These Chewy Coconut Bars are the kind of treat that disappears fast and gets requested often. With rich coconut flavor, a soft and chewy bite, and a glossy golden top, they deliver on both texture and taste. They’re made with simple pantry staples like marshmallows, sugar, and flour—no special tools or fancy techniques needed.
Why You’ll Love These Chewy Coconut Bars
- 🌴 Packed with Tropical Flavor: Coconut flakes bring bold, natural sweetness.
- 🍬 Perfectly Chewy Texture: Marshmallows give these bars their signature soft and sticky center.
- 🧈 Rich and Buttery: Balanced with just the right touch of vanilla and salt.
- 🧑🍳 Easy to Make: Mix, pour, bake, and slice. That’s it.
- 📦 Make-Ahead Friendly: Stores beautifully and even freezes well.
Ingredients for Chewy Coconut Bars
Base Ingredients:
- 1¼ sticks unsalted butter – room temperature for easy melting
- 2.5 oz mini marshmallows (¼ standard bag) – creates chewy texture
- 2 cups granulated sugar – provides sweetness and moisture
- 3 large eggs – binds everything and adds richness
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract (Dominican style if possible) – for bold flavor
- 1 tsp salt – enhances sweetness and coconut notes
- 1¼ cups unsweetened coconut flakes – the star ingredient
- 1½ cups sifted all-purpose flour – gives the bars structure
Step-by-Step Instructions
🔥 1. Preheat and Prep
Set your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a 13 x 9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving extra on the sides for easy removal.
🧈 2. Melt the Base
In a saucepan over low heat, combine butter and marshmallows. Stir constantly until melted and glossy, about 3–4 minutes. Remove from heat.
🥣 3. Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sugar, eggs, vanilla, and salt for about 2 minutes until pale and smooth.
🌊 4. Combine Mixtures
Slowly pour the melted butter-marshmallow mixture into the egg mixture, whisking continuously to avoid scrambling the eggs. Mix until fully combined and glossy.
🥥 5. Add Dry Ingredients
Fold in the coconut flakes and then gradually add the sifted flour, folding gently just until no dry streaks remain. Don’t overmix—keep the texture tender.
🧁 6. Fill the Pan
Scrape the batter into the prepared pan. Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to spread evenly to the edges.
⏲️ 7. Bake and Cool
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Use the parchment overhang to lift out and cut into neat bars once fully cooled.
Expert Tips for Perfect Coconut Bars
- Sift your flour to avoid clumps and create a tender bite.
- Cool completely before slicing for the cleanest edges.
- Use a hot knife (run under hot water and dried) to slice cleanly through the chewy texture.
- Add parchment overhang for quick and easy removal from the baking pan.
Tasty Variations to Try
- 🍫 Add Chocolate Chips: Fold in ¾ cup of semi-sweet or white chocolate chips before baking.
- 🥭 Go Tropical: Mix in ½ cup finely chopped dried pineapple or mango.
- 🌰 Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup toasted chopped pecans or macadamia nuts.
- 🎄 Holiday Edition: Stir in a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg for a spiced twist.
How to Store & Freeze
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container with parchment between layers for up to 5 days.
- Refrigerate: Bars keep for 1 week chilled—bring to room temperature before serving.
- Freeze: Wrap individual bars in plastic and foil. Freeze up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature for 1 hour before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- 🍦 Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an easy dessert.
- ☕ Serve with coffee, tea, or a coconut latte for a cozy treat.
- 🍽️ Slice small and serve at brunches with fresh fruit.
- 🎁 Wrap in parchment and twine for charming edible gifts.
FAQs About Chewy Coconut Bars
→ Can I use sweetened coconut flakes?
Yes! Reduce sugar by ¼ cup to avoid overly sweet bars. Texture may become slightly moister.
→ Do I need to sift the flour?
Yes—sifting ensures even mixing and a soft, uniform texture in every bite.
→ Can I freeze these bars?
Absolutely. Wrap them individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temp before serving.
→ Can I substitute marshmallows?
Try ¼ cup of honey or corn syrup, though the flavor and texture will be slightly different.
→ What’s the secret to getting clean cuts?
Cool completely, use a hot knife, and clean the blade between slices for bakery-style bars.
Conclusion
These Chewy Coconut Bars are everything a tropical-inspired treat should be—sweet, soft, rich, and bursting with coconut flavor. Whether you’re hosting, gifting, or indulging solo, this one-bowl recipe is your shortcut to a dessert that feels special with every bite. You’ll make them once and be hooked forever.