It’s pie month, so I made you some Coconut Cream Pie Bars!

Coconut Cream Pie Bars
Coconut Cream Pie Bars

5 from 1 reviews
Coconut Cream Pie Bars
 
Prep time
Cook time
Total time
 
THESE ARE SO AMAZING. MAKE THEM NOW.
Author:
Serves: 12-16
Ingredients
Crust Ingredients:
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) butter
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
Coconut Cream Filling Ingredients:
  • 3 cups half-and-half
  • 3 cups coconut milk
  • 4 eggs
  • 1 1/2 cups white sugar
  • 2/3 cup cornstarch
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/2 cup flaked coconut
  • 1/2 teaspoon coconut extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Whipped Cream Topping Ingredients:
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 1 tablespoon cold water (for stabilizing)
  • 1 teaspoon gelatin (for stabilizing)
  • 3-4 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1 cup coconut, for toasting
Instructions
  1. Make shortbread crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Prepare a 9 x 13 in. baking dish with a foil sling (I use one long sheet across the length of my dish, and two overlapping short sheets across the width of my dish — just arrange it so that it has some overlap and overhang to help you pull the bars out after they’re finished). Cut the butter into the flour and powdered sugar and press into the baking dish (I used a food processor to cut the fat into the flour — about 6-10 pulses — and then the bottom of a glass to press the mixture into the pan). Bake 18-20 minutes or until light brown. Set on a wire rack.
  2. Toast coconut for the topping: Spread about 1 cup of the coconut flakes out on a baking sheet and bake in the oven along with your shortbread crust for 3-6 minutes, stirring every minute or so, until the coconut is golden brown. Spread it out on a plate to cool completely.
  3. Make coconut cream filling: Combine the half-and-half, coconut milk, eggs, sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a large saucepan and bring it to a boil over medium-low heat, whisking constantly until it’s thick and bubbling (this can take anywhere from 15-30 minutes. Just do it. It’s worth it.) Add coconut and vanilla extracts and the 1 1/2 cups of untoasted coconut and stir. Pour this filling over your cooled crust, letting it cool for a bit on the counter before sticking the whole thing in the fridge to chill until firm, about 2 to 4 hours.
  4. Make whipped cream topping: Put 1 tablespoon cold water in a small bowl and sprinkle the gelatin evenly over the top. Let it soften for 2 minutes before microwaving it for 30 seconds and whisking to dissolve the gelatin. Using a chilled bowl and beater, whisk the 2 cups of heavy cream and powdered sugar together until the cream forms stiff peaks, stopping to add gelatin mixture about halfway through. Dollop the cream over your bars and gently spread it around. Sprinkle on toasted coconut. Chill until ready to serve to let the whipped cream set up. Use the sling to pull the bars out of the dish, slice with a sharp knife, and enjoy!

 

164 Comments on Coconut Cream Pie Bars

  1. lynn @ the actor's diet
    March 1, 2014 at 10:46 pm (10 years ago)

    I wanted a turtle so badly my entire childhood after reading Judy Blume’s “Tales of a 4th grade Nothing.” I finally bought one for myself in college, my freshman year (they were illegal in NJ where I grew up). Unfortunately, a prefrosh wound up killing my turtle (long story) but the 9 months I had her were glorious – though difficult! Scrubbing your hands before/after everything, cleaning that aquarium, etc. are too much for a busy college student.

    Reply
  2. Fran@fransfavs.com
    March 1, 2014 at 10:52 pm (10 years ago)

    Julie, I can’t even begin to tell you how much I enjoyed reading this post. I am still smiling and expect I will for the remainder of the evening. Your coconut cream pie bars do, indeed, look amazing. Didn’t realize that I could smile and drool at the same time!

    Reply
  3. Kate c
    March 1, 2014 at 10:54 pm (10 years ago)

    Oh my gosh, that is the most adorable story EVER!!! You should do a survey of how many readers actually googled turtle penises…as I am going to do out of basic curiosity after typing this. My brother went through a similar animal rescue situation with a bunny. He was fostering it for the shelter. It came to them with a broken hind leg. My bro had to try to keep said bunny from hopping…which never worked out well. After 5 (seriously) surgeries (thankfully, paid for by the shelter), bunny got the bad leg amputated…and now lives blissfully with my brother, sister in law, and two kitty sisters…bouncing around, albeit a bit lopsidedly. Rescue pets are the best!!!

    Reply
  4. Holly
    March 2, 2014 at 1:07 am (10 years ago)

    I’m surprised you didn’t mention how long turtles live. They can live 30+ years, so they really are a long-term investment. We started with five baby red-eared sliders in a 5-gallon aquarium which led to a 20-gallon tank and eventually a backyard pond. I never used a filter but changed the water often. The pond has a huge filter, though, and a heater so they don’t have to hibernate in the winter. We have a total of 12 turtles now, not because they reproduced, but because we were given a lot of turtles that people got tired of taking care of.

    Reply
    • momzee
      May 4, 2016 at 11:46 am (8 years ago)

      Can you please take my turtle? I’d love for him to have such a wonderful home as you have described, we just can’t provide that for him. He’s doing well in a 75 gallon aquarium, but a pond sounds so much more fun, along with some friends. We struggle with taking proper care of him sometimes, busy family with 2 kids, and we work full time.I just wish he could have better.

      Reply
      • Julie Ruble
        May 4, 2016 at 12:33 pm (8 years ago)

        I’m sure he loves his home with you! If you do decide to rehome, look for a reputable reptile rescue in your area and they can help. Definitely don’t release into local ponds or bodies of water, since turtles can devastate the local ecosystem or meet a cruel fate themselves when they are nonnative or have been raised in captivity. Reptile rescues can definitely help him find the perfect fit if you feel you can’t care for him!

