Small Batch Coconut Mango Bars

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Delicious small batch coconut mango bars in a vibrant tropical setting

Small Batch Coconut Mango Bars are a delightful treat that brings a burst of tropical flavours right to your kitchen. These sweet, tangy bars combine the richness of coconut with the juicy sweetness of mango, creating a delightful snack or dessert that’s perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself! Ideal for those days when you crave something special but don’t want to bake a large batch, these bars are not only easy to prepare but they also have a lovely texture that will impress your family and friends.

What Goes into This Small Batch Coconut Mango Bars

To whip up these delightful bars, gather the following ingredients:

  • 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (125 g + 15 g)
  • 1.5 tablespoons cornstarch (15 g), for the filling
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (10 g), for the crust
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (50 g), for crust
  • 2 to 3 tablespoons granulated sugar (25 g to 40 g), for filling
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (1 g), for crust
  • Pinch of salt, for filling
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cool but pliable (85 g)
  • 1/2 cup shredded coconut, unsweetened if possible (50 g)
  • 1.5 to 2 cups mango, finely diced (about 300 g to 400 g)
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice (15 ml), for brightness
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla (optional)
  • Pinch of ginger (optional)

Step-by-Step Coconut Mango Bars Recipe

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, sugar, and salt.
  3. Cut the cool, pliable butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. You can use a pastry cutter or your fingers.
  4. Press two-thirds of the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
  5. Dock the crust with a fork and par-bake in the oven for about 10 minutes, or until set.
  6. While the crust bakes, prepare the mango filling. In a bowl, toss the diced mango with sugar, cornstarch, salt, lime juice, and the optional vanilla and ginger. Let it sit for 5 minutes to absorb the flavours.
  7. Spoon the mango filling over the warm crust, spreading it evenly across the surface.
  8. Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture on top of the mango filling.
  9. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the topping is golden and bubbly.
  10. Allow to cool to room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before slicing into bars.

How to Serve Small Batch Coconut Mango Bars

Serving your Coconut Mango Bars is all about presentation and pairing! Once cooled and sliced, you can serve these bars on a lovely platter. Add a sprinkle of toasted coconut or a twist of lime zest on top for an extra touch. They pair beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for those who want to indulge a bit more. For a refreshing drink, why not serve them alongside a chilled glass of coconut water or a fruity smoothie?

Expert Tips for Coconut Mango Bars

  • Choose ripe mango: A perfectly ripe mango will provide the best flavour and sweetness for these bars. Look for fruit that gives slightly when gently squeezed.
  • Add nuts for crunch: If you like a bit of crunch, consider adding chopped nuts like almonds or macadamias to the crumble topping.
  • Make them ahead: These bars store well in the refrigerator for up to a week, making them a convenient treat to prepare in advance.

Coconut Mango Bars FAQs

1. Can I use frozen mango?
Yes! If fresh mango isn’t available, frozen mango works just as well. Just ensure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before using.

2. How should I store leftovers?
Keep any leftover bars in an airtight container in the fridge. They are best enjoyed within a week.

3. Can I make these bars gluten-free?
You can try using a gluten-free all-purpose flour substitute in place of regular flour. Just be sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

These Small Batch Coconut Mango Bars are a fabulous way to indulge in tropical flavours without the fuss of a large bake. Try them out for your next gathering or simply as a treat for yourself—you won’t regret it! Enjoy the delicious combinations of sweet mango and coconut, and share your creations with family and friends!