Chocolate Coconut Fudge Bars

Name: Chocolate Coconut Fudge Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Ideas

I absolutely love making these Chocolate Coconut Fudge Bars, especially when I want a quick treat that combines rich flavors and textures. The combination of sweet chocolate and chewy coconut makes for a decadent dessert that everyone adores. I always keep the ingredients on hand so that I can whip these up at a moment's notice. These bars are not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying, making them a perfect indulgence for any occasion or simply to treat myself.

Created by

Emma Parker

Last updated on 2026-01-05T23:17:35.299Z

When I first experimented with these Chocolate Coconut Fudge Bars, I was amazed at how simple yet flavorful they turned out. I tried different recipes, but what set this one apart was the balance between the coconut and chocolate. Using sweetened condensed milk adds a creamy texture that binds everything together, while still maintaining that fudge-like consistency.

One key tip I've learned is to let the bars cool completely before cutting them; this helps in achieving clean edges. I often add a sprinkle of sea salt on top to enhance the sweetness and create a rich contrast. It's such a small detail, but it elevates the flavor!

        Why You'll Love These Bars
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with chewy coconut
Decadent texture with a perfect balance of sweetness
Quick and easy to make for any occasion

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star ingredients in these Chocolate Coconut Fudge Bars are sweetened shredded coconut and semi-sweet chocolate chips. The shredded coconut provides a chewy texture that perfectly complements the silky smoothness of the chocolate. When buying coconut, look for the sweetened variety, as it adds a crucial layer of flavor and moisture. If you have unsweetened coconut on hand, you can sweeten it by mixing it with a bit of sugar, though the bars may turn out slightly less sweet.

Sweetened condensed milk plays a vital role in binding the ingredients together while adding richness. Its creamy consistency ensures that the fudge bars hold together once set. If you're looking for a dairy-free version, consider using coconut milk mixed with a sweetener as a substitute, but be ready for a slightly different texture. Mixing the ingredients vigorously is important, as this helps to ensure an even distribution of chocolate and coconut throughout the batter.

Perfecting the Baking Process

Baking is crucial for developing the texture of these fudge bars. When baking, keep an eye on the mixture; it should appear set and slightly puffed up after about 20 minutes at 350°F (175°C). You can test for doneness by gently pressing the surface; it should feel firm but not hard. Avoid overbaking, as this can result in dry bars, which is not what we want for a creamy dessert. If you're unsure, it's better to take them out a minute or two earlier.

Allowing the fudge bars to cool slowly in the pan is key. This not only makes them easier to cut but also helps them maintain moisture. I recommend cooling them at room temperature for about 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. If you prefer to speed up the cooling process, placing them in the refrigerator can be effective, but ensure they aren’t too warm when transferred to avoid condensation that can make them sticky.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Coconut Fudge Bars store wonderfully. Once cooled and cut into squares, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze individual bars. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Just make sure to let them thaw in the fridge for a few hours before enjoying them.

When it comes to serving, these bars can be dressed up in a few fun ways. Consider drizzling melted chocolate or a sprinkle of sea salt over the top for an extra touch of decadence. They pair beautifully with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert. I also love doubling the recipe to keep a batch in the fridge for unexpected guests or afternoon cravings!

Ingredients

For the Fudge Bars

1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Prepare the Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine sweetened shredded coconut, chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until everything is well incorporated.

Spread in a Pan

Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper. Pour the mixture into the pan and press down evenly with a spatula.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the mixture for about 20 minutes, or until the top is set.

Cool and Cut

Once baked, remove from the oven and let the bars cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before cutting into squares.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the bars before they cool. This adds a delightful contrast to the sweetness!

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking for a way to make these bars gluten-free, you’re in luck—this recipe is naturally gluten-free! Substitute the sweetened condensed milk with a homemade version made from coconut cream and maple syrup to cater to those with specialized diets. Instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips, you can utilize dark chocolate for a richer flavor or try white chocolate for a sweeter profile that contrasts beautifully with the coconut.

For those who might want to elevate the flavor profile, consider adding a pinch of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate's richness. Alternatively, for a tropical twist, incorporate chopped nuts like macadamias or almonds; just be sure to adjust the amount of shredded coconut accordingly to maintain the right texture.

Troubleshooting Tips

Sometimes, you may encounter issues with the fudge bars not cutting cleanly. If this happens, try warming your knife under hot water before slicing; this will help achieve cleaner edges. If the bars seem too crumbly after cooling, it may be due to overbaking—next time, check them a minute earlier for a fudgier texture.

Another common issue is the fudge bars sticking to the pan. To prevent this, ensure you line your pan properly with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides, which will make it easier to lift them out after cooling. If you forget the parchment, greasing the pan generously with butter or cooking spray can also do the trick, but parchment is always my first choice.

Flavor Variations

While the classic chocolate and coconut combination is beloved, there are countless ways to customize these bars to suit your taste. Adding peanut butter or almond butter to the mixture before baking can add a nutty flavor that complements the chocolate beautifully. Just remember to slightly reduce the amount of sweetened condensed milk if you add a thick paste to keep the bars from becoming too gooey.

Incorporating spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can give these bars a warm, aromatic touch that's perfect for fall or winter festivities. You might also experiment by mixing in dried fruits like cranberries or raisins, which would introduce a lovely tartness that balances the sweetness of the chocolate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet?

Yes, using dark chocolate will give the bars a richer flavor.

→ How should I store the fudge bars?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I add nuts to the recipe?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans would make a great addition.

→ Is there a dairy-free option for these bars?

You can use dairy-free chocolate chips and coconut milk instead of sweetened condensed milk to create a dairy-free version.