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The first burst of zesty lime hits your palate, perfectly balanced by the creamy richness of coconut—this is what happiness tastes like! When I decided to whip up these Frozen Coconut Lime Bars, I was seeking a refreshing retreat from the chaos of everyday life. The blend of sweetened condensed milk and coconut milk transforms into a luscious filling that practically sings of summer. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply indulge in a treat that feels like a mini-vacation at home, these bars are the answer.

Perfectly chilled and oh-so-easy to make, they’re an ideal dessert for sunny afternoons or BBQ gatherings. With a crumbly graham cracker crust and a velvety coconut-lime layer, this delightful combo is sure to become a family favorite. Join me as we dive into a recipe that brings a little sunshine into your kitchen!

Why are Frozen Coconut Lime Bars irresistible?

Refreshing, each bite offers a cool escape, making them perfect for hot days. Easy to make, you don’t need advanced cooking skills—ideal for busy home chefs! Unique flavor combo of tangy lime and rich coconut creates a taste sensation you won’t forget. Crowd-pleaser, they’re sure to impress at any gathering—just watch them disappear! For more delightful treats, don’t miss out on my other summer dessert recipes.

Frozen Coconut Lime Bars Ingredients

Discover the perfect blend of flavors in these luscious bars!

For the Crust

Graham cracker crumbs – add a buttery crunch that forms the base of these bars.
Unsweetened shredded coconut – enhances the coconut flavor while providing texture.
Unsalted butter – binds the crust together for a rich, creamy base.

For the Filling

Sweetened condensed milk – creates a luscious, sweet layer that balances the tartness of lime.
Coconut milk – adds a creamy consistency and rich coconut essence.
Zest of 2 limes – infuses brightness and aroma into the filling.
Juice of 2 limes – brings the refreshing tartness that defines these Frozen Coconut Lime Bars.
Granulated sugar – sweetens without overwhelming the citrus flavor.
Pinch of salt – enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.

For the Topping

Heavy whipping cream – whipped to soft peaks for a light, airy texture that complements the filling.
Lime slices and toasted coconut – optional but perfect for a delightful garnish that adds a touch of elegance.

Indulging in homemade dessert has never been easier or more delicious!

How to Make Frozen Coconut Lime Bars

Combine In a medium mixing bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and shredded coconut together. Then, pour in the melted butter, blending until the mixture is well combined and crumbly, creating a delicious crust.
Press Next, firmly press the crust mixture into the bottom of an 8×8 inch baking dish to form an even layer. Bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until golden. Allow it to cool.
Whisk In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, coconut milk, lime zest, lime juice, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt until smooth and harmonious, creating a rich filling for your bars.
Whip In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form, which should take about 3-5 minutes. This will add a delightful lightness to the filling.
Fold Gently fold the whipped cream into the coconut lime mixture until it’s fully integrated and smooth, ensuring every bite is fluffy and creamy with a burst of lime.
Pour Carefully pour the coconut lime filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Use a spatula to smooth out the top, making it picture-perfect and ready for the freezer.
Cover Cover the baking dish securely with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the freezer. Chill for at least 4 hours or until it’s fully set, ensuring that all flavors meld beautifully.
Soften Once set, remove the bars from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes to soften slightly. This makes slicing them easier and enhances the creamy texture.
Slice Cut the chilled bars into squares and garnish with lime slices and toasted coconut if desired, adding a lovely touch of elegance before serving.
Serve Finally, serve these refreshing bars chilled, and enjoy the delightful combination of coconut and lime flavors with family and friends!

Optional: Top each bar with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgence.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Frozen Coconut Lime Bars are perfect for busy weeknights and can easily be prepped in advance! You can make the graham cracker crust up to 3 days ahead; just store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Additionally, the coconut lime filling can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before assembly—this helps the flavors meld beautifully. For best results, cover the mixture tightly to prevent it from absorbing any odors. When you’re ready to serve, simply pour the filling over the crust, freeze for at least 4 hours, and enjoy a refreshing treat that saves you time and effort!

Frozen Coconut Lime Bars Variations

Feel free to get creative and make these bars uniquely yours with some tantalizing variations!

Dairy-Free: Substitute full-fat coconut cream for heavy cream, and use coconut milk for a rich, dairy-free delight.
Gluten-Free: Swap graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookie crumbs to keep the crust delicious and gluten-friendly.
Extra Citrus: Add the zest and juice of an orange along with the lime for a vibrant citrus twist that brightens every bite.
Minty Fresh: Fold in finely chopped fresh mint leaves to the filling for a refreshing, herbal lift that complements the citrus.