        Reply
  5. Miriam
    March 2, 2014 at 5:19 am (10 years ago)

    Best story on a blog post EVER. The coconut cream pie bars look heavenly and will be made, but coming in 2nd place to that story 🙂 Gee, I wonder if the chick who hated reading through all the “stuff” will pin this one? I wonder if she will Google Turtle Penises? Thanks for starting of my Sunday off right!

    Reply
  6. Coco @ Opera Girl Cooks
    March 2, 2014 at 3:37 pm (10 years ago)

    God bless you and your turtle, Julie. I am reading this in a cafe, wishing I were in the privacy of my own home so I could google turtle penises. Dangit.

    Reply
  7. Catpro
    March 2, 2014 at 4:12 pm (10 years ago)

    Best blog story I’ve ever read and I have my favorite dessert – coconut cream pie – to thank once again. Will be following you from now on for future updates, Julie.

    Reply
  8. cheri
    March 3, 2014 at 9:53 am (10 years ago)

    What a sweet story. Love the coconut bars!

    Reply
  9. dina
    March 3, 2014 at 10:30 am (10 years ago)

    it looks delicious!

    Reply
  10. Vickie H.
    March 3, 2014 at 2:37 pm (10 years ago)

    I adore a great rescue story! What a blessing for Squirt that you care so much and have repeatedly taken the necessary steps to provide him with good quality of life! Kudos to you! And I can’t wait to make the Coconut Pie Bars! Look SCRUMPTIOUS!!!

    Reply
  11. Laura Dembowski
    March 3, 2014 at 3:47 pm (10 years ago)

    I think most pets are a lot of work, but worth it because of the joy they give in return. I would be willing to do any amount of work for these bars – they are perfection!

    Reply
  12. Tracy | Peanut Butter and Onion
    March 4, 2014 at 1:48 pm (10 years ago)

    I had no idea they were they much trouble. But like with most pets, they always seem to be worth the trouble, Great cake!

    Reply
  13. Jenny @ BAKE
    March 8, 2014 at 3:03 am (10 years ago)

    Wow that’s a lot of work! it makes having a dog sound easy! This post had me laughing at my screen and reading portions to my boyfriend. And on top of that these coconut bars look incredible!

    Reply
  14. Donna Barstow
    March 12, 2014 at 1:52 am (10 years ago)

    I was looking at dessert blogs to see how big the images are (yours are the biggest!) and had no idea I’d come across a post on turtles with photos of pies!

    I had turtles when I was little (when they were legal), and then bought one myself after college (illegally). They’ve done good research on food now, to keep them alive. And in the LA sun, mine kept growing and growing and growing…I finally gave him to someone who had a backyard pond for him. He was very smart, and now I wonder if I did the right thing…but otherwise I had to keep putting him in the bathtub…and then change the water.

    Reply
  15. Myra
    March 17, 2014 at 6:52 am (10 years ago)

    Hilarious! I loved the pictures of treats interspersed throughout the turtle tale! (seriously going to make those)

    We have a rescue tortoise, and you’re absolutely right- they have HUGE personalities! I never would’ve dreamed our Thor would have such a wide variety of expressions, much less be so lovable!

    But yeah, those vet bills… Yeesh.

    Thanks for the laugh! Turtle Peen: A great way to start the day. 😀

    Reply
  16. Karen
    March 28, 2014 at 5:11 am (10 years ago)

    Could you please tell me how to make half and half we dont have that inAustralia.

    Reply
      • Nadia
        May 6, 2016 at 10:04 pm (8 years ago)

        If the filter ever stops get a hammer and gently tap upward on the motor from the bottom. It will start working. Had fish for years and couldn’t afford to get new filters every time an outage happened.

        Reply
      • Cindy
        May 30, 2016 at 12:39 pm (8 years ago)

        Can you freeze these delicious coconut bars?

        Reply
        • Julie Ruble
          May 30, 2016 at 12:51 pm (8 years ago)

          I wouldn’t think they’d hold up well because of the pastry cream and whipped cream, unfortunately!

          Reply
  17. Linda Slaby
    March 28, 2014 at 10:05 am (10 years ago)

    I came to this site because of the yummy looking Coconut Cream bars…… the next thing I know I’m lost in
    a cute story about a rescue turtle! Thanks so much for a great resipes and wonderful story.
    I can’t wait to try your other resipes because they all look terrific!

    Reply
    • Denise Wisley
      June 4, 2016 at 9:15 pm (8 years ago)

      I totally agree!! I was scrolling through Pinterest (June 2016) & saw a to-die-for photo of something I’d never heard of, “Coconut Cream Pie Bars” and immediately wanted to get intructions & ingredients on how to make them. Next thing I know, I find myself intensely immersed into a story about a young lady and her personal experience with a rescue slider turtle, that I totally forgot about the recipe! Lol!! So with that said, THANK YOU for sharing BOTH and including photos!! I cannot wait to make this recipe!!

      Reply
  18. Kim
    April 3, 2014 at 2:46 pm (10 years ago)

    This is probably a stupid question, but what is icing sugar?

    Reply
    • Julie Ruble
      April 3, 2014 at 2:49 pm (10 years ago)

      Not stupid! Icing sugar is also called powdered sugar, 10X sugar, or confectioners’ sugar.

      Reply
  19. Patricia
    April 5, 2014 at 11:54 am (10 years ago)

    Holy cow! That looks so amazing. Having a little birthday tea on Sunday. Gonna make the coconut cream filling to go inside the coconut cupcakes. Your blog is dangerous!

    Reply
  20. Joanna Flaherty
    April 6, 2014 at 11:44 am (10 years ago)

    Hi…I am a fan of coconut cream anything…but have gluten issues…have you tried making them GF or has anyone else done it and commented ?

    Reply
    • Julie Ruble
      April 6, 2014 at 11:59 am (10 years ago)

      I haven’t tried it, but I think the crust would work with a gluten-free flour mix. If you try, please let us know how it goes!

