Rice-Coconut-Chocolate Squares
Creamy rice squares infused with coconut and chocolate, topped with whipped topping—delightful, sweet, and perfect for dessert lovers or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix sugar, salt, and water in a saucepan.
- Bring to a full boil. Stir in rice.
- Cover and remove from heat.
- Let stand for 5 minutes.
- Add coconut and chocolate chips to hot rice and stir until chips are melted.
- Cover and chill the mixture.
- Fold whipped topping into the rice mixture.
- Pour into a waxed paper-lined square pan (8-inch or 9x5-inch loaf pan).
- Cover and chill until firm.
- Remove paper and place on a serving plate.
- Cut into squares or slices to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using toasted coconut instead of regular Angel Flake coconut. If you're looking for a lighter version, you can substitute the Cool Whip with a homemade vegan whipped topping made from coconut cream. Be sure to stir the chocolate chips thoroughly to ensure even melting and distribution throughout the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
These Rice-Coconut-Chocolate Squares are perfect on their own but can also be served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat. For a unique twist, consider serving alongside a refreshing Stewed Tomato Salad to balance the sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you want to enjoy them later, you can freeze the squares for up to three months. To reheat, simply let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice-Coconut-Chocolate Squares contains roughly 58 calories, with 1g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1172mg per serving (51% 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 rice for this recipe?
While Minute rice is recommended for its quick cooking time, you can use other types of rice. However, cooking times may vary, and you should ensure that the rice is fully cooked and fluffy before adding the chocolate and coconut.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
Yes! To make these squares vegan, simply use dairy-free chocolate chips and replace the Cool Whip with a vegan whipped topping or homemade coconut cream. This will ensure that your dessert is suitable for vegan diets.
How do I know when the mixture is chilled enough?
The mixture should be firm to the touch and hold its shape when you cut it into squares. It typically takes about 2-3 hours in the refrigerator to chill properly, but you can check it after 1-2 hours to see if it has set to your desired firmness.
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).