Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Bars

Name: Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 10 bars
Ingredients: 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1 cup shredded coconut; 1/2 cup crushed pistachios; 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Bars, especially when I want a sweet treat that's both decadent and satisfying. The combination of rich chocolate, crunchy pistachios, and chewy coconut creates a delightful balance of flavors and textures. With just a handful of ingredients, these bars are easy to whip up and are always a hit at gatherings. Whether you’re indulging yourself or impressing guests, these bars bring a touch of luxury to any occasion.

Created by

Maya Richardson

Last updated on 2026-01-18T02:25:11.318Z

When I first attempted to create these Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Bars, I wanted something that combined my love for chocolate with the tropical flavors of coconut. Experimenting in the kitchen, I found that toasting the pistachios before mixing them in not only enhances their flavor but also adds that extra crunch I adore in desserts.

Throughout my trials, I discovered that allowing the bars to chill for at least an hour after baking really helps in setting the texture perfectly. This makes slicing them easier and ensures each bite is a delicious melding of flavors, leaving everyone craving more!

        Why You'll Love These Bars
        Decadent chocolate complemented by nutty pistachios
Chewy coconut that adds a delightful texture
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any occasion

      

Understanding Ingredients

The success of these Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Bars lies significantly in the quality of the chocolate you choose. Opting for high-quality dark chocolate chips not only enhances the flavor but also results in a smoother, more luxurious texture. A richer chocolate will contribute to the bars' decadent profile, balancing beautifully with the crunch of the pistachios. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, you can substitute half of the dark chocolate with semi-sweet chocolate, but be mindful that it will alter the overall sweetness.

Pistachios not only add a delightful crunch but also bring their unique nutty flavor that complements the chocolate and coconut. When crushing pistachios, aim for a coarse consistency - too fine, and they will blend into the mixture rather than provide texture. If you’re aiming for a nut-free version, sunflower seeds can provide a similar crunch while keeping the nut-free status intact.

Perfecting Texture

Achieving the ideal texture for your bars hinges on the right balance of shredded coconut and sweetened condensed milk. Using unsweetened shredded coconut can give a more pronounced coconut flavor while creating a less cloying bar overall. If the mixture feels too dry before baking, adding a touch more condensed milk can help ensure the bars are chewy once baked. Additionally, pressing the mixture firmly into the baking dish will yield denser bars that hold together better when sliced.

When baking, keep a close eye on the edges of the bars; you want them to turn golden brown but not overly dark. This baking step is crucial for achieving that imperfectly perfect chewy yet firm texture. If you leave them in the oven too long, they may become too hard and lose the desired fudgy quality.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to get started:

Ingredients for Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Bars

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

Once you have all your ingredients, let’s get to the fun part!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious bars:

Prepare the Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips, shredded coconut, crushed pistachios, sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until well combined.

Transfer to a Baking Dish

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

Bake the Bars

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 25 minutes or until the edges are slightly browned.

Cool and Slice

Allow the bars to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring them to the refrigerator to set completely for at least 1 hour. Once set, slice into squares.

Enjoy your deliciously rich Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Bars!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of sea salt on top of the bars before baking. It really elevates the sweetness of the chocolate.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Bars can be made ahead of time, making them an excellent treat for busy schedules. Once sliced, store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for up to a week. You can also layer parchment paper between the bars to prevent them from sticking together, which can be particularly helpful if you’re making a large batch.

For longer storage, these bars freeze exceptionally well. Simply wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be kept frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These bars can be savored on their own, but if you’re looking to elevate them further, consider drizzling melted chocolate over the top before slicing. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt is also a delightful finishing touch that enhances the dessert's flavor profile. For a different flavor twist, you could incorporate a splash of almond extract instead of vanilla, complementing the nutty flavors of the pistachios beautifully.

If you want to experiment with flavors, try adding dried fruits such as cranberries or apricots into the mixture—this will add sweet tanginess and another layer of texture. Alternatively, consider rolling the finished bars in crushed nuts or coconut before slicing; this not only adds visual appeal but also extra crunch.

Questions About Recipes

→ How do I store the Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Bars?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I substitute the dark chocolate chips?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate or even white chocolate chips based on your preference.

→ Is it possible to make these bars vegan?

Absolutely! Use dairy-free chocolate chips and coconut cream instead of sweetened condensed milk.

→ Can I freeze these bars?

Yes, these bars freeze well. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months.