French Coconut Pecan Bars
Decadent French Coconut Pecan Bars combine buttery crust, toasted oats, sweet coconut, and crunchy pecans for a rich, satisfying treat perfect for dessert or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and spray a 15 x 10 x 1-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray.
- Place melted butter in a large bowl. Reserve 3 tablespoons of the cake mix and set aside.
- Add remaining cake mix to the melted butter and blend well.
- Add the egg and mix until combined.
- Stir in the quick-cooking rolled oats.
- Press two-thirds of the cake mix mixture (about 2 1/2 cups) into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Spread the can of Pillsbury Creamy Supreme over the prepared crust.
- Sprinkle the reserved cake mix over the cream layer.
- Top with shredded coconut and chopped pecans as desired.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
- Allow to cool before cutting into bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, substitute the cake mix with a gluten-free baking mix. Adding a pinch of salt to the crust can enhance the sweetness. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the pecans or replace them with sunflower seeds.
Serving Suggestions
These French Coconut Pecan Bars make a delightful dessert on their own but can also be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for a perfect afternoon snack. They are also great for potlucks or as a sweet addition to brunch alongside Simple Sticky Buns.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or enjoy them cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of French Coconut Pecan Bars contains roughly 657 calories, with 9g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 48g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. It also contributes 6g 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 use a different flavor of cake mix?
Yes, you can experiment with different flavors such as chocolate or lemon cake mix to change the flavor profile of your bars. Each variation will give a unique taste, allowing for creative twists on the original recipe.
What can I use instead of coconut?
If you're not a fan of coconut, you can simply omit it and increase the amount of chopped pecans for added texture. Alternatively, you might use chopped dried fruits like apricots or cranberries for a different flavor and chewiness.
How thick should the crust be?
The crust should be about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick when pressed into the pan. This thickness helps create a sturdy base that can hold the creamy layer and toppings without falling apart when cut into bars.
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).