Coconut Cream Pie Bars: A Creamy Tropical Dessert Favorite

Coconut Cream Pie Bars bring all the rich, creamy goodness of classic coconut cream pie into an easy-to-serve bar form. With a buttery crust, silky coconut custard filling, and fluffy whipped topping, these bars are perfect for potlucks, holidays, summer gatherings, or anytime you’re craving a tropical-inspired dessert.

They’re indulgent yet simple to make, slice beautifully, and are guaranteed to impress coconut lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy & Dreamy – Smooth coconut filling with a light topping
• Easier Than Pie – No tricky pie crust shaping
• Perfect for Sharing – Bars are great for gatherings
• Make-Ahead Friendly – Ideal for prepping in advance
• Classic Flavor – Coconut cream pie made simple
• Customizable – Easy to adjust sweetness or topping

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Bake Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 3 hours
• Total Time: About 3 hours 35 minutes

Ingredients

Crust

• 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ⅓ cup melted butter
• 2 tbsp sugar

Coconut Filling

• 1½ cups coconut milk
• 1 cup whole milk
• ¾ cup sugar
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• 3 egg yolks
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut

Topping

• 1½ cups whipped cream or whipped topping
• Toasted coconut flakes (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Crust
   Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press firmly into a lined 9×13-inch pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12–15 minutes. Cool completely.
2. Prepare the Coconut Filling
   In a saucepan, whisk coconut milk, milk, sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened.
3. Finish the Filling
   Remove from heat and stir in butter, vanilla, and shredded coconut. Spread evenly over cooled crust.
4. Chill
   Refrigerate for at least 3 hours until fully set.
5. Add Topping
   Spread whipped cream over the chilled filling and sprinkle with toasted coconut if desired.
6. Slice & Serve
   Cut into bars using a clean, sharp knife.

How to Serve

• Plating Tips: Serve chilled for best texture
• Perfect Occasions: Potlucks, holidays, summer parties
• Pairings: Coffee, iced tea, or coconut latte
• Presentation Tip: Toasted coconut adds flavor and crunch

Additional Tips

• Stir custard constantly to avoid lumps
• Chill fully before slicing for clean bars
• Use full-fat coconut milk for best flavor
• Line pan with parchment for easy removal

Variations

• Chocolate Coconut Bars: Add a chocolate layer under the filling
• No-Bake Version: Use a no-bake graham crust
• Extra Coconut: Add coconut extract for stronger flavor
• Lime Twist: Add a little lime zest to the filling

Storage & Freezing

• Refrigerate: Up to 4 days
• Freeze: Up to 2 months (without whipped topping)
• Serve from Freezer: Thaw overnight in refrigerator

Special Equipment

• Saucepan
• Whisk
• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Spatula

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use boxed pudding mix?
Yes, but homemade custard gives better flavor.

Do these bars travel well?
Yes, keep them chilled until serving.

Can I make them ahead of time?
Absolutely, they’re best made the day before.

Are these very sweet?
They’re balanced, but you can reduce sugar slightly if preferred.

Conclusion

Coconut Cream Pie Bars are creamy, comforting, and irresistibly tropical. With their buttery crust, rich coconut filling, and fluffy topping, they deliver classic pie flavor in an easy, shareable dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.