If you love rich chocolate coconut candy bars with a creamy center and smooth chocolate coating, this easy homemade recipe is perfect for you. These no-fuss coconut bars are soft, sweet, and coated in glossy melted chocolate—just like your favorite store-bought treats but made with simple pantry ingredients. Perfect for holiday desserts, party platters, food blogging, or even a small home baking business, this recipe delivers bakery-quality results at home.
These bars are ideal for anyone searching for easy dessert recipes, no-bake coconut treats, homemade candy recipes, or chocolate dessert ideas with high-quality ingredients and minimal prep time.
Ingredients
For the Coconut Filling:
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3 cups desiccated coconut (unsweetened or sweetened)
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1 cup sweetened condensed milk
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1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
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Pinch of salt
For the Chocolate Coating:
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2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (or dark chocolate for a richer flavor)
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1 tablespoon coconut oil (for a smooth, glossy finish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Coconut Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the desiccated coconut, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir well until the mixture becomes thick and sticky. It should hold together when pressed.
Step 2: Shape the Bars
Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and press firmly into oval or rectangular bar shapes using your hands. Place them on a parchment-lined baking tray.
Step 3: Chill
Refrigerate the shaped coconut bars for at least 1–2 hours, or until firm. This step helps them hold their shape during chocolate dipping.
Step 4: Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips with coconut oil in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until smooth and glossy.
Step 5: Coat the Bars
Using a fork, dip each chilled coconut bar into the melted chocolate. Ensure it’s fully coated. Let excess chocolate drip off before placing it back onto the parchment paper.
Step 6: Set
Refrigerate again for 20–30 minutes, or until the chocolate shell is completely firm.
Storage Tips
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Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
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Freeze for up to 2 months for longer storage.
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Let sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before serving for best texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ No baking required
✔ Made with simple ingredients
✔ Budget-friendly dessert idea
✔ Perfect for gifting or selling
✔ Kid-friendly and party-ready
This recipe is also excellent for those looking into homemade chocolate candy for gifting, easy holiday desserts, or profitable baking ideas for small businesses.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use fresh coconut instead of desiccated coconut?
Yes, but make sure it’s finely grated and not too moist. Excess moisture may prevent the bars from setting properly.
2. How do I make this recipe dairy-free?
Use dairy-free condensed milk alternatives and vegan chocolate chips to create a completely plant-based dessert.
3. Can I add almonds inside?
Absolutely! Insert a whole almond into the center before shaping for an almond coconut chocolate bar variation.
4. Why is my chocolate coating cracking?
This usually happens if the bars are too cold when dipped. Let them sit at room temperature for 3–5 minutes before coating.
5. Can I make these sugar-free?
You can use sugar-free condensed milk and sugar-free chocolate chips for a lower-carb option.
