These Raspberry Coconut Magic Bars bring a delightful blend of flavors and textures to any occasion. With their sweet and tart raspberry layer, chewy coconut topping, and a buttery crust, they make the perfect treat for breakfast, dessert, or even a snack. Easy to prepare and fun for kids to help with, these bars can be made ahead of time for stress-free enjoyment at gatherings or family meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to Make: The straightforward steps mean you can whip these up quickly, making them ideal for both novice and experienced bakers.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of tart raspberries and sweet coconut creates an irresistible flavor profile that will please everyone.
• Customizable: Feel free to switch up the fruit preserves or add different nuts according to your taste preferences!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering, potluck, or just a cozy night in, these bars fit right in.
• Great for Meal Prep: These bars keep well in the fridge, making them an excellent make-ahead option.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Raspberry Coconut Magic Bars, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment on hand makes the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking pan
• Mixing bowl
• Spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking pan: A good-quality baking pan ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect golden crust.
• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl allows you to combine ingredients without spilling or mess.
• Parchment paper: Lining your baking pan with parchment paper makes it easy to lift out the bars after baking.

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Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these tasty Raspberry Coconut Magic Bars:

For the Crust

• 1 and 2/3 cups of graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup butter (1 stick), melted
• 2 tablespoons sugar

For the Filling

• 3 cups sweetened, flaked coconut
• One 14 oz can of sweetened condensed milk
• 1 cup seedless raspberry preserves (or your preferred flavor)
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
• 1/3 cup white baking chips
• 1 teaspoon shortening

How to Make Raspberry Coconut Magic Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, crush 15 oz shortbread cookies until they are fine crumbs.
3. Combine the cookie crumbs with melted butter and sugar until sandy in texture.
4. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a lined baking pan.

Step 2: Add the Raspberry Layer

1. Spread seedless raspberry jam evenly over the crust, ensuring it reaches all edges.

Step 3: Pour on Sweetened Condensed Milk

1. Slowly pour sweetened condensed milk over the raspberry layer.
2. Use a spatula to swirl gently for even coverage across the jam.

Step 4: Top with Coconut and Nuts

1. Sprinkle shredded coconut evenly over the condensed milk layer.
2. Add chopped pecans on top and press gently into the mixture.

Step 5: Add Chocolate Chips

1. Scatter white chocolate chips on top while reserving some for later use.

Step 6: Bake

1. Place in preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and aromatic.

Step 7: Cool Before Serving

1. Allow bars to cool in the pan before cutting into squares to set flavors and texture perfectly.

With just a few simple steps, you’ll have delicious Raspberry Coconut Magic Bars ready to share! Enjoy every gooey bite!

How to Serve Raspberry Coconut Magic Bars

These delightful Raspberry Coconut Magic Bars are perfect for any occasion. Their sweet and tangy flavor makes them a fantastic treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve the bars with a handful of fresh raspberries or blueberries on the side for a burst of freshness.

Drizzled with Chocolate

• Add a drizzle of melted chocolate over the bars just before serving for an extra indulgent touch.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Lightly whipped cream on top adds a rich and creamy contrast to the chewy texture of the bars.

Alongside Vanilla Ice Cream

• Pair these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert combo that everyone will love.

As Part of a Snack Platter

• Slice into smaller pieces and include them in a mixed snack platter with nuts, dried fruits, and other treats for variety.

With Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these bars alongside a cup of coffee or tea to balance the sweetness with some warmth.

