Creamy Coconut Dream Bars

Embark on a delightful culinary journey with these incredibly creamy and intensely flavorful Coconut Cheesecake Bars. A true testament to the tropical allure of coconut, this recipe offers a refreshing twist on the classic cheesecake, promising an unforgettable dessert experience for every coconut enthusiast. Crafted with a coconut-infused crust, a rich coconut cream filling, and a generous topping of toasted coconut, each bite delivers an explosion of pure, unadulterated coconut bliss.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, hosting a casual gathering, or simply craving a taste of paradise, these coconut cheesecake bars are the perfect choice. They transform the traditional cheesecake into a convenient, handheld treat, making them ideal for sharing and serving. The layers of coconut flavor are meticulously woven throughout, from the crunchy, coconut-infused graham cracker crust to the silky-smooth filling enriched with full-fat coconut cream, all crowned with a beautifully toasted coconut sprinkle that adds both texture and a deeper aroma.

For those eager to explore more simple yet sophisticated dessert options, be sure to try our Mini Key Lime Cheesecakes for a zesty delight, or whip up a batch of our Quick No-Bake Chocolate Cake for an effortlessly decadent treat.

Why You’ll Adore These Coconut Cheesecake Bars

These Coconut Cheesecake Bars aren’t just another dessert; they’re a revelation. Here’s why they’re destined to become a staple in your recipe collection:

• Effortless Preparation: Don’t let the elegant appearance fool you. This recipe is surprisingly straightforward. The process involves three main stages: preparing the simple crust, whipping up the velvety filling, and then combining them for baking. Even novice bakers will find this recipe approachable and rewarding.
• Incredible Versatility: Adapt this recipe to suit any occasion or preference. While designed as convenient bars, you can easily transform this into a traditional round coconut cheesecake. The key lies in how you slice and serve! This flexibility makes it perfect for everything from elegant dessert tables to casual potlucks.
• The Ultimate Make-Ahead Dessert: Planning ahead is a breeze with these cheesecake bars. Requiring ample chilling time in the refrigerator, they are perfectly suited for preparation a day or two in advance. This characteristic not only saves you precious time on the day of your event but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in an even more delicious and stable dessert. They store exceptionally well, maintaining their creamy texture and rich flavor.
• Bursting with Coconut Flavor: Unlike some “coconut” desserts that only offer a hint, these bars deliver an undeniable, rich coconut experience in every component. The crust, the filling, and the topping all contribute to a multi-dimensional coconut profile that truly satisfies.

Essential Ingredients for Crafting Your Coconut Cheesecake

Creating these heavenly Coconut Cheesecake Bars begins with selecting the right ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that perfect balance of flavor and texture:

For the Irresistible Coconut Graham Cracker Crust

• Graham Crackers: Finely crushed, these form the foundational layer of your cheesecake. You can achieve fine crumbs effortlessly using a food processor or by hand, placing crackers in a sealed bag and crushing with a rolling pin. The finer the crumbs, the more cohesive and sturdy your crust will be.
• Salt: A pinch of salt is crucial. It acts as a flavor enhancer, balancing the sweetness of the crackers and sugar, and adding depth to the overall taste of the crust.
• Granulated Sugar: Provides additional sweetness and helps in caramelization during baking, contributing to the crust’s golden hue.
• Unsalted Butter: Melted butter binds the graham cracker crumbs together, creating a firm and flavorful base. Ensure it’s unsalted to control the overall saltiness of your dessert. It doesn’t need to be piping hot; just melted.
• Toasted Coconut: This is where the magic begins for the crust! Incorporating toasted coconut into the crust infuses it with an aromatic, nutty flavor that complements the filling perfectly. Toasting brings out a richer, more complex taste from the coconut flakes.

