Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the most irresistible dessert you've ever encountered! These Coconut Butter Tart Squares are not just a treat; they're a culinary experience that combines the rich, buttery goodness of a perfect crust with a silky-smooth filling that will make your guests beg for the recipe. Imagine biting into a square that's crisp, creamy, and utterly decadent – a dessert so good, it'll become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 16 squares
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess paper to hang over the sides for easy removal.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the shredded coconut, melted butter, and flour. Mix thoroughly until the mixture resembles a crumbly, moist dough.
- Press the coconut-butter mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan, creating a compact base layer. Use the back of a spoon or your fingers to ensure an even surface.
- Bake the crust for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges begin to turn light golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the pre-baked coconut crust, ensuring complete coverage.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 18-20 minutes, or until the top is set and lightly golden around the edges.
- Remove from the oven and let the squares cool completely in the pan at room temperature, approximately 30-40 minutes.
- Using the overhanging parchment paper, carefully lift the entire square out of the pan and transfer to a cutting board.
- Cut into 16 equal squares using a sharp knife, cleaning the blade between cuts for neat edges.
- Serve at room temperature or slightly chilled. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Ensure your butter is fully melted and cooled slightly before mixing with the coconut and flour to create the perfect crust texture.
- When pressing the crust into the pan, use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a measuring cup to create an even, compact layer.
- For the cleanest cuts, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between each slice to get those picture-perfect squares.
- Let the squares cool completely before cutting to help them set and make slicing easier.
- For an extra touch of elegance, you can dust the squares with powdered sugar or top with a light sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes before serving.
- These squares actually taste even better the next day, so don't be afraid to make them in advance!
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their perfect texture and freshness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 160kcal
Carbohydrates: 13g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 40mg
