Nothing compares to the joy of creating your own version of a beloved chocolate treat at home. These homemade coconut chocolate bars—a delightful combination of creamy condensed milk, finely shredded coconut, and smooth chocolate—are an absolute delight! Easy to make, they require minimal ingredients and time, yet deliver a luxurious result that rivals any store-bought confection.
Understanding the Ingredients
Before diving into the process, let’s break down the key components that make these bars irresistible:
1. Desiccated Coconut
Desiccated coconut is the star of this recipe. It provides the chewy, nutty texture and rich coconut flavor that forms the foundation of these bars. Ensure you use finely shredded, unsweetened desiccated coconut for the best results.
2. Sweetened Condensed Milk
This ingredient brings the right amount of sweetness while binding the coconut together. Its creamy consistency ensures the bars hold their shape.
3. Chocolate
You can use milk chocolate for a traditional sweet flavor or dark chocolate for a more intense, bittersweet twist. Opt for high-quality chocolate chips or compound chocolate to enhance the flavor and texture.
Preparing Your Workspace
To create these coconut chocolate bars, you’ll need the following tools:
A mixing bowl
Spatula
Rectangular mould or cake tin
Parchment paper
Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl for melting chocolate
Fork and butter knife for decorating
Step 1: Mixing the Coconut Base
Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2.5 cups of desiccated coconut and 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk. Use a spatula to mix until the ingredients form a dough-like consistency.
Test the Mixture: Take a small amount of the mixture and press it in your palm. If it holds its shape without crumbling, your base is ready. If it’s too dry, add a teaspoon of condensed milk at a time until the desired consistency is achieved.
Step 2: Shaping the Bars
Prepare the Mould: Line a rectangular cake tin or any flat-bottomed container with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes it easy to remove the set mixture.
Transfer and Flatten: Spoon the coconut mixture into the lined mould. Use the back of a spoon or spatula to press it evenly, ensuring a smooth surface.
Freeze: Place the mould in the freezer for at least 1–2 hours. This step is crucial for firming up the mixture, making it easier to slice into bars later.
Step 3: Melting the Chocolate
Set Up a Double Boiler: Fill a pot with an inch of water and bring it to a simmer. Place a heatproof bowl over the pot, ensuring it doesn’t touch the water.
Melt the Chocolate: Add 200 grams of milk or dark chocolate chips to the bowl. Stir gently and continuously until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
Avoid Seizing: Be careful to keep water away from the chocolate, as even a drop can cause it to seize and become grainy.
Step 4: Assembling the Bars
Slice the Coconut Base: Once the coconut mixture is firm, remove it from the mould. Using a sharp knife, slice it horizontally into bar-shaped portions. Aim for approximately 14 evenly sized pieces.
Smooth the Edges: Gently shape and smooth the edges of each bar for a polished look.
Coat in Chocolate: Using a fork, dip each bar into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated. Lift it out and let the excess drip off before placing it on a tray lined with parchment paper.
Create Signature Lines: Use a butter knife to make three parallel lines on the top of each bar for the iconic look.
Step 5: Final Touch
Set the Bars: Refrigerate the coated bars until the chocolate hardens completely. This may take 20–40 minutes depending on the temperature of your kitchen.
Serve and Store: Your homemade coconut chocolate bars are ready to enjoy! Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Note that they may dry out slightly over time.
Pro Tips for Success
Choose Quality Ingredients: The flavor of your bars largely depends on the quality of your chocolate and coconut. Opt for premium brands for the best results.
Customize the Coating: Experiment with white chocolate or a drizzle of caramel for a unique twist.
Temperature Matters: If your bars crumble while slicing, allow more time in the freezer.
Ingredients:
2.5 cups desiccated coconut
1 cup sweetened condensed milk
200 g milk or dark chocolate chips
Instructions:
In a bowl, mix desiccated coconut and condensed milk until it forms a dough.
Line a mould with parchment paper and spread the mixture evenly. Freeze for 1–2 hours.
Melt chocolate in a double boiler or microwave.
Slice the firm coconut mixture into bars.
Dip each bar in melted chocolate and place on a lined tray.
Refrigerate until set, then enjoy!
