Meyer Lemon Bars with Coconut
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Meyer Lemon Bars with Coconut are a delightful twist on a classic dessert, combining the bright, tangy flavor of Meyer lemons with the tropical richness of shredded coconut.
Meyer Lemon Bars with Coconut are the perfect balance of tart and sweet, making them an ideal treat for any occasion. The addition of coconut elevates the traditional lemon bar to a new level of flavor and texture.
Why You'll Love These Meyer Lemon Bars
- Tangy Meyer lemon flavor balanced with sweet coconut
- Buttery crust that complements the smooth filling
- A refreshing dessert perfect for any season
A Perfect Balance of Flavors
Meyer Lemon Bars with Coconut offer a delightful balance of flavors that make for an unforgettable dessert experience. The sweet and tangy notes of Meyer lemons harmonize beautifully with the rich, nutty taste of shredded coconut. This combination not only excites the palate but also elevates the humble lemon bar to something truly special. Each bite is a refreshing burst of flavor, making these bars a perfect treat for any occasion.
The unique characteristics of Meyer lemons, which are sweeter and less acidic than regular lemons, allow for a more nuanced flavor profile in these bars. This means that you can enjoy the bright citrus taste without the harshness that sometimes accompanies traditional lemon desserts. The addition of shredded coconut adds a layer of tropical richness, making these bars a delightful escape for your taste buds.
The Joy of Homemade Desserts
Creating your own Meyer Lemon Bars with Coconut is not only rewarding but also a great way to impress family and friends. There's something magical about baking from scratch, and this recipe is approachable for bakers of all skill levels. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dessert that looks and tastes like it came from a gourmet bakery.
Homemade desserts also allow you to control the quality of the ingredients. By using fresh Meyer lemons and high-quality coconut, you ensure that your bars are bursting with flavor. Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen while these bars are baking is absolutely heavenly, creating an inviting atmosphere that's perfect for gatherings or simply enjoying a sweet treat at home.
Serving Suggestions
Meyer Lemon Bars with Coconut are versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. For a casual gathering, cut them into small squares and serve on a platter for guests to enjoy. If you're looking to elevate your presentation, consider plating them with a side of fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream. The addition of fresh fruit not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds an extra layer of flavor that complements the bars beautifully.
For a delightful afternoon tea or brunch, pair these lemon bars with a cup of herbal tea or a refreshing iced tea. The bright flavors of the bars will balance well with the calming notes of the tea, creating a harmonious dessert experience. No matter how you choose to serve them, these Meyer Lemon Bars with Coconut will surely be a hit!
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Filling
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup fresh Meyer lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Meyer lemon zest
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Mix all the ingredients together until well combined.
Instructions
Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, shredded coconut, powdered sugar, softened butter, and salt until crumbly. Press the mixture into the bottom of an 8x8 inch baking dish.
Make the Filling
In a separate bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, eggs, Meyer lemon juice, zest, flour, and baking powder until smooth. Pour the filling over the baked crust and return to the oven.
Bake and Cool
Bake for an additional 20 minutes or until set. Remove from the oven and let cool completely. Once cool, dust with powdered sugar before cutting into squares.
Enjoy your delicious Meyer Lemon Bars with a hint of coconut!
Storage Tips
To keep your Meyer Lemon Bars with Coconut fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to store them for a longer period, consider refrigerating them. The cool environment will help preserve their texture and flavor, allowing you to enjoy them for up to a week.
For extended storage, you can freeze the bars. Cut them into squares and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be kept in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.
Variations to Try
While this recipe for Meyer Lemon Bars with Coconut is delicious as is, feel free to experiment with variations! For a chocolate twist, consider drizzling melted dark chocolate over the cooled bars or incorporating cocoa powder into the crust for a deeper flavor.
You can also customize the filling by adding other citrus zests like lime or orange to enhance the flavor profile further. Mixing in some chopped nuts such as almonds or macadamia nuts into the crust can add an extra crunch that contrasts beautifully with the smooth filling.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use regular lemons instead of Meyer lemons?
Yes, regular lemons will work, but the bars will be more tart.
→ How should I store the leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze Meyer Lemon Bars?
Yes, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap them well.
→ What can I substitute for coconut if I don't like it?
You can omit the coconut or use almond flour for a different texture.
Meyer Lemon Bars with Coconut
Meyer Lemon Bars with Coconut are a delightful twist on a classic dessert, combining the bright, tangy flavor of Meyer lemons with the tropical richness of shredded coconut.
Created by: Anna
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 bars
What You'll Need
For the Crust
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Filling
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup fresh Meyer lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Meyer lemon zest
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- Powdered sugar for dusting
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, shredded coconut, powdered sugar, softened butter, and salt until crumbly. Press the mixture into the bottom of an 8x8 inch baking dish. Bake for 15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, eggs, Meyer lemon juice, zest, flour, and baking powder until smooth. Pour the filling over the baked crust and return to the oven.
Bake for an additional 20 minutes or until set. Remove from the oven and let cool completely. Once cool, dust with powdered sugar before cutting into squares.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Sodium: 95mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 18g
- Protein: 3g