Introduction
Transform everyday ingredients into irresistible cherry coconut magic bars! This recipe is surprisingly easy, quick to prepare, and bursting with delightful flavor. Get ready to impress your friends and family with minimal effort and maximum deliciousness. These bars are the perfect sweet treat for any occasion, from casual gatherings to holiday celebrations.
Why This Works
These magic bars strike the perfect balance of sweet, tart, and chewy textures. The buttery crust provides a delightful contrast to the moist coconut topping, while the juicy cherries add a vibrant burst of flavor. The recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it accessible to everyone, and the simple technique ensures foolproof results every time. It’s impressive dessert with minimal effort!
Key Ingredients
🍪 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
🧈 ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
🍯 ½ cup granulated sugar
🥥 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
🍒 1 (15 ounce) can cherry pie filling
🍫 ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Mix until well combined and the crumbs are evenly moistened.
2️⃣ Press the crust: Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking pan. Ensure an even layer for consistent baking.
3️⃣ Layer the coconut: Evenly sprinkle the granulated sugar over the pressed graham cracker crust. Then, spread the sweetened shredded coconut over the sugar layer.
4️⃣ Add the cherries: Pour the cherry pie filling evenly over the coconut layer.
5️⃣ Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and the center is set. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
6️⃣ Chocolate topping: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly over the warm bars. Let the chocolate melt slightly before spreading evenly.
7️⃣ Cool completely: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. This allows the bars to set properly and prevents them from crumbling.
Handy Tips
- For a nuttier flavor, add ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the crust mixture.
- If you don’t have graham cracker crumbs, you can crush graham crackers in a food processor or zip-top bag.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate chips—dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate would be delicious!
- Don’t overbake the bars, or they will become dry. Start checking for doneness at the 20-minute mark.
Heat Control
The oven temperature of 350°F (175°C) is crucial for achieving the perfect balance of a crisp crust and a moist, chewy topping. Overbaking will result in dry bars, while underbaking will leave the center gooey. Visual cues to look for are lightly golden-brown edges and a set center. If the edges are browning too quickly, tent the pan loosely with foil.
Crunch Factor
The crunch comes primarily from the graham cracker crust. Pressing the crumbs firmly into the pan ensures a solid, crunchy base. The coconut adds a bit of textural contrast, providing a slightly softer, yet still pleasant bite.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- For easier cleanup, line your baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to lift the bars out once cooled.
- To speed up the cooling process, place the pan on a wire rack.
- For a more intense cherry flavor, add a teaspoon of cherry extract to the pie filling.
Storage Tips
Store leftover magic bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, microwave individual squares for 10-15 seconds, or until warmed through.
Gift Packaging Ideas
These bars make wonderful gifts! Cut them into individual squares and package them in cellophane bags tied with ribbon. You can also use small, clear containers or decorative boxes. Add a personalized label with a festive touch for a truly special presentation.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Tropical Twist: Add ½ cup of finely chopped pineapple to the cherry pie filling.
🌟 Chocolate Cherry Almond: Add ½ cup of chopped almonds to the crust and use dark chocolate chips.
🌟 Raspberry Delight: Substitute raspberry pie filling for the cherry pie filling.
🌟 Lemon Coconut: Add the zest of one lemon to the coconut layer and use white chocolate chips.
Troubleshooting
- Dry bars: This usually indicates overbaking. Next time, reduce the baking time by a few minutes and check for doneness earlier.
- Gooey center: This means underbaking. Bake for a few more minutes, checking frequently.
- Crumbly crust: Ensure you’ve pressed the crust firmly into the pan and used enough melted butter.
FAQ
- Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs.
- Can I double the recipe? Yes, simply double all the ingredients and use a larger baking pan.
- How long do the bars last? Stored properly, they last up to 3 days at room temperature or a week in the refrigerator.
- Can I freeze these bars? Yes, freeze them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
- What if I don’t have cherry pie filling? You can use other fruit pie fillings like blueberry, strawberry, or raspberry.
Conclusion
These Cherry Coconut Magic Bars are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! We encourage you to experiment with different flavor combinations and share your creations with friends and family. Enjoy the sweet and fruity goodness!
Cherry Coconut Magic: A Tropical Twist
A delightful dessert combining the sweetness of cherries with the richness of coconut, creating a tropical treat that's sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
- 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup coconut milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon butter, for greasing the baking dish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 180u00b0C (350u00b0F).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherries, sugar, and cornstarch. Toss to coat the cherries evenly and set aside.
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, coconut milk, vanilla extract, almond extract, and salt until well combined.
- Add the shredded coconut to the egg mixture and stir until fully incorporated.
- Grease a baking dish with butter and pour the cherry mixture into the bottom, spreading it evenly.
- Pour the coconut-egg mixture over the cherries, ensuring they are fully covered.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool for 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Tips
- For added texture, sprinkle some extra shredded coconut on top before baking.
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra treat.