Lemon Coconut Oeey Gooey Bars

By jolofson

The balance of flavors from the tart lemon and sweet coconut is amazing in these delicious bars!

Ingredients

• CRUST:
• 1 (1-pound) yellow cake mix
• 1 egg
• 1 stick unsalted butter, melted
• FILLING:
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 2 eggs, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1/4 teaspoon coconut extract
• 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 stick unsalted butter, melted
• TOPPING:
• 1/2 cup sweetened coconut
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 4 tbs melted butter
• 3/4 cup flour

Preparation

Step 1

Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray 9 x 13-inch pan with nonstick spray.

Mix the crust ingredients together and then press into the bottom of the 9 x 13-inch pan.

Cream the cream cheese and add the eggs, one at a time. Mix well then add the remaining filling ingredients. Pour over the crust.

For the topping, mix the sugars and coconut. Add the butter, then the flour. The topping will become crumbly. Turn onto wax or parchment paper and let sit and dry for 10 to 15 minutes. Sprinkle the crumbs on top of the filling.

Bake 35 to 40 minutes. Do not overbake or the center will not be gooey. Allow to cool, then cut into squares.