New York Specials
New York Specials are rich, coconut and chocolate layered treats with a crunchy graham cracker base and smooth vanilla pudding topping. Perfect for parties or dessert gatherings, they combine flavors of coconut, nuts, and chocolate in a delightful, easy-to-make square that appeals to chocolate lovers and fans of sweet, chewy confections.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a double boiler, stir until smooth the butter, sugar, and cocoa.
- Add the beaten egg and vanilla, then remove from heat.
- Stir in the shredded coconut, graham cracker crumbs, and chopped nuts.
- Spread the mixture evenly in a 9 x 9-inch square pan.
- In a separate bowl, mix the butter, confectioners sugar, pudding powder, and cream until smooth.
- Spread this mixture over the first layer in the pan.
- Melt the chocolate and butter, then spread on top of the second layer.
- Refrigerate until the mixture is firm, then cut into small pieces.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate for the top layer. If you want a nut-free version, simply omit the chopped nuts or substitute with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds. You can also use gluten-free graham crackers to make this dessert suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Make sure to let the chocolate layer cool completely before cutting for cleaner edges.
Serving Suggestions
These New York Specials are perfect as a sweet treat after a meal or as a midday snack. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a fun presentation, serve them alongside Connie'S Frozen Citrus Pie for a refreshing contrast. You can also garnish with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the pieces for up to three months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving. To enjoy them at room temperature, simply leave them out for about 30 minutes before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of New York Specials contains roughly 847 calories, with 8g protein, 93g carbohydrates, and 50g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value) and iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 substitute the butter with a non-dairy option?
Yes, you can use coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute to make this recipe dairy-free. This will keep the texture creamy while accommodating dietary restrictions. Just ensure that the non-dairy butter is softened for easier mixing, similar to how you would use regular butter.
How thick should the layers be?
Aim for about 1/2 inch thickness for both layers to ensure they hold together well without being too overwhelming. The bottom chocolate layer should be slightly thicker than the cream layer to maintain a good balance and structure when cutting into pieces.
Can I add other ingredients to the mix?
Absolutely! You can customize this recipe by adding mini chocolate chips, dried fruits, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top for added flavor. Just be cautious not to overload the mixture, as this could affect the set of the layers.
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).