Guava Jam Coconut Macadamia Oat Bars

Escape to a tropical paradise with these Guava Jam Bars featuring a Coconut Macadamia Oat Crumble. These buttery, tropical-inspired dessert bars are layered with sweet, vibrant guava jam and topped with a golden, crunchy crumble made from oats, shredded coconut, and roasted macadamia nuts. It is the perfect balance of chewy texture and exotic fruit flavor.

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This fusion dessert blends the comfort of a classic Western oat bar with the bold, bright flavors of tropical ingredients. The addition of lime juice to the guava filling provides just enough acidity to balance the sweetness, while the toasted macadamias add a rich, buttery depth that keeps you coming back for more.

Ingredients

• Crust and Crumble
• 1 cup (130 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (100 g) old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup (65 g) packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup (40 g) unsweetened shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup (60 g) roasted macadamia nuts, roughly chopped
• Filling
• 1 cup (320 g) guava jam or guava paste, softened
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

Instructions

Step 1

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch (20 cm) square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.

Step 2

In a large bowl, combine the flour, oats, granulated sugar, brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon. Stir in melted butter until the mixture forms moist crumbles. Add coconut and chopped macadamia nuts, mixing to combine.

Step 3

Reserve 1 cup of the mixture for the topping. Press the remaining mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.

Step 4

In a small bowl, stir together guava jam and lime juice until smooth. Spread evenly over the crust.

Step 5

Sprinkle the reserved crumble mixture evenly over the jam layer.

Step 6

Bake for 30–35 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and the jam is bubbling at the edges.

Step 7

Let cool completely in the pan. Lift out using the parchment overhang and cut into 16 bars.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the best flavor, lightly toast the shredded coconut and macadamia nuts in a dry pan over medium heat until fragrant before adding them to the crumble. If you are using guava paste instead of jam, heat it briefly with the lime juice in the microwave or on the stovetop to soften it into a spreadable consistency.

Varianten und Anpassungen

If guava jam is unavailable, you can substitute it with apricot or raspberry jam for a different but equally delicious fruit profile. To make this recipe gluten-free, use a certified gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and ensure your oats are labeled gluten-free.

Serviervorschläge

Serve these bars at room temperature for a chewy snack, or pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly decadent dessert experience. They also pair wonderfully with a fresh cup of coffee or herbal tea in the afternoon.

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Whether you're hosting a brunch or looking for a unique lunchbox treat, these Guava Jam Bars provide a delightful burst of tropical sunshine in every bite. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different jam flavor?

Yes, apricot or raspberry jam work beautifully as substitutes. Choose something with a similar consistency and sweetness level.

→ Should I toast the coconut and macadamias first?

While not required, lightly toasting the coconut and macadamia nuts before adding them enhances their natural flavor and adds deeper richness to the crumble topping.

→ How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The bars are ready when the crumble topping is golden brown and you see the jam bubbling gently at the edges. The center should feel set but slightly soft.

→ Why add lime juice to the guava jam?

Fresh lime juice cuts through the sweetness of the guava and adds brightness that balances the rich butter, coconut, and macadamia flavors.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

These bars keep well for up to 3 days at room temperature when stored in an airtight container. They also freeze beautifully for up to 2 months.

→ What's the best way to cut clean bars?

Let the bars cool completely in the pan before removing. Use the parchment overhang to lift them out, then cut with a sharp knife, wiping the blade clean between cuts.