Orange Coconut Cream Bars
Deliciously sweet orange coconut cream bars with a buttery crumb, bright citrus zing and tropical coconut crunch—perfect for quick dessert cravings or brunch treats for family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375° F. Lightly grease a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking pan and set aside.
- Combine oats, baking bits, coconut, and butter in a bowl. Mix until crumbly.
- In a separate bowl whisk condensed milk, egg, orange zest, and yellow cake until smooth.
- Fold the wet mixture into the crumbly dry mixture until well combined.
- Press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown and set.
- Allow to cool completely before cutting into bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using full-fat coconut milk instead of condensed milk. If you want a gluten-free option, substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free blend. Ensure that the oats are certified gluten-free if needed. Mixing in some chopped nuts can add texture, and you could also use shredded orange peel for an extra burst of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These Orange Coconut Cream Bars make a great addition to a brunch spread or picnic. They pair beautifully with a cup of herbal tea or a refreshing glass of lemonade. For a special dessert, serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside some fresh fruit. They also make an excellent snack for gatherings or as a sweet treat during the day.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cooled 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, warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, just enough to soften without melting. This will help retain their delightful texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orange Coconut Cream Bars contains roughly 41 calories, with 1g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 2g 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 fresh oranges instead of orange zest?
Yes, you can use fresh orange juice in place of orange zest, but keep in mind that it may change the texture slightly. Use about 2 tablespoons of fresh juice to maintain the flavor. However, zest gives a more concentrated flavor, so if you prefer a stronger orange taste, stick with zest.
Can I freeze these bars?
Absolutely! These bars freeze well. Once they are completely cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
What can I substitute for oats in this recipe?
If you need a substitute for oats, you can use crushed graham crackers or ground almonds for a different texture. Keep in mind that this will alter the flavor slightly, but it can still yield delicious results. For a nut-free option, consider using rice cereal to maintain that crumbly crust.
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).