Creamy Key Lime Coconut Bars 🥥🍋

A Bright, Tropical Dessert with Silky Citrus Flavor

If sunshine had a flavor, it would taste exactly like Creamy Key Lime Coconut Bars. These dreamy dessert bars combine tangy key lime, rich coconut, and a buttery crust into one sliceable, crowd-pleasing treat. They’re refreshing yet indulgent, light yet creamy, and perfectly balanced between sweet and tart.

What makes these bars so special is the harmony between flavors. The citrusy punch of key lime wakes up your palate, while coconut brings warmth and tropical depth. Together, they create a dessert that feels indulgent without being heavy—ideal for spring gatherings, summer parties, holidays, or anytime you’re craving something bright and creamy.

Unlike traditional lemon bars that can lean sharply tart, key lime offers a softer, more aromatic citrus flavor. Pair that with coconut, and the result is a dessert that feels both nostalgic and elevated. These bars are baked, chilled, and sliced into neat squares, making them easy to serve and transport—no forks required (though you’ll want one).

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Why These Bars Are a Must-Bake

There’s a reason coconut and lime are a classic pairing.

• Creamy texture: Silky filling that melts in your mouth
• Balanced flavor: Sweet coconut tempers tangy citrus perfectly
• Easy to slice & serve: Ideal for parties, potlucks, and gifting
• Make-ahead friendly: Even better after chilling overnight
• Visually stunning: Clean layers with tropical flair

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Ingredients

For the Coconut Crust

• All-purpose flour
• Powdered sugar
• Shredded sweetened coconut
• Unsalted butter, melted
• Salt

For the Creamy Key Lime Filling

• Sweetened condensed milk
• Cream cheese, softened
• Egg yolks
• Fresh key lime juice
• Key lime zest
• Vanilla extract

For the Topping (Optional)

• Toasted shredded coconut
• Extra lime zest

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Pan
   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
2. Make the Coconut Crust
   In a bowl, combine flour, powdered sugar, shredded coconut, and salt. Stir in melted butter until a soft dough forms. Press evenly into the prepared pan.
3. Bake the Crust
   Bake for 15–18 minutes until lightly golden and fragrant. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
4. Prepare the Filling
   In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sweetened condensed milk and mix until creamy.
5. Add Citrus Flavor
   Beat in egg yolks, key lime juice, zest, and vanilla until fully combined and silky.
6. Bake the Bars
   Pour filling over the warm crust and smooth the top. Bake for 20–25 minutes until set around the edges with a slight jiggle in the center.
7. Cool and Chill
   Let bars cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best texture.
8. Finish and Slice
   Sprinkle with toasted coconut and lime zest before slicing into bars.

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Pro Tips for Perfect Bars

• Fresh juice matters: Bottled lime juice won’t deliver the same brightness.
• Don’t overbake: The center should barely jiggle—it will firm up as it chills.
• Chill before slicing: Clean edges come from cold bars and a sharp knife.
• Toast your coconut: It adds depth, crunch, and visual appeal.

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Flavor Variations

Want to mix things up?

• Pineapple Coconut Bars: Add crushed pineapple (well-drained) to the filling
• Chocolate Coconut Crust: Swap part of the flour for cocoa powder
• Extra Tangy: Add additional lime zest for bold citrus lovers
• Mini Bars: Bake in a muffin tin for individual portions

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Serving Suggestions

Serve these bars chilled straight from the fridge for the cleanest texture. They pair beautifully with iced tea, coconut coffee, or sparkling water with lime. For a dessert platter, add fresh berries or mango slices for color and contrast.

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Fun Tropical Dessert Fact

Key limes are smaller and more aromatic than regular limes, with a softer acidity. Their floral citrus notes make them ideal for creamy desserts, especially when paired with coconut—a combination deeply rooted in tropical cuisines.

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Final Thoughts

Creamy Key Lime Coconut Bars are the kind of dessert that feels like a mini vacation. Bright, creamy, and just indulgent enough, they’re perfect when you want something refreshing that still satisfies your sweet tooth. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or treating yourself, these bars deliver sunshine in every bite.