Tom Thumb Bars
Tom Thumb Bars
Tom Thumb Bars are a beloved old-fashioned dessert made with two delicious layers. The base is a tender, buttery brown sugar crust, topped with a rich coconut and nut filling that bakes into a golden, chewy layer. Easy to prepare and full of homemade flavor, these bars are perfect for holidays, bake sales, potlucks, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee.
Ingredients
Crust
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Softened butter | 2/3 cup |
| Dark brown sugar | 2/3 cup |
| All-purpose flour | 1¼ cups |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
Topping
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Packed dark brown sugar | 1 cup |
| All-purpose flour | 2 tablespoons |
| Baking powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Eggs | 3 |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Chopped walnuts or pecans | 1 cup |
| Sweetened shredded coconut | 1¾ cups |
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish
Heat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and set it aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Crust
Using a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter together with the brown sugar until the mixture is light and creamy.
Mix in the flour and salt until a soft dough comes together.
Press the dough firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
Step 3: Bake the Base
Place the pan in the oven and bake for 13 to 15 minutes, or until the edges begin to develop a light golden color.
Remove the crust from the oven and let it rest while you prepare the topping.
Step 4: Mix the Topping
In another bowl, stir together the brown sugar, flour, and baking powder.
Add the eggs and vanilla extract, then whisk until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
Fold in the chopped nuts and shredded coconut until evenly incorporated throughout the batter.
Step 5: Finish Baking
Spread the topping evenly over the warm crust.
Return the pan to the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is nicely golden.
Step 6: Cool and Slice
Allow the bars to cool completely in the baking pan before cutting.
Once cooled, slice into squares or rectangles and serve.
Helpful Tips
- Either pecans or walnuts make an excellent choice for this recipe.
- Wait until the bars have cooled completely before cutting to achieve neat, clean slices.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature, where they’ll stay fresh for several days.
These classic Tom Thumb Bars combine a buttery crust with a chewy coconut topping and crunchy nuts, creating a nostalgic dessert that’s always a hit at family gatherings, bake sales, holiday cookie platters, or anytime you’re craving a traditional homemade treat.
