Chocolate Dipped Coconut Bars

Chocolate Dipped Coconut Bars are a luscious, indulgent treat that combines the tropical sweetness of shredded coconut with rich, smooth chocolate. These bars feature a chewy, moist coconut filling atop a buttery base, then finished with a glossy layer of chocolate, creating the perfect balance of textures and flavors.

Whether you’re making them for dessert, gifting them during the holidays, or just craving a sweet snack, these bars are a crowd-pleaser. The tropical coconut flavor pairs beautifully with the richness of chocolate, making each bite both comforting and irresistible.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s simple, yet incredibly decadent. The coconut filling is chewy and satisfying, with a natural sweetness that’s complemented perfectly by the chocolate coating. Unlike some desserts that are overly rich or heavy, these bars are balanced and easy to enjoy in small bites.

They’re also versatile — you can make them in a pan for sharing, cut them into bite-sized pieces for parties, or wrap individually as gifts. The recipe is straightforward enough for beginners yet yields professional-looking results every time.

Why This is a Must-Try Dessert

• Tropical and indulgent: Sweet coconut with luscious chocolate.
• Easy to make: Few ingredients, simple assembly.
• Perfect for any occasion: Holidays, parties, or a weekend treat.
• Make-ahead friendly: Great for prepping in advance.

If you love coconut and chocolate, this recipe is an absolute must-try.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 12–16 bars
• Calories: Approx. 250–300 calories per bar
• Course: Dessert / Snack
• Cuisine: American / Tropical Inspired

Ingredients

For the Base

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ tsp salt

For the Coconut Filling

• 2 ½ cups sweetened shredded coconut
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Topping

• 1 cup semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
• 1 tsp coconut oil or butter (optional, for smoothness)

Cooking Directions Overview

1. Preheat oven and prepare pan.
2. Make the buttery base and bake.
3. Prepare coconut filling and spread over cooled base.
4. Bake until coconut filling is set.
5. Melt chocolate and dip or drizzle over bars.
6. Chill until chocolate is firm, then slice.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.

Step 2: Make the Base

1. In a bowl, mix melted butter, sugar, flour, and salt until a crumbly dough forms.
2. Press evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
3. Bake for 10–12 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from oven and cool slightly.

Step 3: Prepare Coconut Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, combine shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract.
2. Spread evenly over the baked base.
3. Bake for an additional 12–15 minutes until the coconut is lightly golden on top. Remove from oven and let cool completely.

Step 4: Add Chocolate Topping

1. Melt chocolate chips with coconut oil or butter in a microwave or double boiler until smooth.
2. Pour chocolate over the cooled coconut layer and spread evenly with a spatula.
3. Optional: drizzle extra coconut on top for decoration.

Step 5: Chill and Slice

1. Refrigerate for 30–60 minutes until chocolate is set.
2. Lift bars from the pan using parchment overhang.
3. Slice into squares or rectangles.

How to Serve

• Serve chilled or at room temperature.
• Perfect with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk.
• Great for dessert plates, gift boxes, or potlucks.

Recipe Tips

• Press base firmly to avoid a crumbly bottom.
• Use sweetened coconut for best results; unsweetened can be used but add 1–2 tbsp sugar.
• Let bars cool completely before adding chocolate for a smooth topping.
• For extra shine, temper the chocolate slightly before topping.

Variations

• Dark Chocolate Coconut Bars: Use dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
• White Chocolate: Replace chocolate topping with white chocolate.
• Nutty Twist: Add chopped almonds, pecans, or macadamia nuts on top.
• Vegan Version: Use coconut condensed milk or a plant-based sweetened condensed milk alternative.
• Mini Bars: Bake in a mini muffin tin for bite-sized treats.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Freezer: Wrap bars individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Thawing: Bring to room temperature before serving, or enjoy chilled.

Special Equipment Needed

• 8×8-inch baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Spatula
• Microwave-safe bowl or double boiler for chocolate

FAQ

1. Can I use unsweetened coconut?
Yes, but add 1–2 tbsp sugar to the coconut filling for sweetness.

2. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely — they store well in the fridge or freezer.

3. Can I dip individual bars instead of pouring chocolate on top?
Yes — cut the bars first, then dip each piece into melted chocolate.

4. Can I use milk chocolate?
Yes, milk chocolate works well for a sweeter version.

Conclusion

Chocolate Dipped Coconut Bars are a perfect balance of chewy coconut, buttery base, and luscious chocolate, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. They are easy to make, visually appealing, and endlessly customizable, making them ideal for gifts, parties, or a sweet snack at home. Once you try them, these bars will quickly become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.