Coconut-Pecan Squares
Coconut-Pecan Squares are rich, chewy bars with toasted pecans and coconut, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and ideal for sharing at gatherings or tea times.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the butter, brown sugar, and flour to form a crumbly mixture.
- Press the mixture into an 8-inch square pan to form the crust.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 20 minutes until golden.
- Meanwhile, beat the eggs well and add the brown sugar, beating until thick.
- Toss the pecans and coconut with 2 tablespoons of flour, then fold into the egg mixture.
- Add vanilla and salt, then spread the topping evenly over the baked crust.
- Bake for an additional 20 minutes in the 350°F oven.
- Allow to cool, then sprinkle with confectioners sugar.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar in the topping. If you're out of pecans, walnuts or almonds can be excellent substitutes. Ensure your butter is softened for easier mixing. For a touch of tropical flair, add a bit of pineapple to the coconut mixture. Keep an eye on the squares while they bake to prevent over-browning.
Serving Suggestions
These Coconut-Pecan Squares are delightful on their own but pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. You might also enjoy them alongside a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon treat. For a twist, serve with a drizzle of Uncooked Frosting for added sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. If you want to enjoy the squares warm, reheat them in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through, to maintain their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Coconut-Pecan Squares contains roughly 446 calories, with 5g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (12% of the Daily Value), iron (11% of the Daily Value), and protein (10% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these squares ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare these Coconut-Pecan Squares a day in advance. Just ensure they are completely cool before storing them in an airtight container. This will help the flavors meld beautifully, making them even tastier when served.
What can I use instead of coconut?
If you prefer not to use coconut, you can omit it altogether or substitute it with an equal amount of chopped dried fruits, such as apricots or raisins, for added sweetness and texture in the squares.
Can I freeze the Coconut-Pecan Squares?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the squares tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).