Lime Frosted Coconut Bars
Lime Frosted Coconut Bars are chewy, buttery coconut dessert bars crowned with a creamy lime frosting for a fresh, tropical finish. From the first whiff of sweet toasted coconut and zesty lime, these bars promise a sunny burst of flavor that’s creamy on top, delicately crisp at the edges, and irresistibly soft in the middle. I still remember baking a batch with my mom in our tiny kitchen, licking the lime-spiked icing from the spoon while waiting for the bars to cool one of those simple, golden moments that linger.
What makes this recipe special is how it blends familiar, homey flavors with an unexpected citrus twist, all using easy pantry staples. You’re just moments away from a treat that feels like a hug; let’s get you baking!
Why You’ll Love These Bars
- Buttery coconut base with zesty lime frosting: Imagine a golden, coconut-studded crust layered with creamy icing that bursts with fresh lime each bite is a mini vacation.
- Chewy, creamy, and bright like summer in every bite: These bars strike the perfect texture balance: soft and chewy underneath, silky and citrusy on top, with a sunny aroma that fills your kitchen.
- Easy for gatherings, potlucks, or “just because” baking days: No fancy tools or rare ingredients just classic pantry staples and a little love, making these friendly for any occasion.
- Nostalgic, homey flavors with a tropical twist: They bring the comfort of childhood cookie bars, but with an irresistible sprinkle of coconut and a cool breeze of lime zest, guaranteed to draw smiles.
- Perfect for comfort seekers and coconut-lovers alike: Whether you’re craving something cozy or simply obsessed with coconut, these bars wrap you up like a hug straight from the oven.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Unsalted Butter: Provides richness and gives the base that irresistible, slightly crisp edge around every chewy bite.
- Brown Sugar & Granulated Sugar: A mix of sugars adds deep, caramel notes and a little crispy sparkle on top.
- Eggs: Helps bind the bars and keeps them fabulously soft inside.
- Vanilla Extract: Rounds out the coconut and lime, bringing cozy, bakery-style aroma to your kitchen.
- All-Purpose Flour: The classic choice for a plush, cakey chew. Swap in a cup-for-cup gluten-free blend if needed.
- Baking Powder & Salt: Essential for gentle lift and that perfect sweet-savory balance.
- Shredded Coconut: You can use sweetened for extra decadence or unsweetened for less sugar both will deliver lovely, toasty flavor.
- Powdered Sugar: Gives the lime frosting its creamy, cloud-like texture.
- Fresh Lime Juice & Zest: Key to that zingy, sunshine-bright frosting. Use the freshest limes you can for maximum flavor and color.
- Milk: Loosens up the frosting until it’s perfectly spreadable. Any dairy or non-dairy milk works here.
- Extra Coconut & Lime Zest: To sprinkle over the top makes every bar look inviting and bakery-worthy.
How to Make Lime Frosted Coconut Bars
- Mix the Chewy Coconut Base
In a big bowl, whisk together the melted butter with both sugars until the mixture looks glossy and smells almost caramel-y. Add the eggs and vanilla, and watch as the batter fluffs up just a little it’ll start to look pale and smooth. - Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, stir the flour, baking powder, and salt together, then gently fold it into the wet ingredients. Add the shredded coconut last, making sure every bit is surrounded by the buttery batter without overworking it this is the secret to those chewy, tender bars. - Spread and Bake
Evenly spread the thick, coconut-laced batter into a lined baking pan. Smooth the top and bake until the edges turn a soft golden color and your kitchen fills with a sweet, toasty aroma. The bars should feel springy, with a slight chew when pressed lightly.
- Cool Completely
Let your bars cool in the pan until they’re no longer warm to the touch. This is key: patience helps the crumb set, making them easier to frost and slice. - Whip Up the Lime Frosting
Beat softened butter until airy, then gradually add powdered sugar, lime juice, and milk, whisking until creamy. Stir in lime zest for a punchy, fragrant lift your frosting should taste tangy and sweet with a luscious, spreadable texture. - Frost and Garnish
Once cool, generously frost the bars, swirling the topping as thickly as you wish. Decorate with extra coconut and flecks of fresh lime zest, transforming your bars into true tropical treats. - Slice and Enjoy
Carefully slice into tidy bars, each with vibrant layers and that signature sweet-tart citrus aroma. Pour yourself a cup of tea and savor your cozy, homemade creation.
Tips for the Best Results
- Don’t Overbake the Base: The secret to ultra-chewy bars is pulling them from the oven when the edges are golden but the middle still looks slightly soft. The bars will firm up as they cool, staying wonderfully moist rather than dry.
- Creamy Lime Frosting Magic: For the creamiest, zestiest frosting, use softened butter and beat until fluffy before adding your powdered sugar and lime juice. Taste as you go fresh lime zest really brightens the whole pan!
