Craving a sweet treat that fits your healthy lifestyle? These Chocolate Covered Coconut Bars are a delicious and easy way to enjoy a guilt-free dessert. You’ll love how simple they are to make and how perfectly they satisfy your chocolate cravings.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Shredded Coconut (Unsweetened): Essential for that classic coconut flavor and texture.
- Coconut Oil (Melted): Helps bind the bars together and adds richness.
- Maple Syrup: A natural sweetener. You can also use agave nectar.
- Dark Chocolate Chips: For the irresistible chocolate coating. Choose dairy-free if needed.
Ingredients:
For the Coconut Filling:
- 2 cups unsweetened shredded coconut
- ¼ cup melted coconut oil
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For the Chocolate Coating:
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 45 minutes (plus chilling)
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 12 bars
- Tools Needed: 8×8 inch baking pan, parchment paper, mixing bowls, double boiler or microwave-safe bowl.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Pan
Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. This makes it easy to lift your Healthy Chocolate Desserts Ideas out later.
2. Make the Coconut Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the unsweetened shredded coconut, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and feels slightly sticky.
3. Press the Filling
Transfer the coconut mixture into your prepared baking pan. Press it down firmly and evenly using the back of a spoon or your hands. You want a compact, flat layer.
4. Chill the Coconut Layer
Place the pan in the freezer for at least 20-30 minutes. This helps the coconut layer firm up, making it easier to cut and coat.
5. Prepare the Chocolate Coating
While the coconut chills, melt the dark chocolate chips and 1 tablespoon of coconut oil. You can do this in a double boiler or carefully in the microwave, stirring frequently until smooth.
6. Cut the Bars
Once the coconut layer is firm, remove it from the freezer and lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper. Cut the slab into 12 even bars or squares.
7. Coat with Chocolate
Dip each coconut bar into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated. Let any excess chocolate drip off. Place the coated bars back onto the parchment paper.
8. Final Chill
Return the chocolate-covered bars to the freezer for another 10-15 minutes, or until the chocolate coating is set. Now you have perfect Healthy Chocolate Desserts Ideas!
Variation Ideas:
- Nutty Crunch: Add 2 tablespoons of finely chopped nuts (like almonds or pecans) to the coconut filling.
- Citrus Zest: Include 1 teaspoon of orange or lemon zest in the coconut mixture for a bright flavor.
- White Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted white chocolate over the finished bars for an extra touch.
- Peppermint Twist: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the melted chocolate for a festive treat.
Storage Instructions:
Store your Chocolate Covered Coconut Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can also freeze them for up to one month, just thaw slightly before enjoying.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can you use sweetened coconut?
Yes, but you might want to reduce the amount of maple syrup slightly to adjust for the added sweetness.
How do you prevent the chocolate from seizing?
Make sure no water gets into your chocolate when melting, especially if using a double boiler. Melt slowly and stir constantly.
Are these bars vegan?
Yes, if you use dairy-free dark chocolate chips, these bars are completely vegan, making them great Healthy Chocolate Desserts Ideas.
Can you skip the coconut oil in the chocolate coating?
The coconut oil helps make the chocolate coating smoother and easier to work with, and gives it a nice snap when set. You can omit it, but the chocolate might be thicker.
How do you get a thin chocolate coating?
Ensure your chocolate is melted and smooth. You can also thin it slightly with a tiny bit more coconut oil if needed.
Can you use a different sweetener?
Yes, you can substitute the maple syrup with agave nectar or another liquid sweetener of your choice.