For the Velvety Coconut Cheesecake Filling

• Cream Cheese: The heart of any cheesecake. It’s imperative that your cream cheese is at room temperature. This ensures it creams smoothly with the sugar, preventing lumps and resulting in a uniformly silky filling. Use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture and flavor.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the rich cream cheese base and contributes to the smooth texture of the filling.
• Coconut Cream: This is a non-negotiable ingredient for achieving intense coconut flavor. Make sure to use full-fat coconut cream, not light coconut cream or regular coconut milk. Coconut cream is thicker and richer, providing the desired body and robust coconut essence to your cheesecake.
• Eggs: Crucial for binding the filling and providing structure. Like the cream cheese, eggs should be at room temperature to prevent curdling and ensure even incorporation into the batter. Adding them one at a time helps maintain a smooth consistency.
• Heavy Cream: Adds an extra layer of richness and contributes to the luxurious, creamy texture of the cheesecake. Ensure it’s also at room temperature for optimal blending.
• Toasted Coconut: Folded into the filling, toasted coconut amplifies the tropical flavor and adds a delightful textural contrast. This truly elevates the coconut experience from a subtle note to a central theme.

Crafting Your Divine Coconut Cheesecake Bars: A Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these detailed steps to create a show-stopping dessert that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat:

For the Coconut Graham Cracker Crust:

1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Pan: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9 inch baking pan with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Make sure to leave an overhang on all sides; this thoughtful step will create “handles” that allow for effortless removal of the cooled cheesecake from the pan later. A properly lined pan ensures a clean lift and perfect bars.
2. Assemble the Crust Mixture: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the finely crushed graham cracker crumbs, a pinch of salt, granulated sugar, melted unsalted butter, and the aromatic toasted coconut. Mix these ingredients thoroughly until they are fully combined. The mixture should resemble wet sand, indicating the butter has evenly coated the crumbs.
3. Form and Bake the Crust: Firmly and evenly press the crumb mixture into the bottom of the prepared 9×9 inch pan. Use the back of a spoon or your fingers to compact it well. Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and fragrant. This pre-baking step ensures a crispy, set crust that won’t become soggy. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the crust to cool completely on a wire rack while you prepare the filling.

For the Creamy Coconut Cheesecake Filling:

1. Adjust Oven Temperature: Reduce the oven temperature to 315°F (157°C). A lower, gentler heat is crucial for baking cheesecakes to prevent cracking.
2. Cream the Base: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, or using a large bowl with a hand mixer, beat the room temperature cream cheese and granulated sugar together on low speed. Mix until the mixture is completely smooth, lump-free, and well combined. Avoid over-mixing at this stage, as incorporating too much air can lead to cracks.
3. Incorporate Coconut Cream: Gently add the full-fat coconut cream to the cream cheese mixture. Continue mixing on low speed until it is fully incorporated and the batter is homogeneous.
4. Add Eggs Gradually: Introduce the room temperature eggs one at a time. After each egg addition, mix just until combined, making sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula to ensure all ingredients are evenly mixed. This gradual addition helps maintain the creamy texture and prevents over-mixing.
5. Fold in Heavy Cream and Toasted Coconut: Finally, add the room temperature heavy cream and mix until just combined. Gently fold in the toasted coconut using a spatula, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the filling without deflating the batter.

Baking and Chilling the Cheesecake Bars:

1. Bake the Cheesecake: Carefully pour the prepared cheesecake filling over the cooled, baked crust in the pan. Gently spread it evenly. Transfer the pan to the preheated 315°F (157°C) oven and bake for 30-40 minutes. The cheesecake is ready when the edges are set, but the center still has a slight jiggle. This slight jiggle indicates it’s cooked but not overbaked, which helps prevent a dry texture.
2. Cooling Process (Crucial for No Cracks!): Once the baking time is complete, turn off the oven, but leave the cheesecake inside with the oven door closed for an additional 30 minutes. This gradual cooling prevents sudden temperature changes that can lead to cracks. After 30 minutes, crack the oven door open slightly and allow the cheesecake to cool completely to room temperature inside the oven.
3. Chill Thoroughly Before Serving: Once at room temperature, transfer the cheesecake (still in its pan) to the refrigerator. Chill for at least 3-4 hours, or ideally overnight. This extended chilling time is essential for the cheesecake to firm up, making it easier to cut and ensuring the perfect creamy consistency.
4. Slice and Serve: Once fully chilled and firm, use the foil or parchment paper overhangs to gently lift the cheesecake out of the pan. Place it on a cutting board and, using a hot knife (see tip below), cut the cheesecake into 16 equal-sized bars. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Expert Tips to Achieve a Flawlessly Smooth Cheesecake (No Cracks!)

