Coconut Chews
Coconut Chews are a delightful combination of buttery, chewy goodness topped with a rich, fruity icing. The blend of flaked coconut and chopped walnuts adds texture and flavor, making these bars a perfect treat for gatherings or a sweet snack at home. They appeal to coconut lovers and anyone with a sweet tooth.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oven to 350°.
- Cream shortening and confectioners sugar.
- Blend in flour.
- Press mixture in bottom of ungreased baking pan (13 x 9 x 2-inches).
- Bake for 12 to 15 minutes.
- Mix remaining ingredients; spread over hot, baked layer.
- Bake 20 minutes longer.
- While warm, spread with Orange-Lemon Icing.
- Cool.
- Cut into bars about 3 x 1-inch.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider substituting half of the shortening with unsweetened applesauce or Greek yogurt. If you don't have walnuts, pecans or almonds work well. To enhance the coconut flavor, use toasted coconut flakes. When mixing the batter, avoid over-mixing to keep the bars tender. Make sure your baking pan is truly ungreased to ensure easy removal after baking.
Serving Suggestions
These Coconut Chews make a delightful dessert on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Serve them alongside a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon treat. For special occasions, consider adding a side of fresh fruit or a light drizzle of chocolate sauce for extra flair.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Coconut Chews in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, simply place individual bars in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or enjoy them cold straight from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Coconut Chews contains roughly 178 calories, with 0g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 13g 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 flour in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or almond flour, but the texture may vary. If using almond flour, reduce the amount slightly and add an extra egg to help bind the ingredients together.
How can I make these bars more flavorful?
Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm spice note. Additionally, incorporating dried fruits like cranberries or apricots can provide a nice contrast to the coconut and nuts.
What can I use instead of the Orange-Lemon Icing?
If you prefer a different icing, a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk or a chocolate ganache would work wonderfully. For a healthier option, a light dusting of powdered sugar can also enhance the bars without overwhelming their flavor.
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).