Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Bars

Name: Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut; 1/2 cup chopped pistachios; 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Dessert Delights Co.

I absolutely love making these Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Bars whenever I need a sweet pick-me-up. The combination of rich chocolate, crunchy pistachios, and chewy coconut is simply irresistible! I love how easy they are to prepare, and they come together in no time. Plus, these bars are perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a delightful treat on my own. Once you try them, I promise they will become a staple in your dessert repertoire!

Created by

Arabella Scott

Last updated on 2026-01-15T16:07:16.623Z

I first discovered the joy of combining chocolate and coconut while experimenting in my kitchen, and it was love at first bite! When I added the crunch of pistachios, I knew I had created something special. The combination of textures and flavors in these bars truly elevates the experience.

One tip I learned while perfecting this recipe is to toast the pistachios before adding them. This simple step enhances their flavor and gives an added depth to the bars. Trust me, it's worth the extra couple of minutes!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy pistachios
Chewy coconut texture that complements the bars perfectly
Quick and easy to make for any occasion

      

The Power of Ingredients

The ingredients in these Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Bars play a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of textures and flavors. Dark chocolate chips not only give the bars their rich, indulgent taste but also provide a luscious, melty base when baked. The combination of chopped pistachios adds a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the chewy sweetness of the shredded coconut. Together, these components create a symphony of tastes in every bite, ensuring you're never left wanting more.

The sweetened condensed milk is fundamental in binding the mixture together while also imparting a subtle sweetness. Its creaminess helps to achieve a tender texture that complements the sturdiness of the cocoa powder, which adds depth and richness. If you want a lighter version, consider using coconut cream as a substitute, but keep in mind it may alter the overall texture slightly, making it denser.

Baking Tips for Success

When baking these bars, preheating the oven to the correct temperature is essential for even cooking. You should aim for a soft, gooey center and golden edges. If the edges begin to look too dark, it's a sign they may already be done. Try checking for doneness at the 15-minute mark; if the center appears firm to the touch but not set, it's a good time to take them out. Letting them cool completely in the pan ensures they firm up without crumbling when cut.

Using parchment paper in the baking dish not only helps with easy removal but also prevents the bars from sticking and maintains their shape. I personally recommend greasing the parchment lightly with cooking spray for an extra assurance that they lift out cleanly. When cutting the bars, using a sharp knife will help avoid any tearing or undue pressure that might compromise their structure.

Ingredients

For the Bars

1 cup dark chocolate chips
1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut
1/2 cup chopped pistachios
1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Prepare the Mixture

In a bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips, shredded coconut, chopped pistachios, sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper. Pour the chocolate mixture into the dish and spread it evenly using a spatula.

Bake the Bars

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the mixture for 20 minutes. Remove from oven and let it cool completely in the dish.

Cut and Serve

Once cooled, lift the mixture out of the dish using the parchment paper. Cut into bars and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider drizzling melted chocolate on top of the bars before serving.

Customization Ideas

One of the joys of making these chocolate pistachio coconut bars is the freedom to customize them according to your tastes. For an extra flavor kick, consider adding a teaspoon of instant coffee or espresso powder to the chocolate mixture; it enhances the chocolate flavor dramatically without making them taste like coffee. You could also experiment with other nuts, like almonds or walnuts, instead of pistachios for a different texture and profile.

If you're looking to cater to dietary restrictions, you can easily make these bars gluten-free by ensuring your dark chocolate chips and any other added ingredients are certified gluten-free. Additionally, substituting the sweetened condensed milk with a plant-based version made from almond or coconut milk will create a vegan-friendly treat. Just keep in mind that you might need to adjust the sweetness level since those alternatives can vary.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Bars store excellently, making them a great make-ahead treat. Once cooled and cut, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you need to keep them longer, they can be refrigerated for up to two weeks, or frozen for up to three months. Be sure to wrap them individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.

For serving, these bars can be enjoyed as-is or dressed up for special occasions. Dusting the top with a light sprinkle of sea salt or shredded coconut just before serving elevates the presentation beautifully. Pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream adds an indulgent touch that complements the rich chocolate and nutty flavors remarkably well.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use unsweetened chocolate instead of dark chocolate chips?

Yes, but you may need to adjust the sugar content to maintain sweetness.

→ How should I store the bars?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.

→ Can I substitute pistachios with another nut?

Absolutely! Almonds or walnuts would work well in this recipe.

→ Is it possible to make these bars vegan?

Yes! You can use vegan chocolate chips and coconut milk instead of sweetened condensed milk.