Lemon Coconut Neiman Marcus
Lemon Coconut Neiman Marcus Bars are bright, creamy layered dessert bars made with a buttery cake mix crust, tangy lemon cream filling, and sweet coconut topping. This easy Neiman Marcus-style lemon dessert recipe creates soft, rich bars perfect for spring gatherings, potlucks, and refreshing citrus desserts.
Ingredients
- Crust
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- ½ cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup sweetened shredded coconut
- Lemon Cream Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 2 large eggs
- 3 ½ cups powdered sugar
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- Topping
- ½ cup sweetened shredded coconut
- Powdered sugar for dusting optional
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, melted butter, egg, and shredded coconut. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to create the crust.
- In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add the eggs, powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. Beat until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
- Pour the lemon filling evenly over the crust layer.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded coconut evenly over the top.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes until the edges are lightly golden and the center is set.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan for about 1 hour before cutting.
- Dust with powdered sugar if desired and slice into squares.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to create a smooth filling.
- Do not overbake; the center should remain slightly soft when removed from the oven.
- Lemon zest enhances the citrus flavor and should not be skipped.
- Allow the bars to cool fully before slicing to help the layers set properly.