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Coconut Chewies: A Sweet and Chewy Tropical Delight
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s simple, satisfying, and irresistibly chewy, these Coconut Chewies are just what you need. Bursting with the natural sweetness of coconut and a buttery, golden crust, this recipe transforms everyday ingredients into a treat that’s both nostalgic and exotic. Whether you’re serving them for a family gathering, a bake sale, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, these bars are guaranteed to become a favorite in your dessert rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make these delightful Coconut Chewies:
Dry Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
Wet Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
– 1 1/2 cups light brown sugar, packed
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Optional Add-Ins:
– 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup chopped macadamia nuts or pecans
– A sprinkle of sea salt on top for extra flavor
How to Make Coconut Chewies
These chewy coconut bars come together in just a few easy steps. Here’s how to make them perfectly every time:
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x9-inch baking
pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. The parchment
helps lift the bars out once they’ve cooled, making slicing much
simpler.
Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and brown sugar
until smooth and glossy. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, then whisk
again until fully combined. The mixture should look thick and
caramel-like at this stage — that’s what gives the bars their rich
flavor.
Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until everything
is well incorporated. The batter will be dense and sticky — that’s
perfectly normal for chewy bars.
Step 4: Fold in the Coconut
Gently fold in the shredded coconut (and any optional add-ins). The
coconut not only gives flavor but also helps create that signature chewy
texture. Make sure it’s evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Spread the batter evenly in your prepared pan and smooth the top with a
spatula. Bake for about 25–30 minutes, or until the edges are golden
brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.
Avoid overbaking — the bars will continue to set as they cool.
Step 6: Cool and Slice
Allow the Coconut Chewies to cool completely in the pan before cutting.
Once cool, lift them out using the parchment and slice into squares or
bars. For a neat finish, wipe your knife between cuts.
Tips for Perfect Coconut Chewies
– Don’t overmix: Stir the batter just until combined to maintain that soft, chewy texture.
– Use fresh coconut: Sweetened shredded coconut gives the best flavor and moisture.
– Brown sugar is key: It adds depth, caramel flavor, and chewiness that white sugar can’t match.
– Customize your bars: Add dried cranberries for a tart twist, or drizzle melted chocolate on top once cooled.
– Cool completely before slicing: Cutting too early can make the bars crumble.
Serving Suggestions
Coconut Chewies are incredibly versatile and can be served in several delicious ways:
– Enjoy them plain with a cup of coffee or tea.
– Top them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and warm caramel sauce for a decadent dessert.
– Dust lightly with powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.
– Pair with tropical fruits like pineapple or mango for a refreshing summer treat.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
These bars store beautifully, making them great for meal prep or gifting. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. To maintain that chewy texture, avoid overexposure to air. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months — just wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Why These Bars Are a Crowd Favorite
Coconut Chewies are the kind of dessert that never fails to impress. They’re simple enough for weeknight baking yet delicious enough for special occasions. The rich buttery base, combined with the natural sweetness and chew of coconut, creates a harmony that’s both comforting and indulgent. Every bite feels like a trip to a tropical paradise — without leaving your kitchen.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or yourself, these Coconut Chewies are a must-try. They strike the perfect balance between ease and flavor — chewy, sweet, and full of coconut charm. With minimal effort and maximum reward, this recipe is proof that sometimes the simplest desserts are the most satisfying. Bake a batch today and enjoy a taste of tropical sweetness in every bite!