Have you ever had a dessert that feels like a hug? That’s exactly how these chewy coconut bars taste. With their perfectly gooey texture, rich coconut flavor, and a hint of buttery goodness, these bars are the kind of treat you’ll make once and crave forever. Whether you’re a coconut lover or simply in need of a quick dessert that wows, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.
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What Makes These Chewy Coconut Bars So Special?
If you’re still on the fence about trying these, let me share why this recipe has become a personal favorite:
- Incredibly Simple to Make – No fancy equipment or complicated steps here.
- Versatile Dessert – These bars can be enjoyed plain, dressed up with a drizzle of chocolate, or even paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Perfect Balance of Sweetness – They’re sweet but not overpowering, making them a crowd-pleaser.
- Ideal for Any Occasion – Potlucks, bake sales, or a quiet coffee break at home—these bars shine every time.
The taste? Think tropical sweetness meets buttery indulgence. The edges are lightly golden and crisp, while the centers are soft and chewy, with the shredded coconut adding a delightful texture in every bite.
Ingredients for Chewy Coconut Bars
Here’s what you’ll need to create these irresistible treats:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp almond extract (optional but adds depth)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
Tools You’ll Need
- 8×8-inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk and spatula
- Parchment paper
Ingredient Additions and Substitutions
Feel like customizing? Here are some ideas:
- Add chocolate chips for a coconut-chocolate combo.
- Swap out granulated sugar for brown sugar to add a caramel-like richness.
- Mix in chopped nuts, like almonds or macadamia nuts, for added crunch.
- Prefer unsweetened coconut? Go for it! Just add 2–3 tbsp of sugar to compensate.
How to Make Chewy Coconut Bars
Ready to bake? Let’s get started!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a bit of overhang for easy removal later.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) and whisk again until combined.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, stir together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just incorporated.
Step 4: Fold in the Coconut
Gently fold in the shredded coconut until it’s evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 5: Pour and Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Slice
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before using the parchment paper to lift them out. Slice into squares or rectangles and enjoy!
What to Serve with Chewy Coconut Bars
These bars are delicious on their own, but here are a few serving suggestions to take them up a notch:
- A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream.
- Drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce for a decadent twist.
- Pair them with a steaming cup of coffee or tea for the ultimate afternoon snack.
Tips for Perfect Coconut Bars
- Don’t overbake! The bars should look slightly underdone in the center when you pull them out of the oven. They’ll firm up as they cool.
- Use room-temperature eggs for a smoother batter.
- Toast the coconut lightly before folding it in if you want a nuttier flavor.
How to Store Chewy Coconut Bars
- Room Temperature: Keep them in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: Store for up to 1 week in an airtight container.
- Freezer: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use unsweetened coconut?
Absolutely! Just adjust the sugar by adding 2–3 extra tablespoons to maintain the sweetness level.
Can these be made gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour for the best results.
What’s the best way to toast coconut?
Spread the shredded coconut on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden.
Why You’ll Love Making These Bars
Chewy coconut bars are the kind of recipe that becomes a family staple. They’re quick, versatile, and bursting with flavor. Plus, the smell that fills your kitchen while they bake? Absolutely heavenly!
If you make these, I’d love to hear how they turn out! Leave a review below or share your photos on Pinterest—tag me so I can see your creations!
Love Coconut? Try These Recipes Next:
- Coconut Macaroons
- Coconut Cream Pie
- Coconut and Lime Cake
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 210
- Carbs: 25g
- Fat: 11g
- Protein: 2g
Happy baking, friends!