First Step: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Pan Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9 or 10×10 inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease it lightly to prevent sticking. This step sets the foundation for easy removal and cleanup.

Second Step: Make the Almond Crust In a large mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter with 1/2 cup brown sugar. Stir thoroughly to dissolve any lumps. Add 1 cup all-purpose flour and 1/2 teaspoon coconut extract if using. Mix until a crumbly dough forms. Press this mixture evenly into the prepared pan, creating a solid almond crust base. The crust provides a nutty, buttery texture that holds the bars together.

Third Step: Bake the Almond Crust Bake the crust in your preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until it’s set and just starting to brown slightly around the edges. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly while you prepare the filling. Baking the crust first ensures it stays firm under the wet filling and prevents sogginess.

Fourth Step: Prepare the Filling Rinse and gently dry the fresh raspberries. In a separate bowl, beat 2 large eggs. Stir in 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut, 1/3 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 2 teaspoons almond extract, and 1 tablespoon sliced almonds. Mix well until fully combined. Fold in the raspberries carefully to avoid breaking them, preserving their shape and bright appearance.

Fifth Step: Assemble the Bars Spread the raspberry coconut filling evenly over the warm, slightly cooled almond crust. Distribute 1 cup of sweetened shredded coconut evenly on top of the filling for a textured, sweet finish.

Sixth Step: Bake the Bars Place the pan back in the oven and bake for 25 to 27 minutes, or until the coconut topping turns lightly golden and the filling is just set. The bars should have a firm but slightly soft center when done.

Final Step: Cool and Slice Allow the bars to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing into 12 equal pieces. Cooling is key to achieving clean cuts and allowing the flavors to meld. Serve bars as a refreshing dessert, breakfast treat, or an afternoon snack. Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.