Coconut Cream Pie Bars—Buttery, Creamy, and Tropical Bliss in Every Bite

Coconut cream pie bars are everything you love about the classic pie—creamy coconut custard, fluffy whipped topping, and a buttery crust—but in easy-to-slice bar form. No rolling, no fuss, just pure coconut bliss layered in a baking pan. The crust is golden and crisp, the filling is luxuriously smooth and loaded with sweet shredded coconut, and the whipped topping gives a soft, airy finish that’s irresistible. These bars are perfect for parties, potlucks, or casual desserts when you want something impressive without the pressure of a full pie. They’re tropical, sweet, and slice beautifully into handheld squares that’ll disappear fast.

Why These Coconut Cream Pie Bars Are So Irresistible

They’re ultra creamy without being too rich, with a balanced sweetness that comes from both coconut milk and shredded coconut. The custard sets up just firm enough to slice cleanly, while staying silky and soft when you bite into it. And that shortbread-style crust? Buttery, tender, and the perfect base for all that luscious filling. They’re simple to make but feel like a bakery treat, and the texture is spot on—cool, smooth, and full of coconut flavor in every bite.

Ingredients

For the Crust

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• ¼ cup powdered sugar
• Pinch of salt

For the Coconut Cream Filling

• 1 (13.5 oz) can full-fat coconut milk
• 1½ cups whole milk
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• ¼ tsp salt
• 4 large egg yolks
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp coconut extract
• 1½ cups sweetened shredded coconut

For the Whipped Topping

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• Toasted coconut for topping (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8 or 9×9 baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
4. Bake crust for 18–20 minutes or until lightly golden. Let cool completely.
5. For the filling, whisk coconut milk, whole milk, sugar, and salt in a saucepan over medium heat.
6. In a small bowl, whisk egg yolks and cornstarch until smooth.
7. Once the milk mixture is hot (but not boiling), slowly whisk about ½ cup into the egg yolk mixture to temper.
8. Return everything to the pot and whisk constantly over medium heat until thickened, about 5–8 minutes.
9. Remove from heat and stir in butter, vanilla, coconut extract, and shredded coconut.
10. Pour the filling over the cooled crust and spread evenly.
11. Let cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.
12. Beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form.
13. Spread whipped cream over chilled filling and sprinkle with toasted coconut if desired.
14. Chill an additional 30 minutes before slicing into bars.

Tips for the Best Coconut Cream Pie Bars

Use full-fat coconut milk for the richest flavor and creamiest filling. Stir the custard constantly while cooking to prevent lumps. Let the filling fully chill and set before slicing to get clean bars. Toast your coconut topping for added crunch and color.

Variations

Use a graham cracker crust instead of shortbread. Add a layer of crushed pineapple to the filling for a tropical punch. Fold in white chocolate chips for a twist. Make it dairy-free by swapping the whole milk and whipped cream with plant-based options.

Storage

Store bars covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Best served chilled. Not recommended for freezing once assembled, but crust and custard can be prepped separately and frozen before topping.

Final Thoughts

Coconut cream pie bars are the kind of dessert that tastes like a vacation—cool, creamy, and just the right amount of indulgent. They’re easy to make, easy to slice, and even easier to fall in love with. Whether you’re serving them for a spring brunch, a summer potluck, or just to treat yourself on a Tuesday, these bars bring a touch of tropical joy with every bite.

Stick around—every visit tastes better than the last at The Buttered Bliss.