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This chocolate coconut cookie bar recipe transforms simple ingredients into an irresistible layered dessert that satisfies both chocolate and coconut cravings at once. The combination of buttery graham cracker crust, chewy coconut filling, and rich chocolate topping creates the perfect balance of textures and flavors that's impossible to resist.
I first made these bars for a neighborhood potluck where they disappeared within minutes. Since then, they've become my go-to recipe whenever I need a foolproof dessert that pleases everyone from kids to grandparents.
Ingredients
- Graham crackers: Provide the perfect buttery base and subtle honey flavor
- Butter: Binds the crust and adds richness look for unsalted to control salt levels
- Sweetened condensed milk: Creates that distinctive gooey layer and helps the coconut set properly
- Shredded coconut: Gives the signature chewy texture and tropical flavor choose sweetened for best results
- Chocolate chips: Melt beautifully for the topping semisweet offers the perfect balance of sweetness
- Vegetable oil: Helps create a smooth chocolate layer that cuts cleanly without cracking
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Base:
- Process graham crackers until they reach fine crumb consistency. This usually takes about 30 seconds of continuous processing. Add the melted butter and sugar to create a mixture that holds together when pressed between your fingers. The sugar not only sweetens but helps bind the crust. Press firmly into your pan to create a solid foundation.
- Create the Perfect Crust:
- Line your pan completely with parchment paper allowing some overhang for easy removal later. Use the bottom of a measuring cup to press the crumbs firmly and evenly across the entire surface including corners. A uniform thickness ensures even baking and prevents burnt spots.
- Build the Coconut Layer:
- Distribute the coconut evenly across the baked crust making sure to reach all edges. Pour the sweetened condensed milk slowly starting from the center and working outward. The milk will naturally spread as it bakes but help it along with a spatula to ensure even coverage.
- Perfect the Chocolate Topping:
- When melting chocolate use short intervals and stir thoroughly between each heating. The residual heat continues melting the chocolate after removing from the microwave. Adding the vegetable oil creates a silky texture that spreads easily and prevents the chocolate from becoming too hard or brittle when cooled.
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The sweetened condensed milk is truly the magic ingredient in this recipe. The first time I made these bars I watched in amazement as it transformed the loose coconut into a cohesive filling that caramelized slightly at the edges. My daughter now requests these every year for her birthday instead of traditional cake.
Make-Ahead Options
These bars actually improve with time as the flavors meld together. Make them up to three days ahead and store at room temperature in an airtight container. The chocolate will retain its shine and the coconut layer becomes even more flavorful. For best results cut just before serving.
Smart Substitutions
The recipe works wonderfully with variations. Try gingersnaps or chocolate wafers instead of graham crackers for a different flavor profile. Replace up to half the coconut with chopped dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for a fruity twist. Dark chocolate or white chocolate can be substituted for the semisweet chips depending on your preference.
Serving Suggestions
For an elegant dessert plate each bar with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries. When serving at parties cut into smaller bite-size pieces and arrange on a tiered platter garnished with mint leaves. These also pair wonderfully with coffee especially a dark roast that complements the sweetness of the bars.
The History Behind the Bars
These treats are a modern twist on traditional Hello Dolly or Seven Layer Bars that became popular in American baking during the 1960s. The original recipes appeared on condensed milk can labels and spread through community cookbooks. This streamlined version focuses on the most beloved elements chocolate and coconut while maintaining the beloved textural contrast of the original.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I ensure the layers stay intact?
Allow the bars to fully cool before cutting, as this helps the layers set and ensures clean edges.
- → Can I substitute the graham crackers?
Yes, you can use digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or pre-made cookie crumbs as alternatives.
- → How should I melt the chocolate?
Microwave the chocolate chips with vegetable oil in 20-30 second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
- → Are there nut-free options?
Simply omit the optional chopped almonds or walnuts to make these bars nut-free.
- → How long do these bars keep?
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.