For those who love a bit of crunch:

Nutty Addition: Sprinkle chopped almonds or walnuts into the crust for a delightful crunch, enhancing both flavor and texture.

If you’re looking to spice things up:

Chili Chocolate Drizzle: Top each bar with a drizzle of melted chocolate mixed with a pinch of chili powder for a surprising, sweet-heat contrast.

And for a tropical twist:

Pineapple Bliss: Blend in finely crushed pineapple into the filling for an exotic flavor that complements the coconut and lime perfectly.

These variations not only enrich the original recipe but also invite you to explore different flavor landscapes, all while crafting a dish that’s uniquely yours!

How to Store and Freeze Frozen Coconut Lime Bars

Fridge: Store any leftover Frozen Coconut Lime Bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They will remain refreshing and delicious for a quick treat.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bars in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating: These bars are best served cold; however, if they’ve softened from sitting out, place them back in the freezer for about 30 minutes to regain their chill.

Serving Suggestions: Garnish with fresh lime slices and toasted coconut right before serving for an eye-catching presentation and added flavor!

Tips for the Best Frozen Coconut Lime Bars

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Make sure to use fresh limes for the zest and juice; it elevates the flavor of your Frozen Coconut Lime Bars significantly.

• Chill the Cream: For easier whipping, chill your bowl and beaters before whipping the heavy cream. This will help achieve the perfect fluffy texture.

• Press Firmly: When forming the crust, ensure you press the graham cracker mixture firmly. A well-compacted crust prevents crumbling when slicing the bars later.

• Avoid Overmixing: When folding the whipped cream into the coconut lime mixture, do so gently to preserve the airy texture of the filling for a delightful lightness.

• Adjust Sweetness: Taste the filling before pouring it into the crust; adjust the sugar if you prefer it sweeter or if the limes are particularly tart.

• Slice with Warm Knife: For clean cuts, run a sharp knife under hot water before slicing the bars, ensuring perfect squares every time.

What to Serve with Frozen Coconut Lime Bars?

These delightful bars are not just a treat on their own; they shine even brighter when paired with complementary dishes and refreshing beverages.

Tropical Fruit Salad: A bright mix of mango, pineapple, and kiwi adds vibrant colors and juicy freshness, enhancing the tropical vibe of the bars.
Mojito Mocktail: This refreshing drink, with mint and lime, perfectly mirrors the flavors of the dessert, making it a delightful pairing for summer fiestas.
Coconut Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of this airy topping on each bar for extra creaminess and flavor, elevating your dessert experience effortlessly.
Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: The rich chocolate creates a beautiful contrast to the tangy lime, making your dessert table awash with flavor and visual appeal.
Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Lightly seasoned and grilled, these savory bites balance the sweetness of the bars, providing a delicious surf-and-turf experience.
Lemon Sorbet: A scoop of tangy sorbet offers a refreshing contrast, cleansing the palate between each sweet, creamy bite.
Coconut Water: This hydrating drink, with its subtle sweetness, is the perfect thirst-quencher, celebrating the coconut theme of the bars.
Key Lime Pie Bites: Mini, zesty, and creamy, these bites will resonate with the same flavors, ensuring a deliciously cohesive dessert spread for any gathering.

Frozen Coconut Lime Bars Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my limes are ripe?
Absolutely! Look for limes that are slightly soft when squeezed, with a vibrant green color and thin skin. Avoid limes with dark spots or wrinkles, as these indicate overripeness. Fresh limes will provide the best juice and zest for your Frozen Coconut Lime Bars.

How should I store leftover Frozen Coconut Lime Bars?
Very! Refrigerate any leftover bars in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for whenever a sweet craving strikes. Just remember to separate the layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking!

Can I freeze my Frozen Coconut Lime Bars?
Of course! You can freeze the bars for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container. To serve, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight for a deliciously cool treat ready to enjoy.

What if my whipped cream doesn’t hold its shape?
No worries! If your whipped cream hasn’t reached stiff peaks, it might need more whipping—keep mixing for another minute or two. If it’s too thin, you can add a teaspoon of powdered sugar to help stabilize it. Remember to gently fold the whipped cream into the filling, as overmixing can deflate the airiness.

Are these bars safe for my pet?
Great question! While limes aren’t toxic to dogs in small quantities, it’s best to avoid giving them any servings of Frozen Coconut Lime Bars since they contain sugar and dairy, which can upset their stomach. Always save these delicious bars for your family and friends!

How can I make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make Frozen Coconut Lime Bars gluten-free, simply substitute the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free crumbs or ground almonds. This way, you can enjoy the same amazing flavor without any worries!