Hawaiian Macadamia-Coconut Squares

Instant coffee powder adds intrigue to these rich, chewy bars.

Original recipe makes 4 dozen

Ingredients

1 cup butter
2 cups packed brown sugar
1 tablespoon instant coffee powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups all-purpose flour
3 eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups flaked coconut
2 cups chopped and toasted macadamia nuts

Directions

Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (170 degrees C). Grease a 9 X 13 inch baking pan; set aside.
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.
Stir in flour 1/2 cup at a time, blending well after each addition. Spread evenly in prepared pan.
Bake 20 minutes. Cool in pan on rack 15 minutes.
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.
Spread evenly over cooled baked layer. Bake 40 to 50 minutes, or until golden brown and firm to the touch.
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.