Gluten-Free Almond Macaroon Brownie Bars
Fudgy brownie bars topped with a chewy coconut-almond macaroon layer and finished with chocolate drizzle. The combination creates a rich, textured dessert that balances dense chocolate base with light, sweet coconut topping. Perfect for potlucks, bake sales, or when you want an impressive dessert without starting from scratch. Using boxed brownie mix as the foundation makes this accessible while the homemade macaroon topping adds bakery-quality appeal.
Ingredients
- 1 box (16 oz) Betty Crocker Delights Supreme Original Brownie Mixhomemade brownie batter1:1vegetarian
use your favorite recipe
- water, vegetable oil and egg, called for on brownie mix box
- 1 ½ cups flaked coconut
- ½ cup slivered almonds, toasted
- ⅛ teaspoon almond extract
- ⅝ cup sweetened condensed milk, from 14-oz can, not evaporated
- ¼ cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- 1
Heat oven to 350°F and grease bottom of 9-inch square pan
- 2
Make brownie batter as directed on box and spread in pan
- 3
Bake 28 to 31 minutes until toothpick inserted 2 inches from side comes out almost clean
- 4
Mix all filling ingredients in medium bowl
- 5
Remove brownies from oven and carefully spoon filling evenly over brownies
- 6
Bake 15 to 18 minutes longer until light golden brown
- 7
Cool completely on cooling rack about 1 1/2 hours
- 8
Microwave chocolate chips 30 to 60 seconds, stirring halfway, until smooth
- 9
Spoon melted chocolate into plastic bag, cut corner tip and drizzle over top
- 10
Let stand about 2 hours until set, then cut into 16 squares
Tips
Toast almonds in dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant for best flavor
Use parchment paper for easier removal and cleaner cuts
Let bars cool completely before cutting to prevent the layers from separating
Good to Know
Store covered at room temperature for up to 5 days
Can be made 2 days ahead, store covered
Serve at room temperature, cut into squares
Common Mistakes
Don't overbake the brownie base to avoid dry bars
Let brownies cool completely before adding chocolate drizzle to prevent melting
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
Nut-Free Alternatives
General Alternatives
use your favorite recipe
FAQ
Can I use a different brownie mix brand?
Yes, any 16-18 oz brownie mix will work. Adjust baking time according to package directions for the base layer.
What if I don't have sweetened condensed milk?
You can make your own by simmering 1 cup whole milk with 2/3 cup sugar until thickened, about 15 minutes.
How long will these bars keep fresh?
Store covered at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week for firmer texture.