Chewy Coconut Bars(You Can'T Eat Just One!)
Chewy coconut bars combine rich chocolate, toasted walnuts, and shredded coconut for a delightful treat that satisfies sweet cravings and suits all cookie lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 13 x 9-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, cream together the shortening, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually blend in the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix until well combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips, chopped walnuts, and shredded coconut.
- Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking pan.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until golden around the edges.
- Let cool before cutting into 18 bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider using coconut oil instead of shortening for a deeper coconut flavor. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts or substitute with sunflower seeds. Ensure the chocolate chips are semi-sweet to balance the sweetness of the brown sugar. For added texture, try using sweetened shredded coconut instead of unsweetened.
Serving Suggestions
These chewy coconut bars are perfect for a snack or dessert. Serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast, or pair with a cup of coffee for a cozy treat. They also make a great addition to a dessert table alongside Lori'S Caramel Apple Snack or Evelyn'S Cheese Cake.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to two weeks or freeze individually wrapped bars for up to three months. To reheat, microwave for a few seconds to restore their chewy texture or enjoy them cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chewy Coconut Bars(You Can'T Eat Just One!) contains roughly 344 calories, with 4g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 502mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
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 fresh coconut instead of shredded coconut?
Yes, you can use fresh coconut, but be sure to finely chop it and watch the moisture content, as it may alter the texture. Be prepared for a slightly different flavor and chewiness compared to dried shredded coconut.
What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?
You can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce. To replace one egg, combine one tablespoon of flaxseed meal with three tablespoons of water, let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens, or use 1/4 cup of applesauce for each egg.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake, as this can lead to dry bars.
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).