If you’re craving a treat that’s bursting with tropical charm yet simple enough to whip up on a whim, this Coconut Rum Extract Snow Squares Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine delightfully chewy squares that combine the creamy sweetness of condensed milk, the rich essence of coconut rum extract, and the snowy fluff of shredded coconut and powdered sugar. Each bite is a perfect balance of cool, sweet, and lightly boozy flavor that’s ideal for any occasion — from casual snacking to impressing guests at your next gathering. I can’t wait to share my love for this surprisingly easy and crowd-pleasing dessert with you!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward but absolutely essential to capture the true essence of the Coconut Rum Extract Snow Squares Recipe. Each one plays an important role, whether it’s adding lush flavor, creamy texture, or that snowy, snowy appearance that makes these squares so special.
- 2 teaspoons coconut rum extract: This gives your squares that signature tropical flavor without any actual alcohol, perfect for all ages.
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk: Provides creamy sweetness and helps bind the mixture perfectly.
- 1/2 cup melted butter: Adds richness and keeps the squares moist and tender.
- 2 cups shredded coconut: Gives the dessert its chewy texture and unmistakable coconut taste.
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and powders the mixture while ensuring that lovely snowy look.
- Vanilla extract: A splash enhances all the flavors and adds depth.
How to Make Coconut Rum Extract Snow Squares Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by greasing an 8×8 inch baking dish or lining it with parchment paper to make removing your snow squares a breeze later. This simple prep ensures you get clean, beautiful edges without any sticking, which makes serving a delight.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
Grab a medium bowl and combine 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk, 1/2 cup of melted butter, and 2 teaspoons of coconut rum extract. Whisk everything together until it becomes smooth and glossy. This dreamy mixture is the foundation of your squares’ luscious texture and unmistakably tropical flavor.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
Gradually stir in 2 cups of shredded coconut and 1 1/2 cups of powdered sugar. As you mix, you’ll notice the batter thicken and take on that snowy white color that makes these squares so irresistible. Keep stirring until everything is perfectly combined and has a thick, fudgy consistency.
Step 4: Spread in Pan
Pour the coconut batter into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly using a spatula. Press down gently to compact the mixture—this helps the squares hold together beautifully once chilled. You’ll love how even and pristine they look at this stage, setting the tone for the final product.
Step 5: Chill
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and pop it in the refrigerator for at least two hours. This chilling step lets the mixture firm up so your squares can be sliced cleanly and hold their shape nicely. Patience here rewards you with the best texture and the classic “snowy” feel.
Step 6: Cut into Squares
Once firm, gently lift your dessert out of the pan using the parchment paper if you used it. Slice into small, bite-sized squares or bars—whatever suits your fancy. The clean cuts showcase the delicate coconut texture and make each piece look like a little winter treat.
Step 7: Dust with Coconut
For an extra special touch, roll each square in additional shredded coconut to coat them just before serving. This gives them an enchanting snowy appearance and an added layer of chewy coconut goodness. It’s a simple step that elevates your Coconut Rum Extract Snow Squares Recipe into a masterpiece.
How to Serve Coconut Rum Extract Snow Squares Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes brings an elegant finish to your squares. You can also add a tiny drizzle of white chocolate or a few flakes of edible gold leaf if you want to impress guests with a glamorous tropical treat.
Side Dishes
Pair these snow squares with fresh tropical fruit like pineapple or mango slices for a vibrant contrast. A cup of lightly brewed tea or a cold glass of coconut water complements the richness perfectly, making any snack time feel like a mini tropical getaway.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking the squares on a pretty cake stand for a festive dessert table or serve them in petite paper liners for easy individual portions. Wrapping a few in parchment squares tied with twine makes for charming edible gifts that show just how much you care.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any extras in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and prevent them from drying out. They’ll stay delicious for up to one week and are easy to grab for a quick snack or dessert at a moment’s notice.
Freezing
If you want to keep these snow squares for longer, freezing them works beautifully. Wrap individual squares in parchment paper and place them in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready for a treat, just thaw in the fridge overnight and enjoy the same chewy, luscious texture.
Reheating
These squares are best enjoyed chilled, so reheating is usually unnecessary. However, if you want to slightly soften them, a few seconds in the microwave or letting them sit at room temperature will revive their creamy consistency without melting the coconut too much.
FAQs
Can I use regular rum instead of coconut rum extract?
You can, but keep in mind that regular rum contains alcohol and may affect the texture and firmness of the squares. For the best flavor and chewy texture, coconut rum extract is the safer and more dessert-friendly choice.
Is there a vegan version of the Coconut Rum Extract Snow Squares Recipe?
Absolutely! Substitute sweetened condensed coconut milk for the regular condensed milk and use vegan butter. Just ensure your powdered sugar is vegan-friendly, and you’ll have a delicious plant-based alternative.
How long do these snow squares last?
Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, these coconut rum extract snow squares will stay fresh and tasty for up to one week. They might lose some of their initial firmness but will still be delightful.
Can I make these squares gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free since it doesn’t use any flour or gluten-containing ingredients. Just double-check your powdered sugar for cross-contamination if you have a severe gluten allergy.
Why is the coconut rum extract important in this recipe?
The coconut rum extract adds that unmistakable tropical flair and depth to the snow squares, giving them a unique flavor that vanilla alone can’t achieve. It’s the magic ingredient that transforms a simple coconut treat into a memorable dessert.
Final Thoughts
I hope you feel inspired to give this Coconut Rum Extract Snow Squares Recipe a try because it truly brings a little sunshine to your kitchen with every bite. It’s an easy, no-bake dessert that looks impressive but takes minimal effort, making it a total winner for any occasion. Once you taste these luscious, chewy squares, I bet they’ll become one of your go-to treats too. Enjoy creating and sharing this tropical delight with your loved ones!
Print
Coconut Rum Extract Snow Squares Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Coconut Rum Extract Snow Squares are a delightful no-bake treat combining the tropical flavor of shredded coconut with a hint of coconut rum extract. Sweetened condensed milk and powdered sugar create a creamy, rich base that sets into perfect little squares after chilling. Ideal for a quick dessert or festive snack, they require just 15 minutes of prep and no cooking, making them simple and delicious.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons coconut rum extract
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 2 cups shredded coconut
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- Vanilla extract (optional, to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare Your Pan: Grease an 8×8 inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the squares once set.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup sweetened condensed milk, 1/2 cup melted butter, and 2 teaspoons coconut rum extract until smooth and well combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually stir in 2 cups shredded coconut and 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, mixing thoroughly until the mixture forms a thick, cohesive batter.
- Spread in Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly with a spatula and pressing down gently to compact the mixture.
- Chill: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm enough to cut into squares.
- Cut into Squares: Once chilled, lift the mixture out of the pan using the parchment paper if used, and cut into small squares or bars as desired.
- Optional Coconut Dusting: For an extra touch, roll the squares in additional shredded coconut before serving to enhance the coconut flavor and add texture.
Notes
- You can substitute the coconut rum extract with a non-alcoholic coconut flavoring if preferred.
- Ensure the mixture is well chilled before cutting to prevent crumbling.
- Store the squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- For a less sweet version, reduce the powdered sugar slightly.
- Adding a splash of vanilla extract can add depth to the flavor if desired.