      Reply
    • Cheryl
      December 13, 2014 at 9:19 pm (9 years ago)

      Gluten-Free Pastry (food processor* method)

      1/2 cup sorghum flour
      1/2 cup potato starch
      1/3 cup tapioca flour
      1/2 teaspoon xanthan gum
      1/2 teaspoon salt
      1/4 teaspoon baking powder
      1 stick (4 ounces) unsalted butter, cut into 1/2-inch cubes and frozen for 10 minutes
      1 tablespoon lemon juice or cider vinegar
      Ice water to make 1/2 cup

      1 With metal blade in place, add sorghum flour, potato starch, tapioca flour, xanthan gum, salt and baking powder to work bowl of food processor. Turn on for three seconds to combine. Add half the frozen butter and process for 10 seconds or until mixture has the consistency of coarse meal. Add remaining butter and pulse for six 1-second pulses, or until the frozen butter is the size of small peas.

      2 In 1/2-cup measure, combine lemon juice or vinegar and ice water. Pour over all of flour mixture; pulse for six 1-second pulses or just until dough forms large clumps; do not over-process.

      3 Do not refrigerate dough at this point as I do with regular all-butter pie crust. Turn dough out onto lightly floured (gluten-free, of course) surface–a piece of plastic wrap makes it easier. Form dough into a round disk, sprinkle lightly with gluten-free flour–topping it with another piece of plastic wrap makes it easier–and roll out to 12- to 13-inch circle. Transfer to Pyrex pie plate that has been sprayed with cooking spray. Crimp the edge in your favorite way, then pop the pie plate into the freezer while you prepare pie filling.

      Reply
      • Janice
        February 25, 2015 at 9:48 pm (9 years ago)

        Pls send copy OF Gluten Free recipe. TY.

        Reply
        • GrimFix
          April 15, 2016 at 9:06 pm (8 years ago)

          They now have all purpose GF flour substitutes on the market. Krusteaz is one Bob’s Red Mill is another. They are a 1:1 substitute with (read the container carefully first) no need for xanthum gum and all the different components listed above. Hope that helps!

          Reply
  21. RoxanneMarino
    April 10, 2014 at 7:36 pm (10 years ago)

    Julie: Like everyone else went looking for the coconut cream recipe..and found this oh so true story about Squirt the rescue slider. My daughter also rescued a LARGE female slider and gave her me as a birthday gift..
    We have an out door pond/waterfall so she had a beautiful home to live in…until this “handsome” boy walked up the street looking for his “new” soul mate.. My husband said “no way” Tillie is doing just fine all by herself.. But no way..I said , he’ll just get crushed by a car or die from some horrable death…As usual I won this debate and Shelden can to live in our pond with Tillie. One year later..we see Tillie digging a very large hole..It took her over two hours to make it just right, then out popped 15 little eggs. What a great experience. We even took pic’s…6 cluches later, over a two year period we would have 32 baby turtles, in the house in tanks from 5 to 150 gals.
    I laughed so hard about the problems you had with your one turtle, just have 32 babies in various sized tanks, all because I said..Sheldon could enjoy Tillie’s house..We kept the hachlings until they reached 4″ legal size to be sold…or given away.. This process wound up costing lost on money. I just kept wonder if I could neuter Sheldon and that would be the end of that….But having an outdoor pond is not animal proof. One night a family of raccoon’s stopped by, pulled Sheldon out of his nesting house and damaged his beautiful long finger nails and front legs..We had to put him down. He is buried directly across from the pond where 4 of his daughters share a home with there mom. We have reinforced the pond to animal proof it. So Tillie, Millie, Kelly, Shelly and baby girl, all bask in the warmth of the California sun. By the way…we never did get to see the purple thing coming out of his body. But did witness his mating dance, waving those beautiful long nails in front of Tillie’s face…I guess putting her in his trance. What a beautiful time to share this experience…
    Thanks for your story of Squirt…Hope you enjoyed the life and times of the Red Ear slider family. .

    Reply
    • Kari
      October 5, 2019 at 4:09 pm (4 years ago)

      Love your story. Too bad about Shelden.

      Reply
      • Julie Ruble
        October 6, 2019 at 3:29 pm (4 years ago)

        Thank you!

        Reply
  22. elizabeth
    April 14, 2014 at 3:32 pm (10 years ago)

    Have you tried topping these bars with coconut whipped cream instead of regular whipped cream? I might try that unless there are recommendations against it, if it might throw off the sweetness factor or something!

    Reply
    • Julie Ruble
      April 14, 2014 at 3:34 pm (10 years ago)

      I would go for it, Elizabeth, maybe just slightly sweetened. It sounds wonderful!

      Reply
  23. Valerie
    April 15, 2014 at 12:59 pm (10 years ago)

    Whats half and half? I would like to make these Cocnut bars

    Reply
      • janis
        January 22, 2015 at 3:47 pm (9 years ago)

        i think years ago half and half cream was also known as cereal cream here in canada

        Reply
        • janis
          January 22, 2015 at 3:58 pm (9 years ago)

          i think years ago half and half cream was also known as cereal cream here in canada,
          looks like a easy good recipe…gonna try it

          Reply
  24. Joy
    April 16, 2014 at 6:58 am (10 years ago)

    When you say coconut milk, do you use kind in can or carton? Tks

    Reply
    • Julie Ruble
      April 16, 2014 at 7:36 am (10 years ago)

      The kind in a can.

      Reply
      • Joy
        April 17, 2014 at 5:38 pm (10 years ago)

        Thank you … And do you shake the can and use all of it or only the solid?

        Reply
        • Julie Ruble
          April 17, 2014 at 5:58 pm (10 years ago)

          Shake and use 🙂

          Reply
    • Peggy Ridenour
      April 22, 2016 at 1:25 pm (8 years ago)

      I am lactose intolerant. What can I use instead of half and half?

      Reply
      • Julie Ruble
        April 22, 2016 at 3:54 pm (8 years ago)

        I’m sorry — I’m not sure.

