These Easy Cherry Coconut Bars are a sweet treat that combines juicy cherries with rich coconut. Perfect for a snack, they’re chewy and oh-so-yummy!
Making them is a breeze! Just mix, bake, and cut into bars. I love popping these in my lunchbox for a tasty pick-me-up at snack time. Who can resist? 🍒🥥
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flour: All-purpose flour works best for these bars, giving them structure. If you’re gluten-free, try using a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute for a similar texture.
Rolled oats: I prefer rolled oats for their chewiness. Quick oats can work too, but avoid instant oats as they won’t hold up well in the bars.
Brown sugar: Light brown sugar adds a depth of flavor. You can replace it with coconut sugar or honey if you want a different sweetness.
Butter: Unsalted butter keeps control over the saltiness. If you need a dairy-free option, coconut oil works beautifully and enhances the coconut flavor!
Cherries: Maraschino cherries give a fun pop of color; however, if you prefer a less sugary option, go for dried cherries or fresh cherries, chopped up.
White chocolate: This is optional, but I recommend it for added creaminess. If you want a healthier version, omit it or substitute dark chocolate chips.
How Can I Ensure My Bars Turn Out Perfectly?
To get that perfect texture in your cherry coconut bars, follow these tips closely:
- Mixing: Don’t overmix the batter. Just stir until combined, which helps keep the bars soft and chewy.
- Baking time: Keep an eye on them in the oven! You want the edges to turn golden but not too dark.
- Cooling: Let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting. This helps them hold together better and makes slicing easier.
Using these insights will help you create delicious cherry coconut bars every time!
Easy Cherry Coconut Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/3 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 3/4 cup maraschino cherries, chopped (or dried cherries, chopped)
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. You’ll then need a little time to let it cool before cutting into bars. Overall, you can have delicious cherry coconut bars ready in under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, take an 8×8-inch baking pan and either line it with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This will help the bars come out easily after baking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. Give it a good stir until everything is well mixed. This dry mix will be the base of your bars!
3. Combine Wet Ingredients:
Add the melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Use a spoon or spatula to stir the mixture until just combined—don’t overmix, or the bars may become tough!
4. Add Coconut and Cherries:
Now it’s time to fold in the sweetened shredded coconut, chopped cherries, and if you’re using them, the white chocolate chips. Gently mix until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
5. Press the Mixture into the Pan:
Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking pan, pressing it evenly down into the corners and smoothing the top so it’s level.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You know they’re done when the edges turn a lovely golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them—baking time can vary a bit!
7. Cool and Slice:
Once your bars are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan. This cooling time is essential for cutting clean bars. Once cooled, lift the parchment paper (if using) to remove the bars from the pan and slice them into squares.
8. Store and Enjoy:
Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or pop them in the fridge for longer freshness. Enjoy these chewy, fruity, and coconutty treats whenever you need a quick snack!
These Easy Cherry Coconut Bars are sure to brighten up your day! Enjoy every bite! 🍒🥥
FAQ for Easy Cherry Coconut Bars
Can I Use Fresh Cherries Instead of Maraschino Cherries?
Absolutely! Fresh cherries can be a great alternative. Just make sure to pit and chop them before adding to the mixture. They’ll add a fresher flavor to your bars!
How Can I Make These Bars Gluten-Free?
To make gluten-free cherry coconut bars, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that the oats you use are also labeled gluten-free!
Can I Freeze Leftover Bars?
Yes, you can freeze these bars! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before enjoying.
What Can I Use Instead of White Chocolate Chips?
If you prefer not to use white chocolate, feel free to omit it or substitute with dark chocolate chips for a richer taste. You could even try chopped nuts for some added crunch!
