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Casey Janes' Bars
Casey Janes' Bars are a classic homemade dessert that brings a warm, chewy, nutty sweetness to any occasion. Combining brown sugar, coconut, and nuts in a buttery base, they’re a nostalgic treat from mid-century American kitchens. With their simple preparation and comforting flavor, they’re perfect for sharing at potlucks or family gatherings. The recipe’s handwritten format adds a touch of culinary history, preserving a beloved favorite in its most authentic form.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 9 bars
Calories 215 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • ¼ cup butter
  • 1 egg
  • ½ cup flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 1 cup coconut (shredded )
  • ½ cup nuts (chopped )

Instructions
 

Step 1: Preheat Oven

  • Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9" square pan.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

  • In a bowl, combine brown sugar and butter until smooth.

Step 3: Add Egg

  • Beat in the egg until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

  • In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, and salt.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir in coconut and nuts.

Step 6: Bake

  • Pour batter into prepared pan. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Cut

  • Allow to cool before cutting into bars.

Tips

  • Add ½ teaspoon vanilla extract for added aroma.
  • Replace nuts with pecans or walnuts for deeper flavor.
  • Toast the coconut lightly before mixing for extra richness.
  • Add 2–3 tablespoons chocolate chips for a sweeter variation.
  • Swap brown sugar for dark brown sugar to intensify caramel notes.
  • Add a pinch of cinnamon for a warm spice undertone.
  • For a chewier texture, slightly underbake by 2 to 3 minutes.
  • Drizzle cooled bars with melted chocolate or caramel.
  • Line the pan with parchment for easier removal.
  • Double the recipe and bake in a 9×13 pan for larger gatherings.

Nutrition

Calories: 215kcalCarbohydrates: 27gProtein: 2.5gFat: 11gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 95mgPotassium: 75mgFiber: 1.5gSugar: 22gVitamin A: 150IUCalcium: 35mgIron: 0.7mg
Keyword bars easy dessert, brown sugar frosting, coconut, coconut bars, handwritten recipe, heirloom recipe, homemade sweets, nostalgic baking, nuts, southern style bars, vintage recipe