        Reply
  25. Alina
    April 16, 2014 at 6:51 pm (10 years ago)

    These look amazing! I’m totally making these for Easter. Do you use sweetened or unsweetened coconut flakes?

    Reply
    • Julie Ruble
      April 16, 2014 at 9:21 pm (10 years ago)

      Thanks! Hope you love them, Alina! I used sweetened coconut flakes.

      Reply
  26. Ann
    April 17, 2014 at 2:49 pm (10 years ago)

    Can’t wait to try this!

    Reply
  27. Lark
    April 20, 2014 at 6:38 pm (10 years ago)

    Hello! I found your blog while I was at another site – your lovely photos of your coconut pie bars sucked me right in. And after I clicked on the link, your turtle story did the same. It was funny and seriously touching. Good on you for taking such good care of your friend! The world needs more like you. 🙂 I am looking forward to trying these delicious looking treats and exploring the rest of your recipes. My coconut loving family is looking forward to it, too!

    Reply
  28. Kathy
    April 25, 2014 at 5:03 pm (10 years ago)

    So you use sweetened or unsweetened coconut milk?

    Reply
    • Julie Ruble
      April 25, 2014 at 5:33 pm (10 years ago)

      Unsweetened

      Reply
  29. Pat
    May 5, 2014 at 11:09 pm (10 years ago)

    What is icing sugar? Do you mean powdered sugar or what? I have never heard of icing sugar. I would love to make this Coconut cream pie bar , it really looks good. I don’t want to mess it up by putting in the wrong sugar.

    Reply
    • Julie Ruble
      May 5, 2014 at 11:37 pm (10 years ago)

      Yes, icing sugar is also called powdered sugar, 10X sugar, and confectioners’ sugar.

      Reply
  30. Patti
    May 10, 2014 at 10:17 pm (10 years ago)

    Have NO idea how a coconut cream pie bar got mixed in with the turtle story, but I just loved the turtle story (haven’t tried the bars yet). I am the crazy woman stopping traffic in the Tampa Bay area to help turtles (and tortoises) get across the street before they are squashed. Love turtles and love your story. Thanks so much for the photo of Squirt ( and for the coconut bar recipe!!).

    Reply
  31. lesley
    May 23, 2014 at 12:02 am (10 years ago)

    Making these tomorrow! Do I use salted or unsalted butter?

    Reply
    • Julie Ruble
      May 23, 2014 at 3:41 am (10 years ago)

      Unsalted. Hope you enjoy!

      Reply
  32. lesley
    May 23, 2014 at 11:25 pm (10 years ago)

    One more question-sorry-do I use sweetened coconut milk thats in a can-like the kind youd make a pineapple/coconut drink with?

    Reply
    • Julie Ruble
      May 24, 2014 at 7:51 am (10 years ago)

      Yep, the canned coconut milk (mine is unsweetened). Usually in the Asian food aisle or with the canned milks (evaporated milk, etc.) on the baking aisle.

      Reply
  33. lesley
    May 24, 2014 at 11:12 pm (10 years ago)

    Thanks! Got it cooling now-added a bit more coconut extract, hopefully not too sweet. Thanks again!

    Reply
  34. Suzanne
    September 15, 2014 at 4:20 pm (10 years ago)

    Do you think you could use the light canned coconut milk? Or only the full fat regular? Can’t wait to make these!

    Reply
    • Julie Ruble
      September 15, 2014 at 4:26 pm (10 years ago)

      I’d only use the full fat just to be sure it will work. Thanks, Suzanne!

      Reply
      • Erin
        April 19, 2015 at 2:48 am (9 years ago)

        I used light coconut milk (only because that’s all they had at Trader Joes) and it worked perfectly!

        Reply
        • CB
          August 21, 2019 at 12:13 pm (5 years ago)

          Same as above – Trader joe light coconut milk worked perfectly

          Reply
  35. roxanne
    September 22, 2014 at 9:14 pm (9 years ago)

    looks goo

    Reply
  36. Gertrude
    December 4, 2014 at 9:25 am (9 years ago)

    Julie, do you think these squares would freeze? I am thinking maybe not but hoping yes. 😉

    Reply
    • Julie Ruble
      December 4, 2014 at 12:33 pm (9 years ago)

      Hi Gertrude! Unfortunately I feel like they wouldn’t freeze well. Now I’m totally the kind of person who would try it anyway and eat them in whatever state they ended up in, but I’m almost certain they wouldn’t be “like new.” Ha! Usually creamy-type things separate or get weird when frozen.

      Reply
  37. Cindy
    December 16, 2014 at 8:22 pm (9 years ago)

    This is a fantastic recipe and serves many! When I bring it to staff luncheons it always gets raves. Thanks very much for sharing.

    Reply
  38. Shirlee Lamb
    January 20, 2015 at 2:33 pm (9 years ago)

    I do see a print button. How do I print friendly recipe.?

    Reply
  39. alice
    February 3, 2015 at 6:57 pm (9 years ago)

    thanks for the delighttful story about you and your shelled companion! I have two of my own and we’re going on 16 years together!

    Reply
  40. Vivian Fent
    February 3, 2015 at 7:40 pm (9 years ago)

    Could you make this and use meringue instead of the whipped topping?

    Reply
    • Julie Ruble
      February 3, 2015 at 7:46 pm (9 years ago)

      Yes, I think meringue would work fine. Enjoy!

      Reply
  41. Tonya
    February 4, 2015 at 9:13 am (9 years ago)

    icwas sitting at table with my morning coffee looking for a different kind of birthday cake. I love coconut (so does the birthday boy) so I decided to pin it. What a transformation of attitude for me!!! Not only did I find execs toy what I was looking for with the eye watering and mouth salivating pictures but my grumpiness turned into a lift in spirit when I read the story. Thank you for sharing this inspiring and meaningful life experience. By the way, I did Google turtle penis. Thanks again. You made my day.

