🌴 The Best Coconut Cheesecake Bars

Here’s a dreamy dessert that combines rich cheesecake with tropical coconut flavor — introducing The Best Coconut Cheesecake Bars Recipe Ever! 🥥🍰 These bars are creamy, luscious, and perfect for summer parties, holiday platters, or anytime you need a sweet escape.

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🌴 The Best Coconut Cheesecake Bars

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Bake Time: 40–45 minutes
Chill Time: 3 hours minimum
Total Time: 4 hours
Servings: 16 bars

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📝 Ingredients:

For the crust:

• 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted

For the filling:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon coconut extract (optional, but recommended!)
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup sweetened shredded coconut

For topping:

• ¼ cup toasted shredded coconut (optional, but adds great texture!)

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👩‍🍳 Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line an 8×8″ baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides.
2. Make the crust: In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 8–10 minutes, then let cool slightly.
3. Make the cheesecake layer:
   In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and mix until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing after each. Stir in vanilla, coconut extract, sour cream, and shredded coconut until smooth.
4. Pour filling over cooled crust. Smooth the top.
5. Bake for 40–45 minutes or until edges are set and center has a slight jiggle. Turn off the oven and let bars rest inside with the door cracked for 10 minutes.
6. Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate at least 3 hours (or overnight) until fully chilled.
7. Top with toasted coconut just before serving. Slice into bars and enjoy!

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✅ Tips:

• To toast coconut, spread on a baking sheet and bake at 325°F for 4–6 minutes until golden, stirring once.
• Use full-fat cream cheese for best texture.
• Want a nutty twist? Add ¼ cup finely chopped macadamia nuts to the crust.