No Bake Lemon Coconut Bars

Whenever I crave something sweet yet refreshing, I whip up a batch of No Bake Lemon Coconut Bars. The bright citrus flavor of lemon combined with the rich, tropical taste of coconut makes for an irresistible treat. I remember the first time I made these bars; it was a hot summer day, and I wanted something cool and satisfying without turning on the oven. With just a handful of simple ingredients, I was able to create a delightful dessert that disappeared within minutes at our family gathering. It’s moments like these that remind me of the joy of sharing delicious food with loved ones.

What to Gather for No Bake Lemon Coconut Bars

Gathering the right ingredients is crucial for making the perfect No Bake Lemon Coconut Bars. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the texture and flavor that makes these bars so unique. The combination of nuts, dates, and coconut not only provides a delicious taste but also offers nutritional benefits.

• 1 cup raw almonds: A great source of healthy fats and protein. They add a nice crunch to the bars.
• 1 cup raw cashews: Creamy in texture and slightly sweet, they help bind the bars while adding richness.
• 10-12 medjool dates, pitted: These natural sweeteners add depth of flavor and help hold the bars together.
• 1 cup shredded coconut: Adds a tropical flair and chewy texture, enhancing the overall flavor.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: A hint of vanilla complements the other flavors beautifully.
• Juice of 1/2 of a lemon (about 1 tablespoon): The lemon juice brightens up the bars with a fresh tartness.
• Zest of one lemon: Provides an intense lemon flavor that elevates these bars.
• Pinch of sea salt, optional: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.

The Process for Making No Bake Lemon Coconut Bars

Making No Bake Lemon Coconut Bars is straightforward and fun! Start by gathering all your ingredients and a food processor. In just a few simple steps, you’ll be enjoying a refreshing treat. Let’s dive into the process!

1. First, take your food processor and add the raw cashews and raw almonds. Pulse them together until they reach a fine, grain-like consistency. It should look somewhat like a meal, which creates the perfect base for your bars.
2. Next, add the medjool dates, shredded coconut, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest into the processor. Keep blending until everything is well mixed and a sticky dough forms. If it seems a bit dry, don’t hesitate to add a splash more lemon juice or a teaspoon of water.
3. Once the mixture has come together, it’s time to prepare your baking dish. Line it with parchment paper, ensuring there’s some overhang for easy removal later. I love using a 6×8 inch Pyrex dish—it’s the perfect size!
4. Now, transfer the dough into the prepared dish. Using your hands or a spatula, press the mixture down firmly. It’s vital to really pack it in, so the bars hold their shape once chilled. If using a larger dish, remember to leave some thickness on one side for a perfect bite.
5. After pressing the mixture down, cover the dish with wrap or foil and pop it into the refrigerator. Let it chill for about 30 to 45 minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld together, and you’ll have a firmer texture.
6. Once chilled, grab your dish from the fridge and carefully lift the bars out using the parchment overhang. Place them on a cutting board, and use a sharp knife to cut them into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference.
7. Finally, serve these delicious bars immediately, or store them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for about 3 to 4 days or in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Things Worth Knowing About No Bake Lemon Coconut Bars

Recipe Notes about No Bake Lemon Coconut Bars

Here are some helpful tips to make the most out of your No Bake Lemon Coconut Bars.

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 to 4 days, or refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.
• Freezing: These bars freeze well! Keep them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just let them thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Variations: Feel free to swap in different nuts or add spices like cinnamon for an extra flavor kick.
• Serving Suggestion: Serve these bars with fresh fruit or a dollop of yogurt for a refreshing snack.
• Presentation: For an added touch, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the bars before serving.

Serve This No Bake Lemon Coconut Bars With

Pairing these delightful No Bake Lemon Coconut Bars with the right accompaniments can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some ideas to consider:

• Fresh Berries: Serve with a side of mixed berries like strawberries or blueberries for a refreshing contrast.
• Greek Yogurt: A dollop of creamy Greek yogurt adds a lovely richness and balances the sweetness.
• Tea or Coffee: These bars pair wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee, making them ideal for brunch or afternoon snacks.
• Picnic Treat: They make the perfect energy boost for picnics or road trips, providing a sweet and satisfying snack.
• Fruit Salad: Complement them with a fresh fruit salad for a colorful and nutritious meal.
• Ice Cream: For a decadent treat, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

FAQ

Conclusion

The No Bake Lemon Coconut Bars are a refreshing and easy treat that combines the bright flavors of lemon with the creamy texture of nuts and coconut. They’re perfect for any occasion and are sure to impress your friends and family. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—you won’t regret it! With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch that will not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also be a healthier alternative to store-bought snacks.

No Bake Lemon Coconut Bars

The ultimate refreshment on a hot day! These No Bake Lemon Coconut Bars are not only easy to make but also deliciously satisfying. With creamy cashews and tangy lemon, they offer the perfect balance of flavors. Ideal for summer gatherings or a quick snack, you won't want to miss making these!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 10 minutes mins

Course Desserts

Cuisine American

Servings 12 servings

Calories 180 kcal

Equipment

• Frying Pan
• Food Processor
• Mixing Bowl

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup raw almonds
• 1 cup raw cashews
• 10-12 medjool dates, pitted
• 1 cup shredded coconut
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 of a lemon Juice of about 1 tablespoon
• 1 zest of one lemon
• a pinch sea salt optional

Instructions

 

• In a food processor, mix cashews and almonds. Process until a fine grain-like consistency.
• Add in dates, coconut, vanilla, juice, and zest. Process until a dough forms. Scrape down the sides after a minute or so if necessary.
• Press into a pan lined with parchment paper firmly. I use a 6x8 inch Pyrex rectangular dish and it fits perfectly. If you only have an 8×8 or 9×9 pan, just don’t press fully to the edges on one side. You can use a bread pan too; they’ll be pretty thick. Just make sure you PRESS these hard into the pan.
• Chill for about 30 to 45 minutes and then cut into individual bars.

Notes

• If your dough seems a bit dry: Add a tsp more lemon juice or even water, one at a time. Then process again to see if it will come together.
• Medjool dates: Should be pretty moist. If they are really dry, you can soak them in warm water for 5 to 10 minutes before making these homemade energy bars. Just drain the water and pat them dry before adding them into the food processor.
• Storage: Store these bars in an airtight container at room temperature for about 3 to 4 days or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. You can freeze these coconut lemon bars. They will be stored in the freezer for about 3 months.

Keyword Easy Dessert Recipe, Healthy Snack, No Bake Lemon Coconut Bars, summer treat

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Meet Hanna Hart

I am obsessed with the “how” and “why” of cooking. It doesn’t matter if we are roasting a chicken or baking brownies; I am the one double-checking our measurements and cooking times. I love working on every type of cuisine and finding the absolute best method to get the results we want. I treat every recipe with the same level of care and dedication.