Macaroon Bar
Chewy and nutty macaroon bars feature coconut, pecans, and a rich crust, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and sharing at gatherings or as a decadent treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix devil's food cake mix, 1/2 cup softened margarine, and egg to make the crust.
- Press the mixture into a greased 13 x 9-inch pan.
- In a separate bowl, mix condensed milk, vanilla, and egg until smooth.
- Stir in 1 cup coconut and pecans.
- Pour the milk mixture over the crust in the pan.
- Sprinkle with remaining coconut on top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 35 minutes.
- Cool completely and cut into bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt to the crust mixture. If you don't have margarine, unsalted butter can be used as a substitute. To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free cake mix. You can also experiment with different nuts like walnuts or almonds instead of pecans. For added texture, try incorporating mini chocolate chips into the coconut mixture.
Serving Suggestions
These macaroon bars are delicious on their own but can be enhanced with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for a decadent dessert. They pair beautifully with coffee or tea, making them a great addition to a brunch spread or dessert table. For a fun twist, serve them alongside Mini Cheesecake Tarts for a delightful dessert variety.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover macaroon bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, simply place a bar in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will soften the chocolate and give it a nice texture, making it even more enjoyable.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroon Bar contains roughly 46 calories, with 0g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 4g fat.
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 type of cake mix for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any flavor of cake mix you prefer, but keep in mind that flavors like chocolate or red velvet will alter the overall taste of the bars. Vanilla or yellow cake mixes can create a lighter flavor profile that complements the coconut well.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare these macaroon bars a day in advance. Just make sure to store them properly in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They often taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Is there a vegan option for this recipe?
To make this recipe vegan, substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use a plant-based margarine. Also, ensure that the cake mix is dairy-free. This way, you can enjoy a delicious vegan version of these macaroon 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).