

For the crust:

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

• 2 tablespoons sugar

For the coconut cream layer:

• 2 cups heavy whipping cream (cold)

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 teaspoon coconut extract (optional but recommended)

• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut

For the topping:

1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut (toasted)

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 Instructions:

1. Make the crust:
   In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until the texture resembles wet sand. Press firmly into the bottom of a parchment-lined 9×9-inch or 8×8-inch pan. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.

2. Prepare the cream layer:
   In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and coconut extract. Beat until well combined.

3. Whip the cream:
   In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until no streaks remain.

4. Fold in coconut:
   Stir in the shredded coconut until evenly distributed.

5. Assemble the bars:
   Spread the coconut cream filling evenly over the chilled crust. Smooth the top with a spatula.

6. Toast the coconut:
   In a dry pan over medium heat, toast 1/2 cup of shredded coconut until golden brown. Stir frequently to avoid burning. Let cool slightly.

7. Top and chill:
   Sprinkle the toasted coconut over the top of the bars. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best texture.

8. Slice and serve:
   Cut into neat squares using a sharp knife. Clean the knife between cuts for cleaner edges.

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 Closing Thoughts:
These No-Bake Coconut Cream Bars are the perfect blend of cool, creamy, and coconutty. They come together without turning on the oven, making them an ideal treat for warm days—or any day you need a taste of paradise. Keep them chilled and serve them cold for maximum deliciousness. One bite and you’ll be hooked!