Lemon Coconut White Chocolate Gooey Bars
If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that captures the essence of sunshine and happiness, look no further than these Lemon Coconut White Chocolate Gooey Bars. These delightful bars are a perfect blend of zesty lemon, sweet coconut, and creamy white chocolate, creating a gooey, dreamy treat that’s hard to resist. The bright flavors paired with a soft, chewy texture make them an ideal choice for any gathering or simply a sweet indulgence when you need a pick-me-up.
The beauty of these bars lies not only in their incredible taste but also in their simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, celebrating a birthday, or just craving something sweet, these gooey bars are sure to impress!
What Sets This Recipe Apart
These Lemon Coconut White Chocolate Gooey Bars stand out for their unique combination of flavors and textures. The tartness of the lemon balances perfectly with the sweetness of the white chocolate and coconut, creating a harmonious blend that dances on your taste buds. The use of lemon cake mix as the base makes preparation incredibly easy, while the addition of sweetened condensed milk ensures that every bite is wonderfully gooey. Plus, they are visually appealing with their sunny yellow color and flecks of coconut, making them a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
What to Buy
To make these delicious Lemon Coconut White Chocolate Gooey Bars, here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, very soft – This will give the bars their rich flavor and chewy texture.
- 1 (16.50-ounce) box lemon cake mix – The star of the show, providing the base flavor and texture.
- 1 large egg – Adds moisture and helps bind the ingredients together.
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut – For that tropical flair and chewy texture.
- 1 cup white chocolate chips – These add a creamy sweetness that complements the tart lemon.
- About 60% of one (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk (about 8 ounces) – This is the magic ingredient that makes the bars gooey and delicious.
Prep & Cook Tools
Before you dive into baking, gather the following tools:
- Mixing bowls – You’ll need at least two for mixing the ingredients.
- Rubber spatula – Perfect for folding in the coconut and chocolate chips.
- Baking pan (9×13 inches) – A non-stick pan works best for easy removal.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Essential for accurately measuring your ingredients.
- Whisk – Great for mixing the cake mix and egg together.
Lemon Coconut White Chocolate Gooey Bars Made Stepwise
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bars bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan
Grease your 9×13-inch baking pan with a bit of butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking. You can also line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Step 3: Mix the Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the very soft unsalted butter, lemon cake mix, and egg. Use a whisk to mix until you have a smooth, thick batter.
Step 4: Spread the Batter
Using a rubber spatula, spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. It will be quite thick, so take your time to smooth it out.
Step 5: Add Coconut and Chocolate
Sprinkle the sweetened shredded coconut and white chocolate chips evenly over the top of the batter.
Step 6: Pour the Condensed Milk
Evenly drizzle approximately 8 ounces of sweetened condensed milk over the top of the coconut and chocolate. This will help create the gooey texture.
Step 7: Bake
Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The edges should be golden brown, and the center will still be a bit soft.
Step 8: Cool and Cut
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan. Once cool, slice into squares or bars, and enjoy!
Spring–Summer–Fall–Winter Ideas
These Lemon Coconut White Chocolate Gooey Bars are versatile and can be enjoyed year-round. Here are some ideas for different seasons:
- Spring: Serve them at a garden party or Easter brunch for a refreshing dessert.
- Summer: Pair with fresh berries and whipped cream for a delightful summer treat.
- Fall: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the batter for a cozy fall flavor.
- Winter: Package them as holiday gifts for friends and family, wrapped in festive packaging.
What Not to Do
To ensure your Lemon Coconut White Chocolate Gooey Bars turn out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls:
- Do not overmix the batter, as this can make the bars tough.
- Don’t skip the sweetened condensed milk; it’s crucial for that gooey texture.
- Avoid baking for too long; the bars should be soft in the center.
- Do not forget to let them cool completely before cutting; otherwise, they might fall apart.
Save for Later: Storage Tips
These gooey bars can be stored easily, making them perfect for meal prep or making ahead:
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- You can also freeze them! Just wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to 3 months.
Quick Questions
Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
Absolutely! While lemon provides a refreshing taste, you can experiment with other flavors like vanilla or coconut cake mix for a different twist.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
Look for golden edges and a soft center. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter.
Can I add nuts to the recipe?
Yes! Chopped macadamia nuts or almonds would add a delightful crunch and flavor to the bars.
What if I don’t have sweetened condensed milk?
You can substitute with a homemade version by combining milk and sugar, but the consistency may vary. For best results, stick with the sweetened condensed milk.
Don’t Miss These
If you’re loving these Lemon Coconut White Chocolate Gooey Bars, you might also enjoy:
- Blueberry Lemon Cream Cheese Bars
- Coconut Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Simple Lemon Cake
- Lemon Coconut Sorbet
The Last Word
There’s something undeniably delightful about these Lemon Coconut White Chocolate Gooey Bars. They capture the essence of summer with their vibrant flavors and gooey goodness, making them a must-try for any dessert lover. Whether you’re enjoying them at a gathering or savoring them on a quiet afternoon, these bars are sure to bring a smile to your face. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and treat yourself to this irresistible dessert that combines simplicity with flavor in every bite. Enjoy!
Lemon Coconut White Chocolate Gooey Bars
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven - Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan - Grease your 9x13-inch baking pan with butter or non-stick spray.
- Step 3: Mix the Base - In a large mixing bowl, combine the butter, lemon cake mix, and egg. Whisk until smooth.
- Step 4: Spread the Batter - Spread the thick batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- Step 5: Add Coconut and Chocolate - Sprinkle the coconut and white chocolate chips over the batter.
- Step 6: Pour the Condensed Milk - Drizzle approximately 8 ounces of sweetened condensed milk over the top.
- Step 7: Bake - Bake for 25-30 minutes until the edges are golden brown.
- Step 8: Cool and Cut - Allow to cool completely before slicing into squares or bars.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the batter.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Freeze individual bars wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 months.
