Chocolate Coconut Squares

Name: Chocolate Coconut Squares
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut; 1/2 cup butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Chocolate Coconut Squares! The rich cocoa flavor combined with the sweet, chewy coconut is a match made in dessert heaven. Every time I prepare this treat, I’m reminded of warm summer days spent indulging in my favorite sweets. They are surprisingly simple to make and come together in no time. Whether I’m sharing them at a gathering or enjoying them after dinner, these squares always bring smiles and compliments. You’ll want to keep this recipe handy, as it’s a guaranteed hit with friends and family!

Created by

Naomi Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-13T00:43:09.771Z

One of my favorite memories is making Chocolate Coconut Squares with my grandmother during family gatherings. She taught me the importance of quality ingredients, especially when it comes to chocolate. I’ve found that using high-quality cocoa powder truly elevates the flavor, making these squares rich and decadent.

When making these squares, I always toast the coconut for a few minutes before mixing it with the batter. This step brings out a deeper, nuttier flavor that enhances the overall taste. Trust me, once you try it this way, you won’t go back!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with sweet, chewy coconut
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

The Role of Ingredients

Each ingredient in Chocolate Coconut Squares has a specific purpose that contributes to the overall flavor and texture of the squares. The all-purpose flour provides the necessary structure, while granulated sugar sweetens the mixture and helps to create a nice crust. Unsweetened cocoa powder is essential, as it delivers the rich chocolate flavor that makes these squares irresistible. Additionally, shredded coconut not only adds sweetness but also contributes to the chewy texture. Choosing high-quality ingredients, especially cocoa powder, can significantly enhance the final taste.

Butter plays a crucial role in adding moisture and richness to the squares. For a variation, you can substitute half of the butter with coconut oil for an extra coconut flavor, which can elevate the tropical taste experience. The eggs bind the ingredients together and help achieve a lovely, dense texture, while vanilla adds depth to the chocolate flavor. Remember, using room temperature ingredients can help achieve a smoother batter, ensuring a more uniform texture in the final product.

Baking Tips and Troubleshooting

Getting the baking time just right is crucial for achieving the perfect texture. Chocolate Coconut Squares should be baked until the edges are set and the center is slightly soft. Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes; they should not overbake, as this will lead to a dry product. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. If they overbake, they can still be salvaged by serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top to add moisture back.

If you find that your squares are too crumbly, consider adding an extra egg next time, which helps to bind and create a fudgier consistency. On the other hand, if they are too dense, you can reduce the flour slightly or incorporate some baking soda to lighten the texture. Remember that every oven is different; consider using an oven thermometer to ensure your temperature is accurate for consistent baking results.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before starting to make the process smoother!

For the Chocolate Coconut Squares

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
1/2 cup butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Steps to Make Chocolate Coconut Squares

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious dessert!

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9-inch baking pan.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, shredded coconut, baking powder, and salt.

Add the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.

Bake the Squares

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the squares cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before cutting into squares.

Enjoy your homemade Chocolate Coconut Squares with a cup of coffee or tea!

Pro Tips

For an extra boost of flavor, consider adding a pinch of espresso powder to the batter.

Storage and Freezing

Chocolate Coconut Squares can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to three days, maintaining their chewy texture. If you plan to keep them longer, consider freezing them. To freeze, cool the squares completely, then cut them and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap before placing in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply let them thaw overnight in the refrigerator. For a warm treat, you can reheat them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, ensuring they remain soft and delicious. This makes them a great make-ahead dessert option for last-minute gatherings or sweet cravings.

Serving Suggestions

These chocolate coconut squares make for a delightful dessert to serve at gatherings. For an elegant presentation, dust with powdered sugar just before serving or drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra touch of indulgence. Pairing them with a scoop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream can also balance the rich flavors nicely and enhance the overall experience.

Feel free to experiment with toppings and add-ins! Chopped nuts can provide a nice crunch, or a sprinkle of sea salt can enhance the savory elements. If you want to add a twist, consider swirling in some caramel or peanut butter into the batter before baking for an added layer of flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these squares gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ How should I store leftover squares?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer shelf life.

→ Can I add nuts to the recipe?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans make a great addition to the batter.

→ What is the best way to cut these squares?

Use a sharp knife and let the squares cool completely for clean cuts.