Hey there, fellow foodies! Today I’m super excited to share my absolute favorite Florida-inspired treat that’ll make your afternoon sweet and refreshing. Let me tell you about my Sunshine State Orange-Coconut Dream Bars – they’re basically a vacation in your mouth!
Y’all, as someone who lives for creating amazing treats in the kitchen, I can’t tell you how many times my friends have begged me for this recipe. It perfectly captures that laid-back Florida vibe with a citrusy punch that’ll make your taste buds dance!
Here’s what you’ll need (trust me, it’s worth the trip to the store):
– 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/2 cup melted butter
– 3 fresh Florida oranges
– 1 cup shredded coconut
– 1 can sweetened condensed milk
– 4 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Pinch of sea salt
(Quick pause here! If you’re loving this recipe already, make sure to follow me on Newsbreak for more mouthwatering treats like this one! 😘)
Now, let’s get cooking, gorgeous!
1. Preheat that oven to 350°F (I know, waiting is the worst part!)
2. Mix those graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until it looks like wet sand. Press it into a 9×13 pan.
3. Zest two oranges and juice all three (save some zest for garnish if you’re feeling fancy!)
4. In a bowl, beat cream cheese until fluffy (kinda like clouds in paradise!)
5. Add condensed milk, orange juice, zest, and vanilla. Mix until smooth.
6. Fold in coconut (don’t be shy with it!)
7. Pour over crust and bake for 25-30 minutes until edges are slightly golden.
Let it cool completely – I know it’s tempting to dig in right away (believe me, I’ve burned my tongue more times than I care to admit 😅), but patience is key here!
The result? A perfectly balanced treat that’s creamy, citrusy, and just the right amount of sweet. It’s like a sunny day at the beach wrapped up in a dessert bar!
Y’all, I can’t even tell you how many pool parties and backyard BBQs these bars have stolen the show at. They’re seriously that good!
Before you run off to make these incredible bars (which I know you’re dying to do!), don’t forget to follow me on Newsbreak for more amazing recipes just like this one! I’m always sharing new Florida-inspired dishes that’ll make your kitchen the most popular spot in town.
And honey, please drop a comment below! I’d love to hear how these turned out for you, or if you added your own special twist. Maybe you have a secret ingredient that could make these even more amazing? (Though honestly, they’re pretty perfect as is, if I do say so myself! 💁♀️)
Until next time, keep cooking and stay fabulous! XOXO
P.S. If your bars disappear mysteriously fast, don’t say I didn’t warn you! They’re that addictive! 😉
