Chewy Coconut Bars
Chewy Coconut Bars are one of those desserts that feel nostalgic and timeless, yet never go out of style. They are simple to make, deeply satisfying, and rely on pantry staples rather than complicated techniques. The texture is the real star here. Soft and chewy in the center, lightly golden on top, and packed with coconut flavor in every bite. These bars are perfect for afternoon tea, lunchboxes, bake sales, or when you want something sweet without committing to a layered cake or frosted dessert. They store well, slice cleanly, and taste even better the next day, which makes them ideal for both casual home baking and sharing.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Bake time: 30 minutes
Cooling time: 20 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
2 cups shredded coconut, unsweetened or lightly sweetened
1 cup all-purpose flour
¾ cup granulated sugar
½ cup brown sugar, packed
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
Optional: ¼ cup milk or cream for extra moisture
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
In a separate bowl, mix granulated sugar and brown sugar with the melted butter until smooth.
Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition.
Stir in vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
Gently mix in shredded coconut, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
If the batter feels too thick, stir in milk or cream one tablespoon at a time.
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan, smoothing the top.
Bake for 28 to 32 minutes, until the top is lightly golden and the center is just set. Cool completely before slicing.
Tips
Use room temperature eggs to help the batter blend smoothly.
Do not overmix once flour is added to keep bars tender.
Line the pan with parchment for easy removal and clean slices.
Unsweetened coconut gives better control over sweetness.
Check doneness early to avoid dry bars.
Let bars cool fully before cutting for best texture.
Use a sharp knife and wipe between cuts.
Melt butter gently to avoid separating fats.
Slight underbaking keeps the bars chewy.
Store tightly covered to maintain moisture.
Variations
Add chocolate chips for a classic coconut-chocolate combo.
Mix in chopped nuts like almonds or pecans for crunch.
Add lemon zest for a fresh citrus note.
Replace half the flour with almond flour for richness.
Drizzle baked bars with melted dark chocolate.
Add a pinch of cinnamon for warmth.
Use coconut sugar instead of brown sugar.
Fold in dried fruit like cranberries or pineapple.
Top with toasted coconut before baking.
Add a thin layer of jam underneath for a surprise filling.
Q&A
Are Chewy Coconut Bars supposed to be soft?
Yes, the texture should be moist and chewy, not dry or crumbly.
Can I use sweetened coconut?
Yes, but reduce sugar slightly to balance sweetness.
Can these bars be frozen?
They freeze well for up to 2 months when wrapped tightly.
How do I know when they are done?
The edges should be set and the center slightly soft.
Can I make them dairy-free?
Yes, use plant-based butter and milk alternatives.
Why did my bars turn dry?
Overbaking is the most common reason.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a larger pan and adjust baking time slightly.
Do these bars need refrigeration?
No, room temperature storage is fine for a few days.
Can I reduce sugar?
You can reduce by about ¼ cup without affecting texture too much.
Are these good for gifting?
Yes, they travel well and stay fresh for days.
Nutrition
(Approximate per bar)
Calories: 240
Carbohydrates: 30 g
Protein: 4 g
Fat: 12 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 18 g
Conclusion
Chewy Coconut Bars are proof that simple baking can still deliver big results. With minimal effort and familiar ingredients, you get a dessert that is comforting, versatile, and consistently satisfying. They work just as well for everyday treats as they do for special occasions, and the recipe is flexible enough to match your preferences. Whether enjoyed plain, dressed up with chocolate, or shared with friends, these bars are a dependable favorite that earns a permanent place in your baking rotation.