Discover the delightful fusion of tangy raspberries and tropical coconut with our Raspberry Coconut Magic Bars. These bars combine multiple layers of delicious textures and flavors, making them the perfect dessert for any gathering. Here’s how to whip up these irresistibly sweet bars in your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 1 2/3 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, melted
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 3 cups sweetened, flaked coconut
- 14 oz (1 can) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup seedless raspberry preserves
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/3 cup white baking chips
- 1 tsp shortening
Directions:
- Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
- Create the Base: In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture firmly into a lightly greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Layer It Up: Evenly sprinkle the flaked coconut over the crust. Drizzle the entire surface with sweetened condensed milk.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the coconut layer is lightly browned. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely.
- Add the Raspberry Layer: Spread the raspberry preserves evenly over the cooled crust. Sprinkle the chopped pecans on top.
- Chocolate Drizzle: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semisweet chocolate chips; stir until smooth and drizzle over the pecan layer.
- White Chocolate Finish: Combine the white baking chips and shortening in another microwave-safe bowl. Melt and stir until smooth, then drizzle over the bars.
- Set and Serve: Let the bars set until the chocolate firms up, either in the fridge for quicker setting or at room temperature. Cut into bars and serve.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use a different type of fruit preserve?
A1: Absolutely, feel free to substitute raspberry preserves with strawberry, blueberry, or any preserve you prefer for a personal twist.
Q2: Is there an alternative to graham cracker crumbs?
A2: Yes, you can use crushed digestive biscuits or any similar cookie for a similar effect.
Q3: Can these bars be made vegan?
A3: To make these bars vegan, use vegan butter, coconut condensed milk, and vegan-friendly chocolate.
Q4: How long do these bars keep?
A4: These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Q5: What’s the best way to melt chocolate chips without a microwave?
A5: You can melt chocolate chips in a double boiler on the stove. Ensure that the water does not touch the bottom of the top pot to avoid burning the chocolate.
Q6: Can I freeze these magic bars?
A6: Yes, these bars freeze well. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and freeze. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Chef’s Advice:
For a richer flavor and to prevent the base from becoming too hard, ensure that the butter is fully incorporated into the graham cracker crumbs before pressing into the baking dish. For an extra glossy chocolate drizzle, you can add a teaspoon of coconut oil to the chocolate chips before melting them.