If you love rich caramel, buttery bases, and golden coconut toppings, these Golden Coconut Caramel Bars are about to become your new favorite traybake. With a soft shortbread-style base, a thick layer of gooey caramel, and a lightly crisp coconut topping, this easy dessert is perfect for bake sales, holidays, or simple weekend treats. Best of all, it’s made with pantry staples and comes together with minimal effort.
Ingredients
For the Base
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Caramel Layer
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons golden syrup or corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Coconut Topping
- 1½ cups shredded coconut
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Prepare the Base
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking pan with parchment paper.
Mix melted butter, sugar, flour, and salt until crumbly. Press firmly into the pan and bake for 15 minutes until lightly golden. - Make the Caramel
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine condensed milk, brown sugar, butter, and syrup. Stir constantly until thick and golden (about 8–10 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in vanilla. - Assemble the Bars
Pour caramel evenly over the baked base. - Add the Coconut Topping
In a bowl, mix coconut, flour, sugar, egg, and melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the caramel layer. - Bake
Return to oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, until the topping is golden. - Cool & Slice
Allow to cool completely before slicing into squares for clean cuts.
Tips for Perfect Coconut Caramel Bars
- Stir caramel constantly to avoid burning
- Use fine shredded coconut for even browning
- Chill before slicing for neat, bakery-style squares
Conclusion
These Golden Coconut Caramel Bars are the perfect balance of chewy, buttery, and sweet. Easy to prepare and impossible to resist, they’re ideal for sharing—or keeping all to yourself. Serve them with coffee, tea, or as a decadent dessert anytime you want a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.