Cocoa Chip Chews
Cocoa Chip Chews are rich, chewy bars packed with chocolate chips and coconut, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and enjoyed as a delightful treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Crumb together shortening, brown sugar, and 1 cup of flour and press into the bottom of an ungreased 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
- While baking, stir in with well beaten eggs the remaining 1/2 cup brown sugar, vanilla, 2 tablespoons flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Mix in coconut and chocolate chips.
- Spread the mixture over the baked crust.
- Bake for an additional 25 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool and cut into bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of espresso powder to the chocolate chip mixture. If you want a lighter texture, you can substitute half of the shortening with unsweetened applesauce. Make sure to beat the eggs well to incorporate air, which will help the bars rise nicely. For an extra crunch, try folding in some chopped nuts.
Serving Suggestions
These Cocoa Chip Chews are perfect as a sweet snack or dessert. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat that pairs beautifully with Jamie'S Chocolate Mousse Pie. They also make a great addition to any dessert platter for gatherings or holiday parties, alongside your favorite cookies and cakes.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cooled Cocoa Chip Chews in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, they can be frozen for up to three months. Just make sure to separate the layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cocoa Chip Chews contains roughly 310 calories, with 1g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is a good source of calcium (10% 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 different types of chocolate chips?
Absolutely! You can use semi-sweet, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate chips depending on your preference. Mixing different types can also create a more complex flavor profile. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness if you're using sweeter varieties.
What can I substitute for shortening?
If you're looking for a substitute, you can use an equal amount of unsalted butter or coconut oil. Both will provide a similar texture, though butter will add a richer flavor. For a healthier option, consider using mashed bananas or Greek yogurt, but keep in mind this may alter the taste.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The Cocoa Chip Chews are done when they are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake, as they can become dry. It's best to check on them a few minutes before the recommended baking time.
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).