    Reply
  42. Kindle Arnold
    February 6, 2015 at 7:19 pm (9 years ago)

    I clicked on the link for the recipe (because I absolutely adore coconut cream ANYTHING) but I’m commenting because this is, hands down, THE funniest blog I have EVERYTHING read in my life! I simply could not tear myself away from your turtle and his purple “thing.” Thank you for posting this!

    Reply
    • Kindle Arnold
      February 6, 2015 at 7:22 pm (9 years ago)

      *ever, not everything. Stupid autocorrect.

      Reply
    • Julie Ruble
      February 6, 2015 at 7:35 pm (9 years ago)

      LOL, thank you Kindle! So glad you enjoyed it 😉

      Reply
  43. Sharon Byrn
    February 8, 2015 at 4:37 pm (9 years ago)

    Can someone please tell me what icing sugar is? Is it granulated or powdered or something else? Thanks

    Reply
    • Julie Ruble
      February 8, 2015 at 5:03 pm (9 years ago)

      Hi Sharon! Icing sugar is the same thing as powdered sugar, confectioners’ sugar, 10X sugar. All different names for the same thing. Enjoy!

      Reply
  44. Michelle
    February 10, 2015 at 11:45 am (9 years ago)

    Loved reading this post – too funny! And the bars look amazing! Can’t wait to try them. Thanks for putting a smile on my face this morning. 🙂

    Reply
  45. George Monaghan
    February 19, 2015 at 3:10 pm (9 years ago)

    Just do yourself, and anyone that’s lucky enough to be around, and make this. Amazeballs.

    Reply
    • George Monaghan
      February 19, 2015 at 3:14 pm (9 years ago)

      Ha! Forgot the Just do yourself “a favor” part. New at this… Still very good!

      Reply
  46. Elizabeth
    February 22, 2015 at 10:06 am (9 years ago)

    These look amazing, I want to make them for my daughter. I was wondering about the gelatin. What flavor do I use? Thx and great turtle story!

    Reply
    • Julie Ruble
      February 22, 2015 at 11:08 am (9 years ago)

      Hi there! It’s unflavored gelatin (I use Knox brand) — not the Jello flavored gelatin. Hope you enjoy!

      Reply
  47. Robyn
    March 21, 2015 at 2:16 pm (9 years ago)

    Mmmm, these bars look fabulous! Loved the story of squirt (and Roxanne’s story too). And yes, just say no to turtles if possible.

    Reply
  48. Shirley Henschel
    March 28, 2015 at 1:21 pm (9 years ago)

    Would like recipe for coconut cream dessert bars. My husbands favorite.

    Reply
    • Julie Ruble
      March 28, 2015 at 1:35 pm (9 years ago)

      Hi Shirley! The recipe is at the bottom of the post above. Let me know if you can’t find it. Enjoy!

      Reply
  49. Twana Blevins
    June 1, 2015 at 12:28 pm (9 years ago)

    I did make the coconut cream bars. My family loved them. We loved them so much I am taking this dessert to a family reunion.

    Reply
  50. SY
    June 28, 2015 at 7:52 pm (9 years ago)

    omg these look amazing, but don’t the eggs cook?

    Reply
    • Julie Ruble
      June 28, 2015 at 10:03 pm (9 years ago)

      They do rise to “safe”/”cooked” temperature for an egg custard, but provided you stir constantly per the instructions, they don’t cook as in hardening in little bits of white/yolk.

      Reply
  51. Jan
    July 1, 2015 at 9:28 pm (9 years ago)

    Do you have to do the sling? What is the purpose?

    Reply
    • Julie Ruble
      July 1, 2015 at 9:32 pm (9 years ago)

      It makes it easy to remove the bars so they will come out nicely. It also aids in pan cleanup. You could probably grease the pan and do without if you didn’t mind how the bars looked, but I’ve never tried. Enjoy!

      Reply
  52. Misty
    July 2, 2015 at 11:03 am (9 years ago)

    Julie, you are hilarious, and I feel your pain!!!! Every time I am sure I am alone in the world with the misery that is the care of my 2 turtles, I am reminded that there are others (or at least one other, you) who are conflicted and in pain. And after all, isn’t that love? I adopted (rescued) my common map from a yard sale in 1997 – I knew whoever took him home would not care for him properly and he’d likely die. I got him a companion (a red eared slider) since I have come to find that turtles can be/often are very social (observe them on logs together, piled on top of each other). The companion was violent and bit my map so him went to a wildlife rehab where they acclimated him for release in an place where they take their rehabbers (they are native here, don’t worry). His current companion has been with us since 2000, a Mississippi Map.

    But in general I absolutely agree with you: don’t buy them, don’t have them. I hate to count what now must be the years of my life, and life savings, in providing for them and cleaning their tank.

    And you are absolutely right about filters: expensive and requiring an IQ of 200 to make them work.

    But you are a saint. At least you just wanted to kill yourself. I made everyone around me want to kill themselves. I am the Cursing Mommy par excellance, especially when I can’t get the filter lid off and when I do it spews filthy water all over me and the rug. Time and again I have sworn that I would find them a new home, and once the water change and filter change is over, I relax and love them again. But I do blame them for me not having a second child. Who would have time?

    Thanks for your post. You made me smile. I’m glad to know there’s at least one other crazy out there. And believe me, it’s a toss up as to which is worse: turtle care or dealing with the insurance company during cancer. Seriously. No joke.

