Mango Coconut Oat Shortbread Bars

Name: Mango Coconut Oat Shortbread Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Tropical
Ingredients: 1 cup rolled oats; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/3 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup diced fresh mango; 1/2 cup shredded coconut; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Recipe By:

Natalia

Posted:

November 7, 2025

Updated:

November 7, 2025

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Mango Coconut Oat Shortbread Bars are a delightful treat that combines the tropical flavors of mango and coconut with a buttery oat base. These bars are perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to elegant dessert tables. Their unique blend of textures and flavors makes them stand out, ensuring that each bite is both satisfying and memorable. Whether you enjoy them as a snack or serve them at a party, these shortbread bars are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip up these delicious bars in no time.
Flavorful Combination: The mix of mango and coconut creates a tropical taste that delights your palate.
Versatile Treat: Perfect for picnics, parties, or just an afternoon snack, these bars fit any occasion.
Healthy Twist: Made with oats, they offer a healthier alternative to traditional desserts without sacrificing flavor.
Make Ahead Option: These bars can be prepared in advance, making them great for meal prep or last-minute gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To make Mango Coconut Oat Shortbread Bars successfully, having the right tools will make the process smoother. Here’s what you need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

Food processor
Mixing bowl
Baking pan
Parchment paper
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Food processor: Speeds up the mixing process, ensuring ingredients blend evenly for the best texture.
Baking pan: A sturdy pan ensures even baking and easy removal of the bars once they cool.
Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless, allowing you to focus on enjoying your treats.

Ingredients

For the Base

1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/3 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Filling

1 cup diced fresh mango
1/2 cup shredded coconut
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Mango Coconut Oat Shortbread Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Mango Coconut Oat Shortbread Bars bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper. Leave some overhang on the sides for easy removal after baking.

Step 3: Make the Base Mixture

In a food processor, combine rolled oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, and softened butter. Blend until it resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 4: Press into Pan

Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking pan. Use your fingers or a spatula to press it firmly into an even layer.

Step 5: Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, mix diced mango, shredded coconut, honey, and vanilla extract until well combined. Spread this mixture evenly over the base layer in the pan.

Step 6: Bake

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 25–30 minutes or until golden brown on top.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before lifting out using parchment overhang. Let it cool completely on a wire rack before cutting into bars. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired before serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Mango Coconut Oat Shortbread Bars

Mango Coconut Oat Shortbread Bars are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Here are some creative ways to serve them that will enhance their flavor and presentation.

With Fresh Fruit

Sliced Mango – Pair the bars with fresh mango slices for a tropical burst of flavor.
Berries – Serve alongside strawberries or blueberries for a colorful and refreshing contrast.

With Whipped Cream

Sweetened Whipped Cream – A dollop of whipped cream adds creaminess and balances the sweetness of the bars.
Coconut Whipped Cream – Enhance the coconut flavor by using coconut-infused whipped cream.

As a Dessert Platter

Cheese Plate – Combine with cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a savory-sweet pairing.
Chocolate Dipping Sauce – Offer melted chocolate for dipping, making each bite indulgent and rich.

How to Perfect Mango Coconut Oat Shortbread Bars

To elevate your Mango Coconut Oat Shortbread Bars, consider these simple yet effective tips.

Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh mango and coconut will greatly enhance the flavors.
Chill Before Cutting – Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing to achieve clean cuts.
Adjust Sweetness – Taste the mixture before baking and adjust sugar levels according to your preference.
Experiment with Toppings – Try adding nuts or seeds on top before baking for added texture.
Store Correctly – Keep the bars in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Mango Coconut Oat Shortbread Bars

Pairing side dishes with your Mango Coconut Oat Shortbread Bars can create a balanced meal. Here are some suggestions that complement their flavors beautifully.

Tropical Fruit Salad – A mix of pineapple, kiwi, and passionfruit adds brightness to your plate.
Coconut Rice – This subtly sweet side dish enhances the coconut notes in the bars.
Grilled Chicken Skewers – The savory chicken contrasts nicely with the sweet bars, creating a satisfying meal.
Mango Salsa – This fresh salsa can be served on the side for an extra burst of mango flavor.
Green Salad – A light salad with citrus dressing can refresh your palate between bites of the sweet bars.
Herbed Quinoa – The nutty flavor of quinoa pairs well with the tropical elements of the dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mango Coconut Oat Shortbread Bars, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your baking experience. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:

Using stale ingredients: Always check the freshness of your oats and coconut. Stale ingredients can affect the flavor and texture of your bars.
Not measuring accurately: Precision is key in baking. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups to ensure you have the right amounts of each ingredient for your Mango Coconut Oat Shortbread Bars.
Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough bars. Mix just until combined for a tender texture.
Skipping chilling time: Chilling the dough helps it hold its shape during baking. Don’t skip this step if you want perfectly formed bars.
Ignoring oven temperature: Always preheat your oven to the correct temperature. An uncalibrated oven can lead to uneven baking, affecting the final product.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store Mango Coconut Oat Shortbread Bars in an airtight container.
They can last up to one week in the refrigerator.
Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Mango Coconut Oat Shortbread Bars

Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap.
Store them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to three months.
Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Mango Coconut Oat Shortbread Bars

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place bars on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
Microwave: Heat bars on a microwave-safe plate for 15-20 seconds. Check frequently to avoid overheating.
Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat. Cover it with a lid and warm for about 5 minutes, checking often.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Mango Coconut Oat Shortbread Bars:

Can I use different fruits in these bars?

Yes! You can substitute mango with other fruits like peaches or blueberries, depending on your preference.

How do I ensure my Mango Coconut Oat Shortbread Bars are gluten-free?

Use certified gluten-free oats and ensure all other ingredients are free from gluten contamination.

Can I make these bars vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative for delicious vegan Mango Coconut Oat Shortbread Bars.

How do I add more flavor to my shortbread bars?

Consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or even vanilla extract, for an extra flavor boost in your Mango Coconut Oat Shortbread Bars.

Final Thoughts

Mango Coconut Oat Shortbread Bars are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding nuts or using different fruits based on what you have at home. Whether enjoyed as a snack or dessert, these bars will surely satisfy your cravings. Try them out and explore the endless possibilities!