Chewy Coconut Bars Recipe

There’s something irresistible about the combination of nutty brown sugar, creamy butter, and chewy flakes of coconut, all coming together in these Chewy Coconut Bars. This recipe is the kind you keep in your pocket for parties, potlucks, or weekends when the craving for something sweet and satisfying strikes. Each bite is perfectly tender, with the right balance of gooey center and crisp golden edges. If coconut desserts ever called your name, these bars might just become your next kitchen obsession!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s take a quick look at what makes these bars genuinely special. Every ingredient plays a key role: from rich butter for that melt-in-your-mouth texture, to sweetened coconut for that signature chew. This is a great recipe for when you want maximum flavor with minimal fuss.

• Unsalted butter (melted): Melted butter delivers unbeatable moisture and a decadent base for the chewy texture.
• Packed brown sugar: Adds warmth, depth, and a classic caramel-like sweetness that pairs perfectly with coconut.
• Large eggs: Eggs bring the batter together, lending structure and ensuring each bar is perfectly soft.
• Vanilla extract: A little vanilla gives these bars a subtle aromatic lift and enhances the overall flavor.
• Salt: Just a pinch brings all the sweet elements together and balances every bite.
• All-purpose flour: Provides just enough structure so each square stays together without losing its chewiness.
• Shredded sweetened coconut: The star of the show! These generous flakes guarantee an ultra-chewy, coconutty finish.

How to Make Chewy Coconut Bars

Step 1: Prep the Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. Lining the pan not only makes cleanup effortless but also lets you lift the baked bars out in one piece for neat slicing.

Step 2: Combine Butter and Brown Sugar

In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter and packed brown sugar until the mixture is glossy and smooth. This step sets the stage for the bars’ rich, caramel notes and helps achieve that signature chewiness.

Step 3: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, along with the vanilla extract. Mix until everything looks creamy and fully blended. The eggs ensure the bars bake up tender and hold together perfectly after slicing.

Step 4: Stir in the Dry Ingredients

Gently stir in the salt and flour until just incorporated. Over-mixing can make the bars tough, so blend only until you no longer see dry streaks of flour. This preserves their delicate, bakery-style texture.

Step 5: Fold in the Coconut

Finally, fold in the shredded sweetened coconut. The batter will be thick and sticky but that’s exactly what you want! If you feel adventurous, now’s the time to add any optional extras like chopped nuts or mini chocolate chips.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Spread the batter evenly into your prepared pan, smoothing the top. Slide it into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the surface is golden and the center has set. It’s okay if the bars look slightly soft in the middle—they’ll firm up as they cool.

Step 7: Cool and Slice

Let the Chewy Coconut Bars cool completely in the pan. This patience pays off: cutting them too soon could lead to a crumbly mess, but waiting yields beautiful, clean-cut squares ready for sharing (if you’re in the mood to share!).

How to Serve Chewy Coconut Bars

Garnishes

A sprinkle of toasted coconut on top before serving adds extra visual appeal and a satisfying crunch. A light dusting of powdered sugar is also lovely, especially if you want a snow-dusted effect for the holidays. For special occasions, a drizzle of melted chocolate creates a decadent twist that coconut fans will rave about.

Side Dishes

While Chewy Coconut Bars are a treat on their own, they pair wonderfully with fresh fruit like juicy mango slices, pineapple, or even a handful of tart raspberries. For a more indulgent treat, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream, or with a hot mug of coffee or tea for a cozy dessert break.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re looking to impress, cut the bars into small bite-sized squares and arrange them on a platter with alternating pieces of dark chocolate and dried tropical fruit. For bake sale or picnic fun, wrap individual bars in parchment and tie with rustic twine for a sweet grab-and-go presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cool, place any extra Chewy Coconut Bars in an airtight container. They’ll keep their tenderness for up to four days at room temperature, and you’ll love how the coconut flavor deepens as they sit.

Freezing

Want to savor these treats longer? Layer bars between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. They freeze perfectly for up to two months—just thaw at room temperature before serving for a just-baked taste anytime.

Reheating

If you adore warm desserts, pop a bar or two in the microwave for 5 to 10 seconds. This gentle reheating brings out an extra-soft texture and enhances that fresh-from-the-oven aroma without drying them out.

FAQs

Can I use unsweetened coconut instead of sweetened?

Yes, you can use unsweetened shredded coconut if you prefer a less sweet treat. The texture will remain chewy, but you may wish to add an extra tablespoon or two of brown sugar to balance the flavors.

How do I know when the bars are fully baked?

The top should look golden and set, while the center should no longer jiggle. A toothpick inserted in the middle should come out with a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter.

Can I double this recipe for a crowd?

Absolutely! Just double all ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Watch the baking time and start checking for doneness around 30 minutes.

What are some other mix-ins for Chewy Coconut Bars?

Aside from chocolate chips and nuts, try stirring in dried cranberries, white chocolate chunks, or even a pinch of cinnamon for delicious variety.

Are Chewy Coconut Bars gluten-free?

This recipe isn’t gluten-free as written, but you can substitute a 1-for-1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. The results should still be deliciously chewy and satisfying!

Final Thoughts

Once you’ve made your first batch of Chewy Coconut Bars, there’s a good chance they’ll earn a permanent spot in your dessert rotation. They’re quick, crowd-pleasing, and full of cozy flavor—what’s not to love? Give them a try and share the coconutty joy with your favorite people!

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