Step 1: Preheat the Oven - Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.
Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan - Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan with butter or line it with parchment paper.
Step 3: Make the Cookie Base - In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, 3/4 cup brown sugar, and 1/2 cup granulated sugar. Mix well, then add egg yolks and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients - In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, corn starch, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
Step 5: Fold in the Goodies - Gently fold in chocolate chips, shredded coconut, and optional pecans.
Step 6: Spread in the Pan - Pour the cookie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading evenly.
Step 7: Bake the Cookie Base - Bake for 20-25 minutes or until edges are golden and a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool slightly.
Step 8: Prepare the Meringue Topping - In a clean bowl, beat egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add 1 cup of brown sugar, beating until stiff peaks form.
Step 9: Spread the Meringue - Spread meringue evenly over the cookie base after it has cooled for about 10 minutes.
Step 10: Bake Again - Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until meringue is lightly golden.
Step 11: Cool and Cut - Allow bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.
