A portable, no-fuss twist on the classic coconut cream pie! Creamy coconut filling, buttery shortbread crust, and toasted coconut topping—all in easy-to-eat bar form. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or anytime cravings strike.
Ingredients:
For the Shortbread Crust:
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1 ½ cups (180g) all-purpose flour
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½ cup (60g) powdered sugar
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½ tsp salt
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¾ cup (170g) cold unsalted butter, cubed
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1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Coconut Filling:
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1 (13.5 oz) can coconut milk (full-fat)
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1 ½ cups (360ml) whole milk
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½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
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¼ cup (30g) cornstarch
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¼ tsp salt
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4 large egg yolks
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1 ½ cups (120g) sweetened shredded coconut, toasted
For the Topping:
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1 ½ cups (360ml) cold heavy cream
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3 tbsp powdered sugar
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½ tsp vanilla extract
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½ cup (40g) toasted coconut flakes (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Make the Shortbread Crust:
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper (with overhang for easy removal).
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In a food processor, pulse flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add cold butter and vanilla, pulsing until crumbly.
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Press firmly into the pan. Bake for 18-20 mins until golden. Let cool.
2. Prepare the Coconut Filling:
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In a saucepan, heat coconut milk + whole milk until steaming (do not boil).
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In a bowl, whisk sugar, cornstarch, salt, and egg yolks until smooth.
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Slowly pour hot milk into yolk mixture, whisking constantly. Return to saucepan and cook on medium heat, stirring constantly, until thick (about 5-7 mins).
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Off heat, stir in vanilla + toasted coconut. Pour over cooled crust and smooth. Chill 2+ hours (or overnight).
3. Add the Whipped Cream Topping:
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Whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla to stiff peaks. Spread over chilled filling.
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Sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes.
4. Slice & Serve!
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Lift bars out using parchment. Cut into squares.
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Keep refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Why You’ll Love This:
✅ No soggy crust—shortbread stays crisp!
✅ Extra coconutty with toasted coconut in the filling and on top.
✅ Perfect for sharing—no forks needed.
Variation: For a chocolate twist, add a melted chocolate layer between the crust and filling!