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This delightfully rich dessert bar recipe is absolutely packed with texture and flavor, striking the perfect balance between a buttery crust and a chewy, nutty topping that will satisfy any sweet tooth craving.
I first made these bars for a neighborhood block party where they disappeared within minutes. The combination of coconut and nuts reminds me of my grandmother's holiday baking, but these are so much easier to prepare.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- Butter: Creates a rich, tender base for these bars that provides the perfect contrast to the chewy topping
- All-purpose flour: Gives structure while maintaining a delicate texture
- Dark brown sugar: Adds depth with its molasses notes that regular sugar simply cannot match
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness
For the Topping
- Dark brown sugar: Packed creates that signature caramelized chewiness that makes these bars irresistible
- All-purpose flour: Helps bind the topping ingredients together without making them heavy
- Baking powder: Provides just enough lift to create the perfect texture
- Eggs: Act as both a binder and provide richness to the topping
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with its warm aromatic notes
- Chopped walnuts or pecans: Add wonderful texture and a nutty flavor that complements the sweetness
- Shredded sweetened coconut flakes: Contribute tropical flavor and that distinctive chewy texture
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare Your Workspace
Preheat your oven to 325 degrees F and thoroughly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish, making sure to get into the corners where bars tend to stick.
Make the Crust
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. The proper incorporation of air here helps create a tender crust. Add the flour and salt, mixing until the dough comes together in moist crumbs that hold when pressed between your fingers.
Form the Base
Transfer your dough to the prepared baking dish and use your fingertips to press it into an even layer. Take your time here to ensure uniform thickness across the entire pan. The crust will seem quite thin, but this is correct as it provides just the right proportion to the topping.
Pre-bake the Crust
Place the crust in your preheated oven and bake for 13-15 minutes. You want it just barely turning golden at the edges. This partial baking ensures the crust will hold up under the wet topping without becoming soggy.
Prepare the Topping
While the crust bakes, combine the brown sugar, flour, and baking powder in a large bowl, whisking to eliminate any lumps. Add the eggs and vanilla, then beat for a full 1-2 minutes until the mixture becomes noticeably lighter and somewhat airy. This incorporates crucial air that gives the topping its texture. Gently fold in the coconut and nuts until evenly distributed.
Assemble and Bake
When the crust comes out of the oven, immediately pour the topping mixture over it, using a spatula to spread it evenly to the edges. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Look for golden edges and a top that seems set but still has a slight jiggle in the center.
Cool and Slice
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before attempting to slice. For cleanest cuts, refrigerate for an hour after cooling, then use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts.
The coconut is truly the star ingredient in these bars. My family has a running joke about how I once tried to "healthify" this recipe by reducing the sugar, resulting in what my husband lovingly called "fancy bird food." Lesson learned: some recipes deserve to remain decadently sweet!
Storage Secrets
These Tom Thumb Bars actually improve with a day of rest as the flavors meld together. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. To maintain freshness longer, refrigerate them for up to a week, though they rarely last that long in my household. If you do refrigerate them, allow them to come to room temperature before serving to experience their full flavor and texture.
Customization Options
While the classic recipe is perfect as is, you can easily adapt these bars to your preferences. Try using toasted hazelnuts for a more sophisticated flavor profile. White chocolate chips folded into the topping create a wonderful sweetness contrast. For a more tropical twist, substitute half a cup of the coconut with finely chopped dried pineapple or mango. During the holidays, a half teaspoon of cinnamon and a quarter teaspoon of nutmeg add wonderful warmth.
Serving Suggestions
These bars shine when served slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert. For an elegant presentation, dust them lightly with powdered sugar just before serving and arrange on a platter with fresh berries. They also make an indulgent addition to a brunch buffet alongside fresh fruit. For the ultimate treat, drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over cooled bars.
The History Behind the Name
The curious name "Tom Thumb Bars" dates back to the 1950s when compact, flavor-packed desserts became popular for entertaining. Named after the diminutive hero of English folklore, these bars pack outsized flavor into a modest package. Originally created as a way to use pantry staples during times when fresh ingredients were less available, they've stood the test of time because of their irresistible combination of textures and flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What makes Tom Thumb Bars unique?
These bars stand out for their combination of a buttery golden crust and a rich, chewy topping filled with coconut and nuts, offering a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
- → Can I substitute the walnuts or pecans?
Yes! You can replace walnuts or pecans with other nuts like almonds, or leave them out entirely for a nut-free option. Sunflower seeds or chocolate chips can also add a unique twist.
- → How should I store Tom Thumb Bars?
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week for a longer shelf life.
- → Can I freeze these dessert bars?
Absolutely! Wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow to thaw at room temperature before serving.
- → What’s the best way to serve these bars?
Tom Thumb Bars are delicious served as is, but you can elevate them further with a drizzle of melted chocolate, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.