Description
Delicious Chocolate Coconut Bars featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, a rich and gooey chocolate center, and a golden, flaky coconut topping. This easy-to-make dessert comes together in just 10 minutes of prep and bakes to perfection in under 30 minutes, perfect for a sweet treat or special occasion.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 ½ cup fine graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup + 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- ¾ teaspoon fine sea salt, separated
Filling and Topping
- 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk (not evaporated milk)
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ¾ cup unsweetened coconut flakes
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease an 8″x8″ baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of bars.
- Make the Crust: In a small mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and ½ teaspoon of sea salt. Stir until well mixed, then press firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust.
- Add Condensed Milk and Salt: Pour the entire can of sweetened condensed milk evenly over the pressed crust. Sprinkle the remaining ¼ teaspoon of sea salt over the top to enhance the flavor balance.
- Top with Chocolate and Coconut: Evenly scatter the semi-sweet chocolate chips across the condensed milk layer followed by the unsweetened coconut flakes. Use the tines of a fork to gently press the chocolate and coconut into the condensed milk to help them adhere during baking.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 28–30 minutes, or until the coconut flakes are golden brown and the filling is set around the edges.
- Cool and Slice: Remove from the oven and run a sharp knife along the edges for easier removal. Allow the bars to cool completely for 30 minutes to 1 hour to firm up. Cut into 12 bars or 16 smaller squares and serve.
Notes
- The crust may taste salty before baking—this balances out after baking.
- Ensure the condensed milk is sweetened condensed milk, not evaporated milk for the correct sweetness and texture.
- Allow bars to cool fully before slicing to prevent crumbling.
- Use a sharp knife and wipe between cuts for clean slices.
