If there’s one dessert that perfectly balances sweet, tart, buttery, and tropical, it’s these Easy Raspberry Coconut Bars with a Buttery Crust. With a melt-in-your-mouth shortbread-style base, a bright raspberry layer bursting with flavor, and a lightly toasted coconut topping, these bars feel bakery-worthy while remaining wonderfully simple to make at home.

This recipe was created for busy home bakers who want something impressive without complicated steps or specialty tools. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, holiday dessert table, potluck, or just a quiet afternoon treat, these bars deliver comfort and elegance in every bite.

Raspberry desserts have long been loved for their vibrant color and refreshing tartness, while coconut adds richness and texture. Combined with a classic buttery crust, these bars strike the perfect balance between indulgent and approachable.

Why You’ll Love These Raspberry Coconut Bars

These bars aren’t just delicious — they’re incredibly versatile and forgiving. Even beginner bakers can achieve perfect results on the first try.

Simple pantry ingredients
No mixer required
Bright, bakery-style presentation
Freezer-friendly and make-ahead approved
Perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors

The buttery crust provides a sturdy base, while the raspberry layer brings natural fruit flavor that cuts through the sweetness. The coconut topping adds texture and a lightly toasted aroma that elevates the entire dessert.

Ingredients

For the Buttery Crust:

All-purpose flour
Granulated sugar
Unsalted butter, cold and cubed
Salt
Vanilla extract

For the Raspberry Layer:

Raspberry preserves or jam
Fresh raspberries
Lemon juice
Cornstarch

For the Coconut Topping:

Sweetened shredded coconut
Eggs
Granulated sugar
Vanilla extract

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Press the crust mixture evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 12–15 minutes until lightly golden.
While the crust bakes, stir together raspberry preserves, fresh raspberries, lemon juice, and cornstarch until smooth.
Spread the raspberry mixture evenly over the warm crust.
In another bowl, whisk eggs, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Fold in shredded coconut.
Spoon the coconut mixture evenly over the raspberry layer.
Bake for 30–35 minutes until the coconut topping is lightly golden and set.
Allow bars to cool completely before slicing for clean layers.

Tips for Perfect Raspberry Coconut Bars

Use parchment paper: It ensures easy removal and clean cuts.
Let them cool fully: Cutting too early can cause layers to smear.
Toast coconut lightly: This adds extra depth of flavor.
Fresh or frozen raspberries: Both work well; thaw frozen berries first.

Variations to Try

Lemon Raspberry Coconut Bars: Add lemon zest to the raspberry layer.
Chocolate Drizzle: Finish with a white or dark chocolate drizzle.
Almond Coconut Bars: Swap vanilla for almond extract.
Low-Sugar Option: Use reduced-sugar preserves and unsweetened coconut.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these bars slightly chilled for clean slices or at room temperature for a softer bite. They pair beautifully with:

Hot coffee or espresso
Herbal tea
Vanilla ice cream
Whipped cream and fresh berries

They’re equally at home on a holiday dessert table or wrapped individually for lunchbox treats.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Freeze sliced bars for up to 2 months.
Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for 30 minutes.

Fun Fact: Why Raspberry and Coconut Work So Well

Raspberries bring natural acidity that balances rich, buttery desserts, while coconut adds fat and texture that mellow tart flavors. This pairing has roots in European fruit bars and tropical-inspired baking, making it a timeless combination that never feels outdated.

Final Thoughts

These Easy Raspberry Coconut Bars with a Buttery Crust are the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again. They’re reliable, beautiful, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re baking for guests or treating yourself, these bars deliver homemade comfort with bakery-level appeal.

Easy Raspberry Coconut Bars with a Buttery Crust

Tender buttery crust topped with bright raspberry filling and sweet coconut for an easy, bakery-style dessert bar.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 35

Total Time 55

Servings: 12 bars

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American, Autumn

Calories: 240

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes