If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a burst of sunshine and nostalgia in every bite, the Cherry Coconut Magic Bars Recipe is exactly what you need. These bars combine a buttery, crumbly crust with a luscious, chewy coconut filling studded with vibrant maraschino cherries. Each slice offers a divine medley of textures and flavors that will have everyone reaching for seconds — and maybe even thirds. This recipe turns simple pantry staples into a magical treat that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients together for this recipe is refreshingly simple, yet each one plays an essential role. From the crunchy graham cracker crumbs in the crust to the rich sweetness of the condensed milk, every component works in harmony to create that signature magic of the Cherry Coconut Magic Bars Recipe.
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Builds a sturdy yet tender base for the crust, ensuring it holds all the delicious fillings.
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs: Adds gorgeous texture and a hint of warmth to the crust that pairs beautifully with the coconut.
- ⅔ cup packed brown sugar: Brings subtle caramel notes and sweetness to balance the tartness of the cherries.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the crust rise slightly to keep it light and crumbly, avoiding any heaviness.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and cuts through the sweetness just perfectly.
- 1 cup butter, melted: Provides richness and moisture, creating a golden, flavorful crust that holds together wonderfully.
- 4 cups unsweetened finely shredded coconut: The coconut creates the chewy, tropical heart of the bars and adds a lovely texture contrast.
- 2 cans sweetened condensed milk (14 ounces each): Gives the filling its creamy sweetness and binds the coconut and cherries together.
- 2 jars maraschino cherries, drained and chopped (10 ounces each): These vibrant cherries deliver bursts of bright color and a fruity punch throughout the bars.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Infuses warmth and depth, rounding out the overall flavor.
- 1 teaspoon almond extract: Adds a subtle nutty note that complements the cherries and coconut beautifully.
How to Make Cherry Coconut Magic Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F and greasing a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking. Then, in a small bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and stir everything together until the mixture looks like wet sand. This crumbly base forms the perfect sturdy yet tender foundation that holds all the magic to come. Press the crust evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan, pressing firmly so it doesn’t crumble when you slice the bars later.
Step 2: Mix the Filling Ingredients
In a large bowl, stir together the finely shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, chopped maraschino cherries, vanilla extract, and almond extract. This filling is the heart of the Cherry Coconut Magic Bars Recipe — creamy, sweet, and dotted with those lovely bright cherries. Make sure everything is well combined to ensure every bite is bursting with flavor and texture.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Pour the luscious filling mixture over the prepared crust and spread it evenly. Pop the pan into the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the edges start turning a delicate golden brown. The aroma during baking will be irresistible, filling your kitchen with warm hints of vanilla, almond, and toasted coconut. Once done, remove the pan from the oven and set it on a wire rack to cool completely for about an hour.
Step 4: Chill and Set
To get those bars to slice cleanly and develop their signature chewy texture, cover the pan and refrigerate the bars for at least four hours. This chilling step is crucial as it firms everything up, bringing the Cherry Coconut Magic Bars Recipe together beautifully and making it easier to cut clean squares without crumbling.
How to Serve Cherry Coconut Magic Bars Recipe
Garnishes
While these bars are pure magic on their own, a light dusting of powdered sugar can add a lovely finishing touch that makes them look extra festive. You can also garnish with a few extra chopped maraschino cherries or a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes for added flavor and an eye-catching presentation.
Side Dishes
Serve your Cherry Coconut Magic Bars alongside a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly indulgent experience. A fresh berry salad or a cup of hot coffee or tea balances the dessert’s sweetness and makes for a delightful afternoon treat or party platter addition.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re taking these bars to a gathering, consider stacking them neatly on a pretty cake stand or arranging them in colorful cupcake liners. Wrapping individual bars in parchment paper tied with a ribbon makes for charming homemade gifts that everyone will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cut, keep any leftover Cherry Coconut Magic Bars Recipe stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and maintain their perfect texture for about 4 to 5 days, making them a convenient treat to enjoy throughout the week.
Freezing
You can freeze these bars to enjoy much later. Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight for best results.
Reheating
If you prefer warm bars, gently reheat individual pieces in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds. This softens the coconut filling slightly without losing that delightful chewiness that makes the Cherry Coconut Magic Bars Recipe so special.
FAQs
Can I use sweetened shredded coconut instead of unsweetened?
Absolutely! Using sweetened shredded coconut will make the bars sweeter, so you might want to slightly reduce the amount of brown sugar in the crust if you prefer a less sweet dessert.
Do I need to chill the bars before cutting?
Chilling is important to let the filling set properly, which makes slicing much easier and cleaner. Cutting warm bars can cause the filling to ooze and the bars to crumble.
Can I substitute fresh cherries for maraschino cherries?
Fresh cherries are delicious but have a higher moisture content than maraschino cherries, which could affect the texture and sweetness. If using fresh, consider cooking them down slightly to reduce moisture.
Is there a gluten-free option for the crust?
Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour and graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free flour and gluten-free graham cracker crumbs to accommodate gluten sensitivities without sacrificing flavor.
Can these magic bars be made vegan?
With some ingredient swaps such as using a vegan butter alternative and sweetened condensed coconut milk, you can create a vegan version. Keep in mind the texture and flavor may vary slightly but will still be delightful!
Final Thoughts
This Cherry Coconut Magic Bars Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings together nostalgic flavors with an effortless charm. Whether you’re baking for a casual family gathering or a special party, these bars are guaranteed to brighten the table and hearts alike. Give this recipe a try—you might just find your new favorite go-to dessert that everyone will remember and ask you to make again and again.
Print
Cherry Coconut Magic Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 5 hours 55 minutes
- Yield: 24 bars
Description
These Cherry Coconut Magic Bars are a delightful dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker and flour crust topped with a luscious filling of shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, chopped maraschino cherries, and delicate vanilla and almond extracts, baked to golden perfection for a chewy, flavorful treat.
Ingredients
For the crust
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- ⅔ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup butter, melted
For the filling
- 4 cups unsweetened finely shredded coconut
- 2 cans sweetened condensed milk, 14 ounces each
- 2 jars maraschino cherries, drained and chopped, 10 ounces each
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the crust mixture: In a small bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture becomes crumbly but sticks together when pressed.
- Press the crust: Evenly press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the greased baking pan, creating an even layer that will form the base of the bars.
- Mix the filling: In a separate large bowl, thoroughly combine the finely shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, chopped maraschino cherries, vanilla extract, and almond extract until well incorporated.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the coconut and cherry filling over the pressed crust, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the edges are lightly browned and the filling is set.
- Cool the bars: Remove the pan from the oven and set it on a wire rack to cool for one hour to allow the bars to firm up.
- Chill before serving: Cover the cooled pan and refrigerate for at least four hours to fully set the bars before cutting them into squares and serving.
Notes
- Make sure to drain and chop the maraschino cherries well to avoid excess moisture in the bars.
- For easier slicing, chill the bars thoroughly after baking and cooling.
- You can substitute graham cracker crumbs with digestive biscuit crumbs if desired.
- Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- The almond extract enhances the flavor but can be omitted if preferred.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
