Coconut Chinese Chews
Coconut Chinese Chews are chewy, nutty confections packed with chopped dates and nuts, coated in shredded coconut for added sweetness and texture. Perfect for those who love a fruity, nutty treat with a tropical twist, these bites are ideal for snacking or sharing at gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix sugar, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
- Add flour, chopped dates, chopped nuts, and beaten eggs; mix well.
- Spread the mixture thin on a greased and floured pan.
- Bake at 375°F until done, ensuring edges do not become hard, approximately 15 minutes.
- Cut into 1-inch squares and roll each into ball shapes between your palms.
- Allow to cool, then ice each piece and roll thickly in shredded coconut.
Tips & Substitutions
For a chewier texture, consider using Medjool dates as they are softer and sweeter. You can substitute the nuts with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin for a nut-free version. If you want a richer flavor, add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or almond extract to the batter. Make sure to spread the mixture evenly in the pan to ensure uniform baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these coconut chews as a delightful snack or dessert at gatherings. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For an added treat, consider serving them alongside Almond Cream Chinese Dessert for a cohesive dessert experience. They are also great for lunchboxes or as a sweet treat after a meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store the coconut chews in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh longer, refrigerate them where they'll last for up to two weeks. To reheat, use a microwave for a few seconds until warm, or enjoy them at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Coconut Chinese Chews contains roughly 136 calories, with 2g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 6g 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 other types of dried fruit instead of dates?
Yes, you can substitute dates with other dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or apricots. Just ensure that the fruit is chopped into small pieces to maintain the texture of the chews. Each type of fruit will impart a different flavor, adding variety to your coconut chews.
What if I don't have shredded coconut?
If you don't have shredded coconut, you can use desiccated coconut, which is finer and will still provide a similar coconut flavor. Alternatively, you could skip the coconut altogether or roll the chews in crushed nuts or cocoa powder for a different twist.
Can these be made vegan?
Yes, you can make these coconut chews vegan by substituting the beaten eggs with a flaxseed meal or applesauce. For each egg, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit until it thickens. This will help bind the ingredients together just like eggs.
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).