A perfectly smooth, uncracked cheesecake is a hallmark of a skilled baker. While the process may seem intimidating, these simple tips will help you achieve a pristine surface every time:

• Avoid Over-Mixing the Filling: This is perhaps the most critical rule. When you beat the cream cheese and sugar, and especially when adding eggs, mix on low speed just until combined. Over-mixing incorporates too much air into the batter, which expands during baking and then collapses as the cheesecake cools, leading to unsightly cracks. A slow, steady mix is key.
• Tap Out Air Bubbles: After pouring the filling into the crust, gently tap the pan on your countertop a few times. This technique, similar to preparing macarons, helps to release any trapped air bubbles from the batter. Eliminating these bubbles before baking reduces the chances of them surfacing and forming cracks.
• Resist the Urge to Open the Oven Door: It can be tempting to peek at your cheesecake, but maintain oven sanctity! Opening the oven door, especially during the crucial initial baking and cooling phases, allows cool air to rush in. This sudden drop in temperature causes the cheesecake to contract rapidly, almost certainly resulting in cracks. Trust your oven and the recommended baking times, and only open the door when the recipe instructs you to. The gradual cooling process is just as important as the baking itself.
• Ensure Room Temperature Ingredients: As mentioned in the ingredients section, having cream cheese, eggs, and heavy cream at room temperature ensures they blend seamlessly and create a smooth, homogenous batter, reducing the need for aggressive mixing.

Storing Your Delicious Leftover Coconut Cheesecake Bars

While having leftover cheesecake bars might be a rare occurrence, proper storage is essential to maintain their freshness and exquisite flavor:

Place any remaining cheesecake bars in an airtight container. This protects them from absorbing odors from the refrigerator and prevents them from drying out. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days. For the best taste and texture, allow them to come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving, or enjoy them chilled straight from the fridge for a firmer bite.

Can You Freeze Coconut Cheesecake Bars? Yes, Absolutely!

Cheesecake is an excellent candidate for freezing, making these bars perfect for meal prep or enjoying a small treat whenever a craving strikes:

When freezing individual cheesecake bars, first wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap. This prevents freezer burn and maintains moisture. Then, place the wrapped bars in an airtight freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen cheesecake bars will retain their quality for up to one month. To thaw, simply transfer a bar from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight, or for a few hours at room temperature.

If you wish to freeze an entire coconut cheesecake (before cutting), wrap the cooled cheesecake tightly in several layers of plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Store it in an airtight freezer-safe container. A whole cheesecake can be frozen for up to two months. Thaw it completely in the refrigerator before slicing and serving.

Mastering the Art of Clean Cheesecake Slices

Achieving perfectly neat, clean-cut cheesecake bars is simple with this professional trick:

Before each cut, clean your knife blade thoroughly. Then, run the clean knife under hot water for a few seconds. Wipe the warm blade dry and make your cut. The warmth helps the knife glide smoothly through the creamy cheesecake, preventing sticking and smearing, resulting in beautifully defined slices every time. Repeat this process for each subsequent cut.

Exciting Coconut Cheesecake Recipe Variations

While these coconut cheesecake bars are perfect as is, they also serve as a fantastic canvas for creative additions and flavor variations:

• Whipped Cream Dollops: For an extra touch of elegance and creaminess, adorn each bar with a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream just before serving. A sprinkle of extra toasted coconut on top of the cream adds visual appeal and texture.
• Chocolate or Caramel Drizzle: The rich, tropical notes of coconut pair exceptionally well with the decadent flavors of chocolate and caramel. Drizzle a homemade or store-bought chocolate sauce or caramel sauce over the chilled bars for an indulgent twist. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt can further enhance a caramel drizzle.
• Tropical Fruit Topping: Embrace the full tropical experience by topping your cheesecake bars with a medley of fresh, vibrant fruits. Sliced mango, pineapple chunks, passion fruit pulp, or kiwi slices all complement coconut beautifully, adding a burst of freshness and color.
• Lime or Lemon Zest: For a brighter flavor profile, finely grate some fresh lime or lemon zest over the finished bars. The citrus notes will cut through the richness and add a refreshing zing.
• Different Crusts: Experiment with other crust options beyond graham crackers. Vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies could offer a different texture and flavor dimension, while a gluten-free cookie crust could cater to dietary needs.

