Meyer Lemon Bars with Coconut

Name: Meyer Lemon Bars with Coconut
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 16 bars
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 3 large eggs; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup fresh Meyer lemon juice; Zest of 2 Meyer lemons; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut for topping

Highlighted under: Sweet Bakes

A delightful twist on classic lemon bars, these Meyer Lemon Bars with Coconut are tangy, sweet, and packed with a tropical flair.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-20T09:12:43.943Z

These Meyer Lemon Bars with Coconut are a perfect balance of tangy citrus and sweet coconut, making them a delightful dessert for any occasion. The buttery crust combined with a rich lemon filling creates a melt-in-your-mouth experience that will impress your guests.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright and zesty Meyer lemon flavor combined with the sweetness of coconut
Buttery crust that perfectly complements the tangy filling
Simple to make and perfect for sharing at gatherings or celebrations

      

The Charm of Meyer Lemons

Meyer lemons are a special variety that boasts a unique sweetness compared to regular lemons. Their thin, smooth skin is a vibrant yellow-orange, and they have a fragrant aroma that adds an inviting touch to any dish. The flavor of Meyer lemons is less acidic, making them perfect for desserts like these lemon bars. They lend a delightful balance of tartness and sweetness, elevating the traditional lemon bar experience into something truly extraordinary.

Incorporating Meyer lemons into your baking not only adds a distinct flavor but also provides an eye-catching presentation. Their bright color and citrusy scent will have your friends and family eagerly anticipating the first bite. This recipe celebrates the natural sweetness and aromatic qualities of Meyer lemons, ensuring each bar is a testament to this exceptional fruit.

Coconut's Tropical Touch

Coconut is a versatile ingredient that complements a variety of flavors, and in this recipe, it beautifully enhances the tropical vibe of the Meyer lemons. The unsweetened shredded coconut adds both texture and a subtle sweetness, making each bite a delight. Its chewy consistency contrasts perfectly with the creamy filling, creating a satisfying experience for your taste buds.

Beyond its flavor, coconut is also packed with nutrients. It contains healthy fats, fiber, and essential minerals, making it a great addition to your diet in moderation. By incorporating coconut into these Meyer lemon bars, you not only enhance the flavor profile but also add a nutritious element to your dessert.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These Meyer Lemon Bars with Coconut are ideal for a variety of occasions. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue, celebrating a birthday, or just looking for a sweet treat to brighten your day, these bars fit the bill. Their vibrant flavor and beautiful presentation make them a showstopper, sure to impress your guests.

Additionally, these lemon bars are easy to prepare, making them a fantastic choice for both novice and experienced bakers. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a batch in no time. The bars also store well, making them perfect for meal prep or as a sweet surprise for later enjoyment.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious Meyer Lemon Bars with Coconut:

Crust

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/4 teaspoon salt

Filling

3 large eggs
1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup fresh Meyer lemon juice
Zest of 2 Meyer lemons
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut for topping

Make sure to use fresh Meyer lemons for the best flavor in your bars!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Meyer Lemon Bars with Coconut:

Prepare the crust

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine flour, shredded coconut, powdered sugar, softened butter, and salt. Mix until crumbly. Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9x9-inch baking pan.

Bake for 15 minutes or until lightly golden.

Make the filling

In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and granulated sugar until well combined. Add in the fresh Meyer lemon juice, lemon zest, flour, and baking powder. Mix until smooth.

Combine and bake

Pour the filling over the pre-baked crust and sprinkle with shredded coconut. Bake for an additional 20 minutes or until the filling is set. Allow to cool completely before slicing.

Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar if desired, and enjoy your delicious Meyer Lemon Bars!

Tips for Perfect Bars

To achieve the best results with your Meyer Lemon Bars, it's important to measure your ingredients accurately. Using a kitchen scale can help ensure precision, especially for the flour and sugar. Additionally, make sure your butter is softened to room temperature; this will help create a smooth crust that holds together well.

Allowing the bars to cool completely before slicing is crucial. This step helps the filling set properly, resulting in neat, clean edges. If you're in a hurry, you can place the pan in the refrigerator to speed up the cooling process, but be patient for the best results!

Serving Suggestions

These Meyer Lemon Bars are delicious on their own, but you can elevate the experience with a few simple serving suggestions. A dusting of powdered sugar on top adds a touch of sweetness and visual appeal. For an extra twist, consider drizzling a bit of melted dark chocolate over the bars for a delightful contrast with the citrus.

Pairing these bars with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can create a decadent dessert experience. The creamy elements complement the tangy filling beautifully, making each bite a celebration of flavors.

Storage and Freshness

To keep your Meyer Lemon Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay delicious for up to a week, allowing you to enjoy them over several days. If you want to prepare them in advance, consider freezing them; wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can last for up to three months in the freezer.

When you're ready to enjoy a frozen bar, simply thaw it in the refrigerator for a few hours or let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This way, you can have a tangy treat ready whenever the craving strikes!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular lemons instead of Meyer lemons?

Yes, you can use regular lemons, but the flavor will be more tart.

→ How do I store leftover lemon bars?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these bars?

Yes, they freeze well! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container.

→ What can I serve with Meyer Lemon Bars?

They pair wonderfully with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream.