Recipe: Hawaiian Macademia Coconut Squares

Hawaiian Macademia Coconut Squares: makes 4 doz.

1 cup butter
2 cups packed brown sugar (divided)
1 tablespoon instant coffee powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (divided)
1/2 teaspoon salt (divided)
2 cups all-purpose flour

3 eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups flaked coconut
2 cups chopped and toasted macadamia nuts


1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (170 degrees C). Grease a 9 X 13 inch baking pan; set aside.

2. In a large mixing bowl, beat butter, 1 cup brown sugar, instant coffee powder, 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon salt until light and fluffy.

3. Stir in flour 1/2 cup at a time, blending well after each addition. Spread evenly in prepared pan.

4. Bake 20 minutes. Cool in pan on rack 15 minutes.

5. In a large bowl, beat eggs and vanilla with remaining 1 cup brown sugar, 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Stir in coconut and macadamias.

6. Spread evenly over cooled baked layer. Bake 40 to 50 minutes, or until golden brown and firm to the touch.

7. Use a knife to loosen cookies around edges while warm. Cool completely in pan on rack. Cut into 48 (about 1 1/2 inch) squares, cutting 6 strips one way and 8 strips the other way. Store in an airtight container at room temperature 1 week; freeze for longer storage.