Indulge in the perfect balance of sweet and tart with these Lemon Coconut Bars.

With a buttery shortbread crust, zesty lemon filling, and toasted coconut topping, they’re everything a refreshing dessert should be.

Whether you’re planning a brunch, a summer potluck, or just need a bright afternoon pick-me-up, these bars are easy to make and even easier to devour.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Vibrant Flavor – Fresh lemon juice and sweet coconut bring a sunny, citrusy kick.

Texture Perfection – Buttery crust, creamy filling, and chewy coconut topping in every bite.

Pantry-Friendly – You likely have most ingredients already in your kitchen.

Crowd-Pleasing – Great for gatherings, bake sales, or make-ahead treats.

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Shortbread Crust

All-purpose flour – classic base for a tender crust.

Powdered sugar – adds sweetness and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Cold unsalted butter – the key to a flaky, rich crust.

Pinch of salt – enhances overall flavor.

Lemon Coconut Filling

Eggs – bind and thicken the lemon layer.

Granulated sugar – balances the tart lemon.

Fresh lemon juice – the star flavor.

Baking powder – helps create a soft, smooth filling.

Sweetened flaked coconut – toasted golden on top for added chew and sweetness.

Pro Tips Before You Start

Use cold butter – this ensures the crust turns out flaky and tender.

Fresh lemon juice matters – bottled can’t match the bright flavor.

Spread the coconut evenly – so every bite gets that golden topping.

Cool completely – for clean slices and a perfectly set filling.

Line your pan with parchment – for easy lift-out and less cleanup.

How to Make Lemon Coconut Bars

Step 1: Prep Your Pan
Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C).

Lightly butter a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Make the Crust
In a food processor, combine flour, powdered sugar, salt, and cold cubed butter.

Pulse until the mixture forms coarse crumbs.

Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the baking dish.

Bake for 15 minutes, or until lightly golden around the edges.

Step 3: Mix the Lemon Filling
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, lemon juice, and baking powder until smooth.

Pour the mixture over the hot crust.

Sprinkle the sweetened flaked coconut evenly over the top.

Step 4: Bake Again
Return the pan to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the filling is set and the coconut is golden brown.

Step 5: Cool and Slice
Let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

Once cooled, cut into squares. Dust with powdered sugar or lemon zest if desired.

What to Serve It With

A cup of chamomile or mint tea

Sparkling lemonade or citrus-infused water

A bowl of mixed berries or a fruit salad

As part of a dessert board with brownies and cookies

Variations / Substitutions

Citrus Swap – Use lime or orange juice instead of lemon.

Nutty Twist – Add chopped almonds or pecans to the topping.

Gluten-Free – Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the crust.

Extra Tang – Add lemon zest to the filling for bolder flavor.

Toasted Coconut – Toast the coconut slightly before topping if you prefer deeper flavor.

Storage & Leftovers

Refrigerator – Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer – Wrap each bar in plastic wrap, place in a freezer-safe bag, and freeze for up to 2 months.

Thaw overnight in the fridge.

Make-Ahead Tip – These bars are perfect for making the day before your event.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
Fresh is best for bright citrus flavor, but bottled juice works in a pinch.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The coconut should be golden brown and the lemon filling should be set but slightly jiggly in the center.

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! They’re great the next day once chilled and flavors have melded.

Do I have to use a food processor for the crust?
Nope. You can use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to work the butter into the flour mixture.

Can I add zest to the lemon filling?
Absolutely. It adds more fragrance and flavor.

How should I cut the bars cleanly?
Use a sharp knife and wipe it between cuts.

You can chill the bars for easier slicing.

Is the coconut topping required?
It adds texture and sweetness, but you can skip it or replace with powdered sugar after baking.

Final Thoughts

These Lemon Coconut Bars are the kind of treat that instantly brightens your day.

With their tropical twist and tangy-sweet contrast, they strike a perfect balance of refreshing and indulgent.

Make a batch for your next get-together—or just because—and enjoy a slice of sunshine in dessert form.