Chocolate Coconut Squares

Name: Chocolate Coconut Squares
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut; 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk; 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; A pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Chocolate Coconut Squares because they combine two of my favorite flavors—rich chocolate and sweet coconut. Every time I whip up this delicious treat, my kitchen fills with the warm, inviting scent of cocoa and toasted coconut, making it impossible to resist. These squares are not only simple to make, but they also make a stunning presentation for gatherings. Join me in creating this easy dessert that is sure to impress everyone from family to friends.

Created by

Natalie Briggs

Last updated on 2026-01-10T12:16:08.826Z

When I first discovered the combination of chocolate and coconut, I knew I had to create a recipe that highlighted both. After several trials, I finally achieved the perfect balance, infusing rich, dark chocolate with luscious shredded coconut. The texture is delightful, with a slight chew from the coconut contrasted by the smoothness of the chocolate, making every bite irresistible.

One of my best tips is to use unsweetened shredded coconut for a more intense coconut flavor that isn’t overly sweet. This allows the chocolate to shine while still delivering that classic coconut taste we all love. Trust me, once you try these squares, you'll want to keep the recipe close!

        Reasons to Love These Squares
        Decadent chocolate meets chewy coconut in every bite
Quick and easy to make for any occasion
Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without feeling overly indulgent

      

Understanding Ingredient Roles

Each ingredient in the Chocolate Coconut Squares plays a pivotal role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor. The unsweetened shredded coconut adds a delightful chewiness and tropical essence, while the dark chocolate chips provide rich flavor and smoothness. Sweetened condensed milk acts as the binding agent, ensuring that the squares hold together perfectly without being overly rich. Cocoa powder enhances the chocolate flavor, while the pinch of salt balances the sweetness and intensifies the overall taste.

When choosing your chocolate chips, opt for high-quality dark chocolate containing at least 60% cocoa for a more robust flavor. The richness of the chocolate pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of the coconut. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, substitute with a non-dairy chocolate chip that meets your dietary needs without compromising on taste. This allows for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies to enjoy these sweet treats.

Perfecting Your Technique

Pay close attention when mixing the ingredients; ensure that the shredded coconut and chocolate chips are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. This not only guarantees consistent flavor in every square but also provides a balanced texture. If you notice that your mixture is too dry or crumbly, a small splash of milk can help bind the ingredients together without compromising the overall taste.

When baking, keep an eye on the squares during the last few minutes to prevent overbaking. The squares should be set around the edges but slightly soft in the center; they will firm up as they cool. If baked too long, the squares can become tough and lose that desirable chewy texture. I recommend setting a timer for 12 minutes initially and checking for doneness, making small adjustments as necessary.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

After cutting the squares, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerated for a longer shelf life. If you prefer to keep them longer, consider freezing the squares. Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and store them in a resealable freezer bag, where they can last for up to three months. Simply let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

For serving, feel free to get creative! These squares can be topped with a sprinkle of extra coconut or a drizzle of melted chocolate for an added touch of elegance. Pair them with fresh fruit for a refreshing contrast or serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience. They are also excellent crumbled over yogurt for a quick, tasty breakfast or snack.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started:

For the Chocolate Coconut Squares

1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
1 cup dark chocolate chips
1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of salt

Once you have your ingredients ready, you'll be amazed at how quickly these come together!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Chocolate Coconut Squares:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang to easily lift out the squares later.

Mix Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded coconut, dark chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until well combined and the chocolate chips are evenly distributed.

Bake the Mixture

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until set.

Cool and Cut

Allow the squares to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then lift them out using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares and enjoy!

These squares are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch of flavor, consider drizzling melted chocolate over the top when cutting them into squares or adding chopped nuts to the mixture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your Chocolate Coconut Squares are too crumbly, it may indicate that not enough sweetened condensed milk was used, or the mixture was not properly combined. Adding a touch more condensed milk can help bind the mixture. On the other hand, if they seem too soft, ensure they are adequately baked, as the texture will firm up upon cooling.

A common issue during the cooling process is sticking to the pan. Always line your baking dish with parchment paper, allowing for overhang, which helps with lifting the squares out neatly. If you skip this step, you may end up with broken squares, which, while still delicious, won't have the appealing presentation you're aiming for.

Variations to Explore

If you want to change things up, consider adding a tablespoon of espresso powder to the mixture for a mocha twist. The coffee flavor enhances the chocolate, creating a deeper, more robust taste that pairs beautifully with the coconut. Alternatively, add nuts such as chopped almonds or walnuts for crunch and extra nutrition.

For a festive touch, incorporate ingredients like dried cherries or cranberries into the mixture. These additions not only add a lovely burst of color but also enhance the flavor profile with their tangy sweetness. Experimenting with spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg can also elevate the overall taste and give a unique twist to classic chocolate and coconut flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use sweetened shredded coconut?

Yes, but it may make the squares sweeter than intended. For a balanced flavor, I recommend using unsweetened coconut.

→ How should I store the Chocolate Coconut Squares?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I substitute dark chocolate with milk chocolate?

Absolutely! Milk chocolate will give a creamier flavor, so feel free to use whatever chocolate you prefer.

→ What can I use instead of sweetened condensed milk?

You can try a dairy-free condensed milk alternative or make your own by simmering regular milk with sugar until thickened.