    Reply
  53. Kitty Murphy
    July 13, 2015 at 1:10 pm (9 years ago)

    Can you make in smaller pan. I think it is like 5×9

    Reply
  54. Terina
    April 12, 2016 at 12:27 am (8 years ago)

    I love your recipes I seen on Facebook. And I spend all my free time in my kitchen because I love to bake all the time and not scared to try new recipes

    Reply
  55. Carol
    April 15, 2016 at 9:37 pm (8 years ago)

    Julie ,I so loved your story about squirt.The story will be remembered for quite awhile ,every time I see a Turtle I will think of you and squirt :0) .Looking forward to making these yummy looking squares .Thank you for the story and the recipe

    Reply
    • Julie Ruble
      April 15, 2016 at 10:58 pm (8 years ago)

      Aw, thank you, Carol! <3

      Reply
  56. Sarah Woodward
    April 18, 2016 at 11:33 am (8 years ago)

    I am wondering if you could make a meringue topping and bake the whole thing in the oven until the meringue is golden brown?

    Reply
    • Julie Ruble
      April 18, 2016 at 2:48 pm (8 years ago)

      I’d worry that the pastry cream would be negatively affected since it’s made with whipped cream. I wonder if you can do the meringue and then torch it instead?

      Reply
  57. Barb Fuller
    April 24, 2016 at 1:18 pm (8 years ago)

    Gelatin clumped immediately in whipping cream. Tried it twice; had to pick out the gel clumps. Cream still maintained stiffness. Tin foil was a pain in the rear — won’t do that next time.

    Reply
    • Julie Ruble
      April 24, 2016 at 8:45 pm (8 years ago)

      Barb, look up “stabilizing whipped cream” for more options. Feel free to use parchment.

      Reply
  58. Lynn
    April 24, 2016 at 8:12 pm (8 years ago)

    Just wondering if this can be made a day ahead?
    Sounds delicious!

    Reply
    • Julie Ruble
      April 24, 2016 at 8:43 pm (8 years ago)

      Thanks! Yes, just pop it in the fridge.

      Reply
  59. Nadine
    April 25, 2016 at 2:07 am (8 years ago)

    haha hysterical! most noisy reading of a recipe here at our house. I keep waking up my husband (I’m potluck recipe searching, in bed ). So of course I had to google turtle penises which lead to The Ten most bizarre animal genitalia, and, you know, how one site leads to another. thanks for the recipe and the good laughs.

    Reply
  60. Dixi
    April 26, 2016 at 7:47 pm (8 years ago)

    This is AMAZING! I made it for a bake sale. It sold out right away, and they were looking for more!

    Reply
    • Julie Ruble
      April 26, 2016 at 9:39 pm (8 years ago)

      Hooray!! I’m so glad to hear that, Dixi!

      Reply
  61. Denise
    April 30, 2016 at 8:47 pm (8 years ago)

    This was so funny to read! We also had a rescue turtle. His name was Pavlov cause he could here his food can opening and bang on the side of the tank!! We finally gave him away when my 1 year old (well almost two) kept pulling a chair to the counter and Pickering him up and talking to him etc. we finally. We’re done when she had a spoon and was trying to get his “head out!” “Head out!!) sent him to. A home with buy who was thrilled to have him!!

    Reply
  62. melissa
    May 20, 2016 at 11:40 pm (8 years ago)

    OMGosh. that is the funniest post ever. I was in a really crummy mood and that made me laugh. Tks. Glad there are people like you to rescue turtles. I never will after reading this.

    Reply
  63. Jacki
    May 23, 2016 at 9:56 pm (8 years ago)

    Do I use sweetened coconut flakes or unsweetened to toast or does it matter?
    Thanks!!

    Reply
    • Julie Ruble
      May 23, 2016 at 10:08 pm (8 years ago)

      It will work either way, but I use sweetened! Enjoy!

      Reply
  64. Auntiepatch
    June 18, 2016 at 2:15 pm (8 years ago)

    One year ago: Bailey’s Hazelnut Chocolate Tiramisu
    Two years ago: Chocolate & Coconut Cream Pie Bars
    Three years ago: Bright, Fun Blackberry Trifle
    Four years ago: Vegan Pumpkin Nut Bread

    I love the progression here; Healthy, healthy and fun, decadent, and then BOOZE!

    Reply
    • Julie Ruble
      June 18, 2016 at 2:16 pm (8 years ago)

      Oh my gosh it’s just like my life ????????????

      Reply
  65. Kate
    July 14, 2016 at 2:34 pm (8 years ago)

    Ok Willow –

    I had a similar adventure so I could identify on a REALLY personal level. Mine unfolded with the “gift” of a turtle for my son, dug out of a neighbors yard. Mind you I had a 5 year old, a husband in a wheelchair (in and out of rehab for a work injury!), worked 60+ hours a week and managed to maintain our house (not so sure about my sanity!).

    The pump fiascos were exactly as described but I do believe you left out the descriptions of the odorous consequences of such failures.

    Eco, as he was dubbed by my son, was eventually living in a pond in our backyard – with requisite water changes every third day as the sun came up, on my knees, with a bucket. He reached the point where the only thing he would eat was salmon – hand fed from chopsticks! He had to be brought every evening to prevent the raccoons from eating him. None of this was to his liking as he repeatedly tunneled out of our yard and was found in our neighbors yard being roughed up by their dog and on his last escape, was found wandering down the middle of the road in front of the school 1/4 mile from home.

    I did the only sensible thing I could think of at this point – I located a wildlife rescue 50 miles from home – drove him to them – made a generous donation – and watched with my son as Eco dove happily into a H U G E pond with other turtle friends. I slept blissfully for the first time in three years and vowed to never again accept a turtle as a “gift”.

    The coconut bars are divine – loved by all!

    Reply
  66. Sue glassock
    July 23, 2016 at 1:57 pm (8 years ago)

    Hi just just found yr site..love the turtle story..in recipe coconut cream bars what is half and half xxx

    Reply
  67. Denise
    August 23, 2016 at 10:15 pm (8 years ago)

    I opened this thread to read the recipe but enjoyed your story about your turtle. I can relate as I adopted 2 rescued red sliders from a friend. Those turtles grew to large for their tank(3) within 12 months. I was caring for them for my son who now has them each in their own 50 gallon tank with a huge filter system for each.. But he researched their care and they are doing well and appear to be full size now…. but the price for care is huge and turtles should never be just tossed out into a nearby pond. Luckily he likes his turtles. btw I love the coconut cream bars…:)

    Reply
  68. Linda
    February 3, 2017 at 1:09 am (7 years ago)

    Hi Julie the Coconut Cream Pie Bars look scrumptious . Love to bake the bars only problem is I can’t get half and half in Australia . What can I substitute half and half for? Thank you.