Discover More Delightful Dessert Recipes

If you’ve enjoyed the tropical indulgence of these Coconut Cheesecake Bars, you’ll surely love exploring these other exquisite dessert recipes from our collection:

• Strawberry French Tart: A sophisticated and visually stunning tart bursting with fresh strawberry flavor.
• Lebanese Rice Pudding: A comforting, aromatic, and creamy traditional Middle Eastern dessert.
• Blueberry Bundt Cake: A moist and tender cake studded with juicy blueberries, perfect for any occasion.
• Blueberry Crisp Recipe: A classic dessert featuring warm, bubbling blueberries topped with a crunchy oat crumble.
• Magic Bars with Coconut: An incredibly easy and addictive layered bar cookie, featuring the irresistible flavor of coconut.

We genuinely hope you cherish every recipe we share with you, and this luscious Coconut Cheesecake Bar recipe is no exception. Give it a try, savor every moment, and don’t forget to rate it and share your delightful creation with your cherished friends and family!

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Coconut Cheesecake Bars

By: Mariam Ezzeddine

This simple Coconut Cheesecake Bars recipe yields an incredibly creamy and flavorful dessert. Made with just 11 core ingredients, this cheesecake is guaranteed to be a hit for all coconut lovers! It’s the perfect tropical twist on a beloved traditional cheesecake.

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 50 minutes

Resting Time: 3 hours

Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes

Servings: 16 bars

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 9 sheets graham crackers, finely crushed
• ¼ teaspoons salt
• 4 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• ½ cup toasted coconut

For the Filling:

• 3 (8-oz) blocks cream cheese, room temperature
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup coconut cream, full fat
• 2 eggs, room temperature
• ¼ cup heavy cream, room temperature
• 1 cup toasted coconut

Instructions

For the Crust:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9 inch pan with foil or parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal once cooled.
2. In a small bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, salt, sugar, melted butter, and toasted coconut. Mix until fully combined (mixture should resemble wet sand). Firmly press the crumbs into the bottom of the prepared pan.
3. Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely.

For the Filling:

1. Turn the oven down to 315°F (157°C).
2. In the bowl of a stand mixer or a large bowl with a hand mixer, beat the room temperature cream cheese and sugar together on low speed until fully combined and smooth.
3. Add the full-fat coconut cream and mix until fully combined.
4. Add the room temperature eggs one at a time, mixing well and scraping down the sides of the bowl between additions.
5. Add the room temperature heavy cream. Mix until fully combined.
6. Gently fold in the toasted coconut.
7. Gently pour the cheesecake filling into the cooled crust.
8. Bake the cheesecake bars for 30-40 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly. Then, turn the oven off and allow the cheesecake to sit in the oven for 30 minutes with the door closed. Crack the oven door open and allow to sit until cooled to room temperature.
9. Transfer cheesecake to the fridge and chill for at least 3-4 hours, or until ready to serve.
10. Once thoroughly chilled, cut the cheesecake into 16 equal sized bars using a hot, clean knife.

Notes

• Avoid over-mixing your cheesecake filling, as this can create air bubbles and cause cracks when baking.
• No matter how tempting, do not open the oven door until the cheesecake has finished baking and has started its gradual cooling! The cool air from outside the oven can cause a sudden temperature change, triggering cracks to form.
• For perfectly clean slices, wipe your knife clean and run it under hot water between each cut.

Nutrition

Serving: 16bars |
Calories: 268kcal |
Carbohydrates: 26g |
Protein: 6g |
Fat: 17g |
Saturated Fat: 13g |
Cholesterol: 37mg |
Sodium: 238mg |
Potassium: 171mg |
Fiber: 2g |
Sugar: 19g |
Vitamin A: 204IU |
Vitamin C: 1mg |
Calcium: 85mg |
Iron: 1mg