How to Perfect Raspberry Coconut Magic Bars

Perfecting your Raspberry Coconut Magic Bars is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh raspberries and high-quality coconut for the best flavor and texture.
• Press Firmly: When pressing the crust into the pan, make sure to apply enough pressure so it holds together after baking.
• Let Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool fully in the pan before cutting; this helps them set properly and makes slicing easier.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to swap raspberry preserves for other fruit flavors like apricot or cherry for a unique twist.
• Storage Matters: Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge to maintain their freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Raspberry Coconut Magic Bars

Raspberry Coconut Magic Bars can be complemented beautifully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds natural sweetness and bright flavors that pair well with the bars.
2. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy, crunchy side that balances the sweetness.
3. Coconut Chia Pudding: This light, tropical pudding echoes the coconut flavor in your magic bars while adding nutritional benefits.
4. Nutty Granola: A handful of homemade or store-bought granola provides crunch and pairs wonderfully with the soft texture of the bars.
5. Simple Green Salad: A fresh green salad dressed lightly can provide contrast, cleansing your palate between bites of sweet treats.
6. Cheese Platter: Offer mild cheeses alongside crackers for those who enjoy savory bites to accompany their desserts.
7. Homemade Lemonade: Refreshing lemonade can cut through the richness of the bars, making each bite more enjoyable.
8. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: These elegant treats not only look appealing but also complement the flavors in your magic bars beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Raspberry Coconut Magic Bars, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Avoid these mistakes for the best results.

• Using stale ingredients: Always check your ingredients for freshness, especially the coconut and preserves. Old materials can affect flavor and texture.
• Skipping the cooling step: Letting the bars cool completely before cutting is crucial. Otherwise, they may crumble and fall apart.
• Not pressing firmly enough: When forming the crust, press it down firmly. A loose crust can lead to a soggy base that won’t hold together.
• Overbaking: Keep an eye on the baking time. Overbaking can dry out your bars and alter their delicious gooeyness.
• Ignoring ingredient substitutions: If you don’t have pecans or certain chocolate chips, feel free to substitute with what you have on hand, but make sure they are compatible in flavor and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week to maintain freshness.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Raspberry Coconut Magic Bars

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating Raspberry Coconut Magic Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 300°F (150°C) and warm bars for about 10-15 minutes for a fresh-baked taste.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 10-20 seconds until warm, but avoid overheating as they can become chewy.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat with a lid for a few minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Raspberry Coconut Magic Bars that may help you with your baking journey.

Can I use frozen raspberries instead of preserves?

Yes, you can use frozen raspberries! Just ensure they’re thawed and well-drained before using them in your recipe.

How can I customize my Raspberry Coconut Magic Bars?

Feel free to mix in different nuts or swap out chocolate types based on your preference. You could also try using other fruit preserves!

Are Raspberry Coconut Magic Bars vegan-friendly?

To make them vegan, substitute butter with plant-based butter and use non-dairy chocolate chips.

What should I do if my bars are too gooey?

If your bars come out too gooey, bake them a little longer next time or allow them extra cooling time before cutting.

Final Thoughts

Raspberry Coconut Magic Bars are not only delicious but also versatile and fun to make. You can easily adjust flavors and textures by adding different fruits or nuts. These bars are perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert—giving you plenty of reasons to try making them today!

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Raspberry Coconut Magic Bars

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Makes approximately 16 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Raspberry Coconut Magic Bars, a treat that perfectly balances sweet and tangy notes. These bars feature a buttery crust layered with luscious raspberry preserves and topped with chewy coconut, crunchy pecans, and chocolate chips. Whether you’re looking for a quick dessert for family gatherings or a tasty afternoon snack, these magic bars are an irresistible choice. They are simple to make, making them perfect for bakers of all skill levels. Prepare them ahead of time for stress-free enjoyment, and watch your guests rave about this deliciously easy treat.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 and 2/3 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 3 cups sweetened flaked coconut
• 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 cup seedless raspberry preserves
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until sandy. Press into the bottom of the prepared pan.
3. Spread raspberry preserves evenly over the crust.
4. Pour sweetened condensed milk over the raspberry layer and swirl gently.
5. Sprinkle coconut and chopped pecans on top, pressing down lightly.
6. Scatter semisweet chocolate chips evenly on top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and fragrant.
8. Cool completely before cutting into squares.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar (45g)
• Calories: 190
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 60mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: Use fresh ingredients for optimal flavor. Feel free to substitute raspberries with your favorite fruit preserves or nuts for a personalized twist. Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.