If you are on the hunt for a dessert that joyfully melds nutty coconut, tangy cherries, and a buttery graham cracker base, look no further than this Cherry Coconut Bars Recipe. These bars are an irresistible treat that offer a perfect balance of sweetness and texture with every bite. The crunchy crust combined with the creamy, cherry-filled topping creates a delightful experience that feels like sunshine wrapped up in a dessert. Whether for a casual gathering or a special occasion, these bars are guaranteed to bring smiles all around.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled with a creamy off-white mixture that has a smooth texture. On top of this base, there is a scattered layer of bright red pieces with a slightly shiny appearance, evenly spread over the surface. A wooden spoon with a gray scoop is partly immersed in the bowl, resting on the side with some red pieces on it. The scene is softly lit, giving a fresh and simple look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Cherry Coconut Bars Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredient list. Each component plays a crucial role — from the buttery graham cracker crust that provides a crunchy foundation to the luscious coconut topping enriched by vanilla and almond extracts. The maraschino cherries are the shining stars, adding pops of color and bursts of flavor that take these bars to the next level.

1 cup unsalted butter, melted: Provides richness and helps bind the crust for that perfect crumbly texture.
1 cup graham cracker crumbs: Forms the base with a slightly sweet, nutty flavor that complements the coconut topping.
2/3 cup brown sugar, packed: Adds a deep caramel sweetness and moistness to the crust.
1 1/2 cups flour: Gives structure to the crust so it holds together through baking and serving.
1 teaspoon baking powder: Lightens the crust slightly for a tender bite.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
4 cups sweetened shredded coconut: Delivers chewy texture and tropical sweetness to the topping.
28 ounces sweetened condensed milk: Binds the topping ingredients and adds a luscious creaminess.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Infuses warm floral notes that accentuate the coconut beautifully.
1 teaspoon almond extract: Adds a subtle nutty aroma and depth that pairs perfectly with cherries.
2 cups maraschino cherries: Bring vibrant color and juicy bursts of tangy sweetness.

How to Make Cherry Coconut Bars Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. A well-preheated oven ensures an even bake. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with baking spray to prevent sticking and make removal effortless later on.

Step 2: Make the Graham Cracker Crust

In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, graham cracker crumbs, and brown sugar. Stir these together until the mixture looks uniformly moist and crumbly—that’s your crust waiting to happen. Next, sift in the flour, baking powder, and salt then gently mix until everything is just combined to avoid toughening the crust. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish, creating a sturdy foundation for your topping.

Step 3: Prepare the Cherry Coconut Topping

Using the same mixing bowl, add the shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Mix thoroughly to combine the sticky, fragrant mixture. Chop the maraschino cherries into smaller pieces and pat them dry using paper towels—this prevents extra moisture from making the topping soggy. Gently fold these cherries into the coconut mixture, ensuring you distribute them evenly for bursts of cherry in every bite.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Spread the cherry coconut topping evenly over the graham cracker crust, smoothing it out with a spatula. Bake the entire dish in your preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes. You’re looking for a lightly browned top that signals the magic happening within. Let the bars cool completely at room temperature once out of the oven to set properly before the next crucial step.

Step 5: Chill Before Serving

Refrigerate the bars for at least three hours after they have fully cooled. This chilling step helps the bars to firm up, making slicing clean and easy, while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Patience here will be richly rewarded with bars that hold their shape and taste absolutely divine.

How to Serve Cherry Coconut Bars Recipe

The image shows three square dessert bars stacked vertically in the center. Each bar has two layers: the bottom layer is light brown and crumbly, while the top layer is creamy white with visible bits of bright red cherries mixed throughout. The texture of the top layer looks smooth with sporadic cherry pieces, and the bars are placed on a white marbled surface. Around the stack, there are a few more pieces of the dessert slightly blurred in the background and some loose red cherries scattered nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate the serving presentation, sprinkle a few extra toasted coconut flakes on top just before slicing. Fresh cherries or a dusting of powdered sugar also add visual appeal and a hint of extra sweetness. These small additions make the dessert feel even more special, especially if you’re serving guests.

Side Dishes

Pair these cherry coconut bars with a scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat. The creamy cold sides contrast beautifully with the chewy texture of the bars. For a fresh twist, some lightly macerated berries or a mint sprig can add a refreshing note.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider cutting the bars into small squares and arranging them on a decorative platter for parties. You can also stack a few bars with layers of whipped cream in between for a layered dessert parfait vibe. Wrapping individual bars in parchment for on-the-go snacks is another sweet idea especially for gifting or picnics.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After slicing, store any leftover Cherry Coconut Bars Recipe bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They remain fresh and chewy for up to five days, making them a perfect make-ahead dessert option. The chilled bars actually taste even better after a day as the flavors deepen!

Freezing

These bars freeze beautifully for up to two months. Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator to bring back their delightful texture without sogginess.

Reheating

While these bars are best served chilled or at room temperature, if you prefer them warm, you can microwave a bar for 10 to 15 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat, as the sweetened condensed milk can become too gooey. Warming brings out the coconut aroma magnificently.

FAQs

Can I substitute fresh cherries for maraschino cherries in this Cherry Coconut Bars Recipe?

Fresh cherries have a different moisture content and flavor profile, so while you can use them, be sure to pit and chop them well and possibly reduce other liquids. The result will be less sweet and more tart, but still delicious if you prefer a fresher fruit taste.

Is it necessary to chill the bars for three hours?

Chilling is essential as it allows the bars to set firmly, making them easier to cut and enhancing the flavor melding. Without sufficient chilling, the bars may be too soft and sticky to handle properly.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the graham cracker crumbs and flour with certified gluten-free alternatives. The texture might vary slightly, but the flavors will remain fantastic in this Cherry Coconut Bars Recipe.

How long will the bars keep at room temperature?

Due to the sweetened condensed milk and cherries, it’s best to keep the bars refrigerated. At room temperature, they can become sticky and may spoil within a few hours, especially in warm conditions.

Do these bars have a crunchy or chewy texture?

They offer a delightful combination: a crisp and buttery graham cracker crust paired with a chewy, moist coconut and cherry topping. This contrast is one of the reasons they are so satisfying to eat.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a dessert that is as charming to serve as it is delicious to eat, this Cherry Coconut Bars Recipe should be your next kitchen adventure. It’s a sweet slice of happiness that comes together with simple ingredients, creating unforgettable layers of flavor and texture. Don’t wait for a special occasion—make it today and watch these bars disappear fast!

Cherry Coconut Bars Recipe