Go Back
Creating the perfect crust is essential for your Zesty Frozen Lemon Coconut Cream Bars. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once your crust mixture is evenly pressed into the bottom of your baking dish, it’s time to bake. Bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges begin to turn a light golden brown. This is a crucial step; underbaking can lead to a soggy crust, while overbaking might cause it to become too hard.

Frozen Lemon Coconut Cream Bars

Beat the summer heat with Zesty Frozen Lemon Coconut Cream Bars! This refreshing dessert combines the bright tartness of fresh lemons with the tropical sweetness of coconut. Perfect for any gathering, these bars are not only visually stunning but also easy to make. Learn about the essential ingredients that contribute to their delicious flavor and discover step-by-step instructions to create this delightful treat. Enjoy a burst of flavor and impress your friends and family!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

For the crust:

1 cup graham cracker crumbs

1/2 cup shredded sweetened coconut

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

2 tablespoons granulated sugar

1/4 teaspoon salt

For the filling:

1 cup chilled coconut cream

1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)

Zest from 2 lemons

1/4 cup honey or maple syrup

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk (optional for a creamier texture)

For the topping:

1/4 cup shredded unsweetened coconut, lightly toasted

Lemon slices and fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Crust:

    - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

      - In a medium mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, melted butter, sugar, and salt. Stir until the mixture is uniform and all dry ingredients are well coated with butter.

        - Firmly press the crumb mixture into the bottom of a 9x9-inch (or 8x8-inch) baking dish to create an even layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden brown. Once baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan.

          Make the Filling:

            - In a large mixing bowl, add the chilled coconut cream, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. If you want a richer filling, stir in the sweetened condensed milk as well.

              - Use a whisk to blend all the ingredients together until smooth, ensuring there are no lumps.

                Assemble the Bars:

                  - Once the crust has cooled, pour the lemon coconut filling over it, spreading the mixture evenly with a spatula for a smooth surface.

                    - Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the freezer. Freeze for at least 4 hours, or until the filling is set and firm to the touch.

                      Serve:

                        - To serve, carefully lift the bars from the dish using parchment paper edges if available or run a butter knife around the edges to loosen.

                          - Slice the frozen mixture into bars of your preferred size.

                            - Before serving, sprinkle the top with toasted coconut and garnish with lemon slices and fresh mint leaves for an extra pop of color and flavor.

                              Store:

                                - For any leftover bars, store them in an airtight container in the freezer. These delightful treats can be enjoyed straight from the freezer!

                                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 4 hours (plus cooling) | 12 bars