Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 1 1/2 cups
- Unsalted butter (cold, cubed): 1/2 cup (1 stick)
- Granulated sugar: 1/4 cup
- Sweetened condensed milk: 1 (14-ounce) can
- Sweetened shredded coconut: 3 cups
- Powdered sugar (for frosting): 1 1/2 cups
- Fresh lime juice: 3 tablespoons
- Lime zest (from 2 limes): 1 tablespoon
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, cut the cold butter into the flour and granulated sugar until crumbly. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking pan lined with parchment paper. Bake the crust for 10 to 12 minutes until lightly golden.
- Step 2: While the crust is baking, prepare the filling by mixing the sweetened condensed milk, shredded coconut, and half of the lime zest in a bowl until fully combined.
- Step 3: Remove the par-baked crust from the oven and pour the coconut mixture evenly over the top. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20 to 25 minutes, or until the coconut topping is set and the edges are golden brown.
- Step 4: Allow the bars to cool completely to room temperature (about 1 to 2 hours). While cooling, prepare the frosting by whisking the powdered sugar, fresh lime juice, and remaining lime zest in a small bowl until smooth and thick.
- Step 5: Spread the lime frosting evenly over the cooled bars. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the frosting to set before lifting the bars out of the pan and cutting them into squares for serving.
Notes
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days; for best flavor, let them warm up slightly at room temperature before enjoying.
- Do not attempt to reheat these frosted bars; if refrigerated, allowing them to rest for 15 minutes will soften the crust and enhance the vibrant lime flavor.
- For a clean presentation, ensure the bars are thoroughly chilled before slicing them with a sharp knife wiped clean after every cut.
- Use a flat-bottomed measuring cup or glass to firmly pack the shortbread crust into the pan corners, which prevents the heavy condensed milk filling from leaking underneath during the bake.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American