Paradise Bars
Creamy, chocolatey Paradise Bars combine graham crackers, coconut, walnuts, and chocolate chips for a rich, sweet treat perfect for gatherings or indulgent snacking.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together all the ingredients in a bowl.
- Press the mixture into a greased 8 x 10-inch or 9 x 9-inch pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes.
- Allow to cool slightly, then cut into squares.
- Optional: Add one-half cup of chopped dates and/or cherries to the mixture before baking for extra flavor.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the texture, consider substituting half of the walnuts with pecans or almonds. If you prefer a gluten-free option, use gluten-free graham crackers. For added flavor, toast the nuts before mixing them in. Make sure to press the mixture firmly into the pan for even baking. For a fun twist, try adding some mini marshmallows into the mix, reminiscent of Moma'S Cookies.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Paradise Bars as a delightful dessert at gatherings or with afternoon tea. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat. Consider serving them alongside a fruit salad or alongside a slice of Chocolate Deluxe Zucchini Cake for a sweet spread. These bars are perfect for picnics or as a lunchbox snack.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Paradise Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate the bars for up to two weeks. To reheat, warm them in the microwave for a few seconds or enjoy them cold. If they become too hard in the fridge, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Paradise Bars contains roughly 2740 calories, with 68g protein, 356g carbohydrates, and 128g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (148% of the Daily Value), protein (136% of the Daily Value), and potassium (60% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1463mg per serving (64% 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 a different type of nut in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute walnuts with your favorite nuts like pecans or almonds. Just ensure they are chopped to similar sizes for even distribution. This will still give you that delightful crunch and flavor in the Paradise Bars.
How can I make these bars more chocolatey?
To increase the chocolate flavor, consider adding an extra half cup of chocolate chips or mixing in chocolate chunks. You could also drizzle melted chocolate over the top after baking for a rich finish.
Can I make these bars in advance?
Absolutely! Paradise Bars can be made a day or two in advance. Just bake and let them cool completely before storing in an airtight container. They taste great even after a couple of days, allowing the flavors to meld together.
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).