Raspberry Coconut Bars – Sweet, Tangy, and Perfectly Chewy

Hello friends, Chef James here, back in my kitchen at Tiramisucake.com. Today I’m sharing a dessert that feels like a little slice of sunshine: Raspberry Coconut Bars. These bars combine a buttery base, a vibrant raspberry layer, and a chewy coconut topping that’s impossible to resist. They’re the kind of treat that disappears fast at family gatherings, bake sales, and casual get-togethers.

I created this recipe while looking for something fruit-forward yet indulgent, similar in spirit to Soft Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies, but in an easy-to-slice bar format. Coconut and raspberry are a classic pairing—sweet, tangy, and just rich enough—which makes these bars feel both refreshing and comforting at the same time.

Naturally, these Raspberry Coconut Bars fit right into our Cakes and Pastries pillar. They’re simple enough for weekday baking, yet elegant enough to sit proudly next to recipes like Triple Almond Cookies on a dessert table. If you’re ever asked to bring something homemade that looks impressive but travels well, this recipe checks every box.

Why You’ll Love These Raspberry Coconut Bars

• Perfect balance of sweet coconut and tangy raspberry
• Easy bar format—no scooping or shaping required
• Soft, chewy texture with a buttery base
• Great make-ahead dessert for parties
• A true crowd favorite for all ages

Do you prefer desserts that are fruity and fresh, or rich and buttery? These bars give you the best of both worlds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each layer plays an important role in the final texture and flavor:

• All-purpose flour (1½ cups) – Forms the sturdy base
• Unsalted butter (¾ cup, melted) – Adds richness and moisture
• Granulated sugar (¾ cup) – Sweetens the crust and topping
• Eggs (2 large) – Bind the layers together
• Raspberry preserves (¾ cup) – Provides bright fruit flavor
• Shredded sweetened coconut (1½ cups) – Chewy, toasted texture
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon) – Enhances sweetness
• Salt (¼ teaspoon) – Balances the sugar

Chef James tip: Choose a high-quality raspberry preserve with visible seeds for the most authentic flavor.

How to Make Raspberry Coconut Bars

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
3. Stir in flour and salt until just combined.
4. Spread two-thirds of the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
5. Spoon raspberry preserves over the base and gently spread.
6. Fold shredded coconut into the remaining batter.
7. Drop coconut batter over the raspberry layer, gently spreading.
8. Bake for 30–35 minutes until golden and set.
9. Cool completely before slicing into bars.

Extra tip from Chef James: Letting the bars cool fully helps the layers set cleanly for perfect slices.

Recipe Tips & Variations

• Extra creamy twist: Serve alongside a Creamy Dessert Recipe for contrast
• No-bake pairing: Add these to a dessert table with a No-Bake Creamy Dessert
• Berry swap: Try cranberry preserves for a flavor similar to Cranberry Lemon Bars
• Elegant finish: Dust lightly with powdered sugar before serving

Storage & Reheating

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days
• Refrigerate for up to 5 days for a firmer texture
• Freeze sliced bars for up to 2 months
• Enjoy chilled or bring to room temperature before serving

FAQs About Raspberry Coconut Bars

Can I use fresh raspberries instead of preserves?
Preserves work best for consistent texture and sweetness.

Are these bars very sweet?
They’re balanced—sweet coconut with a bright raspberry tang.

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, they taste even better the next day.

Do they travel well?
Absolutely—this is a true crowd-pleasing dessert.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a larger sheet pan and adjust baking time.

Are these kid-friendly?
Very much so—no alcohol or intense flavors.

What to Serve With Raspberry Coconut Bars

These bars shine when served alongside other colorful desserts like Strawberry Velvet Cheesecake Truffles or something festive like Snowball Cake. For a more elegant spread, pair them with Luxurious Pink Velvet Raspberry Cheesecake.

Final Thoughts from Chef James

Raspberry Coconut Bars are proof that simple layers can create extraordinary results. They’re fruity, chewy, buttery, and endlessly shareable—everything I look for in a dessert that brings people together. Whether you’re baking for family or friends, this recipe belongs right at home in our Cakes and Pastries collection.

As always, remember to follow basic food safety guidance from the USDA at https://www.fsis.usda.gov/, and feel free to draw inspiration from trusted culinary sources like Serious Eats and Food Network. Try these bars, slice them generously, and don’t forget to let me know how they turn out. Happy baking 🥥🍓

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