Mango Coconut Oat Shortbread Bars

Sweet mango and coconut unite in these delightful Mango Coconut Oat Shortbread Bars, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply craving something sweet, these bars offer a vibrant tropical flavor wrapped in a buttery oat crust. Their chewy texture and bright taste will surely impress family and friends alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have these bars ready in no time.
• Tropical Flavor: The combination of mango and coconut brings a refreshing twist that brightens any dessert table.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect as a snack, dessert, or even a light breakfast option that everyone will enjoy.
• Make Ahead: These bars can be prepared ahead of time, making them ideal for parties or gatherings.
• Garnish Options: Dust with confectioner’s sugar or serve with fresh fruit for an extra touch!

Tools and Preparation

Preparing Mango Coconut Oat Shortbread Bars requires just a few essential tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor or mixing bowl
• 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking dish
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Makes mixing the crust ingredients quick and easy for even texture.
• Baking dish: An 8×8-inch pan is perfect for achieving the right thickness for your bars.
• Parchment paper: Ensures easy removal of the bars from the pan without sticking.

Ingredients

Sweet mango and coconut atop a buttery oat crust make for a vibrant, chewy bar with a tropical twist.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup (90 g) rolled oats
– ½ cup (60 g) all-purpose flour
– ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– ⅓ cup (70 g) light brown sugar, packed
– ¼ cup (20 g) unsweetened shredded coconut
– ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Pinch of salt
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
– 1 cup mango purée (about 2 cups cubed fresh mango, blended)
– ¼ cup (60 ml) fresh lime juice
– 6 tablespoons (50 g) all-purpose flour, sifted
– Confectioner’s sugar for garnish (optional)

How to Make Mango Coconut Oat Shortbread Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing it to hang over the edges for easy removal.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

In a food processor or mixing bowl:
1. Combine oats, flour, butter, brown sugar, shredded coconut, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Pulse or mix until crumbly yet cohesive when pressed.
3. Press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan.

Step 3: Bake the Crust

Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from oven and poke holes all over the top with a fork. Let it cool slightly.

Step 4: Make the Filling

In a bowl:
1. Whisk together eggs and granulated sugar until smooth.
2. Fold in mango purée, lime juice, and sifted flour until just combined.

Step 5: Combine Filling and Crust

Pour the filling over the warm crust. Bake for an additional 32–34 minutes, or until edges are set but center still jiggles slightly to avoid over-baking.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let the bars cool completely. Refrigerate for at least two hours to set fully. Lift bars out using parchment paper; dust with confectioner’s sugar if desired. Cut into squares before serving.

How to Serve Mango Coconut Oat Shortbread Bars

These delightful Mango Coconut Oat Shortbread Bars are perfect for any occasion. Their tropical flavors and chewy texture make them a refreshing treat. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.

Serve with Fresh Fruit

• Offer a side of sliced fresh mango or berries to enhance the tropical flavor profile.

Pair with Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream adds a creamy contrast to the chewy bars, making each bite even more indulgent.

Enjoy with Ice Cream

• Serve these bars warm with a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream for a deliciously decadent dessert.

Drizzle with Lime Glaze

• A simple glaze made from powdered sugar and lime juice adds an extra tangy sweetness that complements the bars perfectly.

Accompany with Herbal Tea

• Pair these bars with a calming herbal tea, such as chamomile or mint, for a relaxing afternoon treat.

How to Perfect Mango Coconut Oat Shortbread Bars

Creating the perfect Mango Coconut Oat Shortbread Bars requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your bars turn out just right.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh mango and quality butter will significantly enhance the flavor and texture of your bars.
• Don’t skip chilling: Refrigerating the bars after baking helps them set properly, making them easier to cut.
• Check oven temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature for even baking.
• Avoid over-mixing: When combining ingredients, mix just until combined to maintain a tender texture.
• Customize toppings: Feel free to add additional toppings like toasted coconut or chopped nuts for added flavor and crunch.

Best Side Dishes for Mango Coconut Oat Shortbread Bars

These Mango Coconut Oat Shortbread Bars can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their unique flavors. Consider serving them alongside one of these delicious options:

1. Tropical Fruit Salad: A mix of pineapple, kiwi, and papaya adds freshness and brightens up the dessert table.
2. Coconut Chia Pudding: This creamy pudding pairs well with the flavors in the bars while adding extra nutrition.
3. Mango Sorbet: A refreshing sorbet provides a cool contrast and amplifies the mango notes in the bars.
4. Lime Zest Yogurt: Creamy yogurt with lime zest offers a tangy complement that enhances the citrus flavor in the bars.
5. Grilled Pineapple Slices: The caramelized sugar from grilling brings out pineapple’s natural sweetness, which pairs beautifully with the bars.
6. Almond Biscotti: These crunchy cookies provide a delightful texture contrast when enjoyed alongside soft shortbread bars.
7. Minted Cucumber Salad: A light salad made with cucumber and mint can cleanse the palate between bites of rich dessert.
8. Spiced Nuts: Roasted spiced nuts offer an unexpected crunch that balances the chewy texture of the shortbread bars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Mango Coconut Oat Shortbread Bars even better.

• Using stale ingredients: Always check the freshness of your oats, flour, and baking supplies. Stale ingredients can affect flavor and texture.
• Not cooling the crust: Allow the crust to cool slightly before adding the filling. This helps prevent the layers from mixing together.
• Overbaking the filling: Keep an eye on the bars while they bake. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture instead of a chewy delight.
• Skipping refrigeration: Refrigerating the bars for at least 2 hours is essential for setting. Skipping this step can result in a mushy consistency.
• Ignoring measurements: Accurate measurements are key. Using too much or too little of an ingredient can alter the texture and taste of your bars.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Mango Coconut Oat Shortbread Bars in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Mango Coconut Oat Shortbread Bars

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing quality.

Reheating Mango Coconut Oat Shortbread Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place bars on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual bars for 15-20 seconds on medium power until soft but not hot.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for about 5 minutes until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Mango Coconut Oat Shortbread Bars.

How do I make Mango Coconut Oat Shortbread Bars vegan?

You can substitute unsalted butter with plant-based butter and use flaxseed eggs instead of regular eggs.

Can I use other fruits in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can replace mango with other fruits like peaches or berries, adjusting sweetness as needed.

What is the best way to serve Mango Coconut Oat Shortbread Bars?

These bars are delightful served chilled, topped with whipped coconut cream or fresh fruit for extra flavor.

How can I customize my Mango Coconut Oat Shortbread Bars?

Add nuts like walnuts or almonds, or include chocolate chips to enhance their flavor and texture.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend, ensuring all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Final Thoughts

Mango Coconut Oat Shortbread Bars are not only delicious but also versatile. Their chewy texture paired with tropical flavors makes them irresistible. Feel free to experiment with different fruits or toppings to customize this treat to your liking!