    Reply
  69. Judy M. Minemyer
    April 13, 2017 at 2:15 pm (7 years ago)

    Is the coconut milk called for in this recipe canned or coconut milk as in like almond milk in the dairy case.I want to try these right away but want to be sure I’m using correct ingredients. They look decadent.But I LOVED your turtle tale,but don’t think I will be looking up turtle penis’s.LOL

    Reply
    • Julie Ruble
      April 17, 2017 at 4:51 pm (7 years ago)

      LOL! Thanks for your kind words, Judy! It is canned coconut milk. Hope you love them!

      Reply
  70. HeidiJ
    September 3, 2017 at 4:50 pm (7 years ago)

    LOVE this!! Accidentally burned the first batch of filling…made another, but only half the recipe (out of other ingredients), and it was PLENTY of filling. Kept the original amt of extracts and shredded coconut though! 🙂

    Reply
  71. W Kruger
    September 7, 2017 at 8:44 pm (7 years ago)

    Is the coconut milk from a carton (as the kind you put on cereal) or is it the kind from a can?

    Reply
    • Julie Ruble
      September 7, 2017 at 9:55 pm (7 years ago)

      I use the kind in a can!

      Reply
      • W Kruger
        September 8, 2017 at 9:18 pm (7 years ago)

        Thx! I’m making for my dad’s birthday! 🙂

        Reply
        • Julie Ruble
          September 25, 2017 at 12:06 am (6 years ago)

          Happy happy birthday to him! I hope you all enjoy them!

          Reply
  72. Mai
    October 24, 2017 at 7:28 pm (6 years ago)

    Hello , please what a half-and-half mean ??
    I couldn’t anderstand

    Reply
  73. Sheila
    December 18, 2017 at 11:59 am (6 years ago)

    Thank you for the coconut cream recipe. I love animals but when I click on a recipe in Pinterest I expect food recipe not a long story about turtles to scroll through. May I suggest we stick to topic animals with animals food with food

    Reply
    • Julie Ruble
      December 18, 2017 at 4:07 pm (6 years ago)

      This is very clearly not the blog for you, Sheila.

      Reply
      • Sandy
        February 28, 2019 at 4:44 pm (5 years ago)

        Excellent reply, Julie.

        Reply
  74. Monica Joseph
    February 7, 2018 at 4:17 am (6 years ago)

    Hi Dear,
    Greetings from India…
    I subscribed to your newsletter and was told the data does not match the schemas… Please add me to your blog for any future updates… I am a stay-in Mom and do a bit of baking, DIYs, Crafts and Cooking…
    Love your yummy recipes which are easy to follow.
    Thanking you in advance..
    Monica Joseph

    Reply
  75. Susan P
    February 20, 2018 at 10:44 am (6 years ago)

    Hello, hoping you’ll see this as I’m writing 4 years after the posting. I want to make this to send to work with my husband for his secretary’s birthday. Can I add the whipped cream and let it sit in the fridge overnight, or should I do it in the morning before he takes it to work? He does have a fridge at work.I will try and stabilize the whipped cream as you indicate.

    Reply
    • Julie Ruble
      February 20, 2018 at 11:19 am (6 years ago)

      Hi Susan! It’s definitely best to make it the morning of, but if you stabilize it, it will work in the fridge overnight. It might have some watery cream at the bottom of the bowl in the morning if you do so, but you can just spoon the whipped cream out and leave that. Hope they enjoy!

      Reply
      • Susan P
        February 24, 2019 at 4:14 pm (5 years ago)

        I have to tell you, I’ve made this dessert multiple times and can’t tell you how many people I’ve given the recipe to and told them about your blog. Making it again today as it’s ALWAYS a huge hit. Have to print out several copies of the recipe when I make it, of course with your blog link included. Thanks again for the great recipe.

        Reply
  76. Kim
    March 30, 2018 at 9:11 am (6 years ago)

    I decided to make a coconut cream pie for an employee at work as that is what she requested, but we have way more employees than 1 pie would feed, so I started googling coconut cream pie bars… and yours ???? looked the best. I’m definitely not afraid of spending a little extra time whisking if it’s gonna mean a tastier version (I love that you said “just do it” lol. My only little issue I had was microwaving the gelatin, I’ve never done that before and 30 seconds in my microwave was too long and it boiled over. Otherwise, great recipe! And Your turtle story made me ???? . Great post, good job!

    Reply
    • Julie Ruble
      March 30, 2018 at 12:50 pm (6 years ago)

      Thanks for sharing, Kim! I hope you all really enjoy them!

      Reply
  77. Cindy Zimmerman
    April 5, 2018 at 10:24 pm (6 years ago)

    I have made about 10 different pie recipes.. this tops them all. I left off the whip cream topping. These were so good…makes a lot! My husband has never cared for coconut, but told me to save this recipe!

    Reply
  78. Lou
    June 9, 2018 at 7:09 am (6 years ago)

    Thanks for the wonderful story about your turtle adventures & his body part! :>)
    Recipe itself says sugar for crust, but in narration it say confectioners sugar for the crust. Which should be used?
    Thanks for a good belly laugh & a delicious looking recipe. Can’t wait to try it!

    Reply
    • Julie Ruble
      November 23, 2018 at 8:47 pm (5 years ago)

      Hi Lou! It’s confectioners’ sugar or powdered sugar. Enjoy!