- Slice When Cool: Wait until the bars are fully cooled and the frosting is set before slicing. Use a sharp knife, wiping clean between cuts, for bakery-worthy squares.
- Parchment Trick: Always line your pan with parchment paper for easy bar removal and picture-perfect edges.
- Bake Like a Pro: For more chewy bar and cookie inspiration, check out these brown butter baking tips for next-level texture secrets.
Variations & Easy Swaps
Toasted Coconut Magic
Toast your shredded coconut in the oven for a few golden minutes before folding it into the batter. It’ll give your bars a deep, nutty aroma and extra crunch just like a summer afternoon at the beach.
Dairy-Free & Vegan Friendly
Swap in plant-based butter and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water, mixed and rested) if you’d like these bars to be fully vegan. A good vegan cream cheese or coconut milk in the frosting can work wonders, too!
Citrus Twist
Replace the lime with lemon or orange for a different kind of sunny zing. Each citrus offers a new flavor mood, so there’s plenty of room for creative baking adventures.
Berry & Nut Add-Ins
Gently fold in a handful of chopped pistachios, berries, or dried cranberries to upgrade the texture and color. For more inspiration, check out these pistachio and cranberry cookie ideas the flavor play is endless!
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Keeping Bars Moist: Store your Lime Frosted Coconut Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for two to three days. Press a piece of wax paper or parchment between layers to keep them soft and prevent the frosting from sticking.
- Storing in the Fridge: For longer freshness, tuck the bars into the fridge. They’ll stay chewy and bright for up to a week, but let them warm slightly before enjoying for the best texture.
- Freezing for Later: Individually wrap bars in plastic wrap and freeze in a zip-top bag for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature don’t rush it; the frosting deserves to be creamy, not icy!
- Re-crisping the Base: If the base feels a little soft after thawing, pop your unfrosted bars in a low oven for a few minutes to revive that golden chew. Frost after they’ve cooled completely.
How to Serve These Bars
- Cozy coffee companion: These Lime Frosted Coconut Bars are pure delight alongside your favorite mug of coffee or tea. That burst of lime tang wakes up your senses, while the coconut base feels like something you’d enjoy on a lazy weekend morning, curled up by the window.
- Dessert platter stunner: Arrange the bars on a white cake stand with a scattering of extra lime zest for a pop of color. Pair with juicy berries or pineapple chunks for a vibrant, welcoming spread your guests will swoon over the tropical vibe.
- Gifting made easy: Nestle a few bars in a box lined with parchment, add a handwritten note, and watch someone’s day brighten instantly. Their sweet fragrance and cheery color make every gift feel homemade and heartfelt.
- Picnic or potluck perfect: Tuck slices next to sandwiches and lemonade, or serve as part of a celebratory backyard meal. For more tropical fruit dessert pairing, add pineapple rings for an extra-festive feel.
- Sweet party inspiration: Layer bars beside cupcakes, cookies, or even a drizzle of whipped cream think of them as a sunny, crowd-pleasing addition inspired by strawberry shortcake dessert inspiration.
Lime Frosted Coconut Bars
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, whisk the melted butter with brown sugar and granulated sugar until creamy and smooth.
- Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract. Mix until the batter turns lighter and fluffy.
- In a separate bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Gently fold in shredded coconut.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. The mixture will be thick.
- Bake for 22–25 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Do not overbake.
- Once baked, let the bars cool completely in the pan.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter for the frosting until fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar, alternating with lime juice and milk, beating until smooth and spreadable. Stir in lime zest.
- If frosting is too thick, add a splash more milk. If too thin, sift in extra powdered sugar. It should be creamy and spreadable.
- Once bars are cool, spread frosting generously over the top. Sprinkle with extra coconut and lime zest.
- Slice into bars and serve.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Can I make Lime Frosted Coconut Bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the bars a day or two before you need them. Just let them cool fully, frost, and store covered in the fridge. The flavor actually deepens, and the frosting stays dreamy and fresh perfect for stress-free gatherings or sweet surprises.
Can I use bottled lime juice instead of fresh?
While bottled lime juice works in a pinch, you’ll miss out on that vibrant, tangy aroma and flecks of zest that brighten both flavor and look. If possible, opt for fresh limes the difference is like a burst of sunshine in every bite.
What’s the best way to cut the bars for clean edges?
For neat, bakery-pretty slices, chill the frosted bars until set, then use a sharp knife. Wipe the blade between cuts this little step keeps the layers crisp and the frosting edges lovely, so your treats look as inviting as they taste.
Do I need to toast the coconut before baking?
Toasting isn’t required, but it’s a cozy upgrade if you crave more nuttiness and crunch. Toast the coconut lightly on a baking sheet until golden and fragrant, then add it to your batter. The kitchen will smell like a warm, tropical hug so worth it!
