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M&M’S” Coconut Pecan Bars

M&m's" Coconut Pecan Bars recipe image
These M&M's Coconut Pecan Bars are the ultimate crowd-pleasing dessert, combining a buttery pecan crust with a rich, creamy coconut filling. The shortbread-like base provides a sturdy, satisfying crunch, while the topping offers a delightful contrast of chewy coconut, toasted nuts, and sweet chocolate. Perfect for potlucks, holiday parties, or simply satisfying a sweet tooth on a lazy afternoon, these bars hold together well and travel beautifully. The vibrant colors of the M&M's make them visually appealing, while the warm spices of the toasted pecans add depth to the sweet profile. They are easy to customize and always disappear quickly from the dessert table.
Cooking Method:
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Advanced
Servings: 12
Calories: 148.4
Dietary: Vegetarian
Description
These M&M's Coconut Pecan Bars are the ultimate crowd-pleasing dessert, combining a buttery pecan crust with a rich, creamy coconut filling. The shortbread-like base provides a sturdy, satisfying crunch, while the topping offers a delightful contrast of chewy coconut, toasted nuts, and sweet chocolate. Perfect for potlucks, holiday parties, or simply satisfying a sweet tooth on a lazy afternoon, these bars hold together well and travel beautifully. The vibrant colors of the M&M's make them visually appealing, while the warm spices of the toasted pecans add depth to the sweet profile. They are easy to customize and always disappear quickly from the dessert table.
Ingredients
  • 1/4 cups Granulated sugar; divided
  • 1/2 cups Plus 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; divided
  • 1/2 cups Finely chopped pecans; divided
  • 1/4 c butter; divided
  • large Eggs
  • tablespoons Vanilla extract
  • 2 oz "M&M's" Chocolate Mini Baking Bits; divided
  • cups Shredded coconut
Directions
  1. 1
    Preheat oven to 350&# 194;°F (177°C).
  2. 2
    Lightly grease a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking pan and set aside.
  3. 3
    In a large bowl, combine 3/4 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, and 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans.
  4. 4
    Add 1/4 cup melted butter to the dry ingredients and mix well until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  5. 5
    Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
  6. 6
    Bake the crust for 10 minutes or until set, then remove from oven and allow to cool slightly.
  7. 7
    In a mixing bowl, cream together 1/2 cup softened butter and 1/2 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  8. 8
    Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated.
  9. 9
    Blend in vanilla extract until combined.
  10. 10
    In a small bowl, toss 1 cup of M&M's Mini Baking Bits with 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour to prevent sinking.
  11. 11
    Stir the coated M&M's into the creamed butter mixture.
  12. 12
    Spread the batter evenly over the cooled crust.
  13. 13
    Combine the shredded coconut and remaining pecans, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the batter.
  14. 14
    Sprinkle the remaining 3/4 cup of M&M's Mini Baking Bits over the coconut and pecans, patting them down lightly.
  15. 15
    Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until the top is golden and the center is set.
  16. 16
    Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 12

Amount Per Serving
Calories 148.4kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 9.7g15%
Saturated Fat 4.7g24%
Cholesterol 7.8mg3%
Sodium 8.7mg1%
Total Carbohydrate 13.5g5%
Dietary Fiber 2.2g9%
Sugars 7.2g
Protein 2.0g4%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Storage: Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. Bring to room temperature before serving for best texture.

Ingredient Tip: The flour tossed with the M&M's helps keep them suspended in the batter so they don't sink to the bottom during baking.

Variation: You can substitute white chocolate chips or chopped butterscotch chips for the M&M's if you prefer a different flavor profile.

Preparation: Ensure the butter for the crust is melted, while the butter for the filling should be softened to room temperature for proper creaming.

Keywords: bars, dessert, coconut, pecans, chocolate, mmms, shortbread, potluck, baking, sweet, snack, holiday, treat, easy, crowdpleaser, crust, filling, toasted, buttery, chewy
Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/mms-coconut-pecan-bars/