Chewy Coconut Bars
Chewy Coconut Bars are delightful sweet treats featuring a rich coconut flavor combined with crunchy walnuts and juicy raisins. Perfect for snack time or dessert, these bars are quick to make in the microwave and appeal to coconut lovers and those seeking a chewy, satisfying snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place margarine in a 1-cup glass measure; microwave on High (100%) for 1 minute, or until melted.
- Beat eggs in a medium bowl until light and fluffy.
- Add 18 packets of Equal, maple flavoring, flour, baking powder, and vanilla to the eggs; mix well.
- Add the melted margarine and blend thoroughly into the mixture.
- Stir in chopped walnuts, raisins, and flaked coconut.
- Pour the batter into an 8-inch square microwave-safe baking dish.
- Microwave on High for 6 to 8 minutes, checking after 6 minutes for doneness.
- Sprinkle with 1 packet of Equal on top of the bars after cooking.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into individual servings.
- Top the cooled bars with sliced maraschino cherries before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsweetened shredded coconut instead of flaked coconut. You can also substitute chopped pecans for walnuts if desired. If you want to reduce sugar further, use a sugar alternative that measures like sugar. Ensure to check consistency and taste as you mix in the Equal packets, as sweetness can vary between brands.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these chewy coconut bars with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. They pair well with a cup of coffee or tea. For a fun twist, try serving alongside Cheese Biscuits(Lo-Cal) for a savory-sweet contrast that guests will love.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover coconut bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place a bar in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore softness without drying them out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chewy Coconut Bars contains roughly 225 calories, with 3g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 17g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of sweetener instead of Equal?
Yes, you can substitute Equal with any other sugar alternative that measures similarly, like Stevia or Splenda. Just make sure to adjust the quantity according to the sweetness level of the replacement, as some may be sweeter than Equal.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make gluten-free coconut bars, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum for better texture, or add it separately if needed.
How can I enhance the flavor of these bars?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness. You can also mix in some chocolate chips or dried fruit like cranberries for added texture and flavor. Experimenting with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can add a warm, aromatic note as well.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).