      Reply
  79. Penny Hausch
    November 23, 2018 at 8:00 pm (5 years ago)

    Can the coconut cream pie bars be refrigerated overnight?

    Reply
    • Julie Ruble
      November 23, 2018 at 8:45 pm (5 years ago)

      Yes, they can! If cooking before serving them, I’d refrigerate the bars without the cream and then make and add the whipped cream on the day you’re serving them just so it’ll be very fresh. Enjoy!

      Reply
  80. chinni k
    February 17, 2019 at 11:41 pm (5 years ago)

    It looks delicious

    Reply
    • Julie Ruble
      February 18, 2019 at 3:52 pm (5 years ago)

      Thank you!

      Reply
  81. Yang
    February 20, 2019 at 10:09 pm (5 years ago)

    It looks so pretty! The frosting looks like really soft marshmallow fluff, but better. Can I add small slices of walnuts to the crust? I want to add a little bit of crunch to it. Or maybe I could just make two batches, one with walnuts and the other without. Thank you for this awesome recipe, Julie!

    Reply
    • Julie Ruble
      February 20, 2019 at 10:25 pm (5 years ago)

      Thank you! That sounds like a delicious addition to me! I think it will turn out great!

      Reply
  82. Susan P
    February 26, 2019 at 12:47 pm (5 years ago)

    I commented above that I’ve made this dessert many times and it’s been perfect. This time it kind of cradled…….so disappointed. What could I have done wrong?

    Reply
  83. Lisa
    March 3, 2019 at 4:20 pm (5 years ago)

    Holy Smokeroos!!!!!!! These are Ike the best thing I’ve ever put in my mouth! I followed the recipe exactly. I thought the 1/2 tsp of coconut extract would be too much, but it turned out it was just right! Never used gelatin as a stabilizer before-love that idea too—HOME RUN! Thanks for the great recipe. (Didn’t read the blog post, but I guess I better, judging by all the comments about THAT!!)

    Reply
  84. Marie
    April 15, 2019 at 3:21 pm (5 years ago)

    Could this be made into a 9” deep dish pie instead of bars

    Reply
    • Julie Ruble
      April 15, 2019 at 10:34 pm (5 years ago)

      It could be, but the pan conversion isn’t 1:1 and the crust isn’t really a pie crust consistency. I started thinking through the conversions I’d make if I were going to try it and realized I’d probably opt to make a coconut cream pie if I were going to do that instead of this recipe.

      Reply
      • Marie
        April 16, 2019 at 9:11 pm (5 years ago)

        Thank you for your feed back
        I have made these bars before and honestly there are the best coconut cream bars ever

        Reply
  85. Barbara
    May 7, 2019 at 12:07 am (5 years ago)

    This recipe was delicious, There are only three of us so I made half the recipe and put it in a 9×9 inch square pan. It came out perfect. My husband who loves count cream pies was delighted with this recipe. Thank you.

    Reply
    • Julie Ruble
      May 7, 2019 at 12:21 am (5 years ago)

      I’m so glad you all enjoyed it, Barbara! Thanks for your kind words!

      Reply
  86. Kari
    October 5, 2019 at 4:11 pm (4 years ago)

    Love the story of you and Squirt….thank you for sharing. And of course your bars look divine!

    Reply
    • Julie Ruble
      October 6, 2019 at 3:29 pm (4 years ago)

      Thank you, Kari!

      Reply
  87. Mary Beth Miller
    July 5, 2020 at 2:07 pm (4 years ago)

    I just made these for a picnic and everyone loved them! I was a little skeptical because of cooking the filling, but wow, are these good!! I will definitely make them again!! And I loved your turtle story!!

    Reply
  88. Trudy Dodson
    December 9, 2020 at 4:08 pm (3 years ago)

    Oh my! This recipe is the best I’ve tasted or made. Will make again and again! I thought the times were a little off on the crust and the pudding mixture. I had to cook both longer. I’m just wondering why you suggested lining the pan with foil. Would the pie not cut as perfectly without it?

    Reply
  89. Clarebear
    December 14, 2022 at 7:26 pm (1 year ago)

    LOVE this recipe. I actually found this on Pinterest years ago and it’s been my go to ever since. Just wanna let you know it’s amazing. Always a big hit at parties.

    Reply
  90. Elizabeth
    January 2, 2023 at 10:05 am (1 year ago)

    These were marvelous. I did not use foil, just greased my pan and had no trouble getting them out. I knew we wouldn’t eat them all very quickly, so I stored my whipped cream separately and just topped each one before serving, and added toasted coconut. I do use a bit of sour cream to stabilize my whipped cream (no gelatin) and it held up fine in a separate container. Will do that again! Hmm, now I have fresh pineapple, too – maybe I’ll mince that and add to the top.

    Reply
    • Julie Ruble
      January 15, 2023 at 1:40 pm (1 year ago)

      Thank you Elizabeth! I’m so glad you enjoyed them! Thank you for letting me know about the duplicate too!

      Reply
  91. sandy
    April 23, 2023 at 7:49 pm (11 months ago)

    Been trying to get on your email recipe list. Please help me and GOD BLESS. Thank you

    Reply
  92. Jane
    August 27, 2023 at 4:30 pm (7 months ago)

    For the past 30 years I’ve made my best friends birthday cake. This year she wanted something a bit different. We sat down scrolling through Pinterest and when she saw this recipe she yelled “this! this is what I want!” So….being the best friend that I am…I made it for her lol. I had to assemble in parts mainly because we have a tradition to spend her birthday on a girls getaway at her trailer so space is a bit limited in the fridge. This turned out amazing! I was hoping to sneak a piece home from the leftovers but there wasn’t any left lol. The only change I made was that I made a graham cracker crust at her request. This might become another tradition for us lol

    Reply
    • Julie Ruble
      August 27, 2023 at 4:39 pm (7 months ago)

      Oh my gosh I love that!! So glad to be part of your friend’s special day and so glad you enjoyed it!

      Reply

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