Name: Chewy Coconut Bars That Will Make Your Tastebuds Dance
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Butter (Melted) (Use unsalted butter for control over saltiness.); 2 cups Marshmallows (Use mini marshmallows for easier melting.); 1 cup Sugar (Granulated sugar is standard; brown sugar can be used for deeper flavor.); 2 large Eggs (Use large eggs for consistency.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Dominican Vanilla is preferred.); 1 cup Flour (All-purpose flour works best; gluten-free is untested.); 1 teaspoon Salt (A pinch of sea salt can complement the other ingredients.); 2 cups Unsweetened Coconut Flakes (Use large flakes for more texture.)

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As I was rummaging through my pantry one afternoon, a lightbulb moment struck: what if I combined my love for coconut and my craving for something sweet into one irresistible treat? Enter my Chewy Coconut Bars with Marshmallows. The blend of rich butter and tropical coconut flakes creates a delightful dessert that’s both soft and chewy. With just 10 minutes of prep time and a total of 30 minutes from start to finish, I can whip up these bars whenever I fancy a quick indulgence or need a crowd-pleasing treat for guests. And let’s not forget the joy of serving them warm alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream! Now, who’s ready to dive into a blissful bite of these chewy delights?

Why Are Chewy Coconut Bars Irresistible?

Simplicity: Just a handful of ingredients means you can whip up these bars quickly, making them a go-to recipe for any sweet craving.

Irresistible Texture: The chewy marshmallows combined with rich coconut flakes create a melt-in-your-mouth experience that you won’t be able to resist.

Versatile Delight: Enjoy them as a snack, dessert, or even breakfast treat! Pairing these bars with a hot cup of coffee or tea makes the perfect afternoon pick-me-up.

Crowd-Pleased: Whether for a casual get-together or a festive occasion, these bars are sure to impress friends and family.

Quick Indulgence: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you’ll always have a delightful treat on hand, just like my Layer Everything Bars that also comes together in a flash!

Chewy Coconut Bars Ingredients

• Prepare to create the perfect chewy treat with these essential components!

For the Batter

Butter (Melted) – Adds richness, ensuring a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture that binds the ingredients together. Use unsalted butter for control over saltiness.
Marshmallows – The secret ingredient providing unique chewiness and a soft, gooey layer. Use mini marshmallows for easier melting.
Sugar – Sweetens the bars and balances the coconut’s natural flavor. Granulated sugar is standard, but you can substitute brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
Eggs – Provide structure and help achieve a tender crumb. Use large eggs for consistency.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor with a beautiful vanilla undertone. Dominican Vanilla is preferred, but any pure vanilla extract will suffice.
Flour – Acts as the base, providing texture and structure. All-purpose flour works best; gluten-free flour is untested.
Salt – Enhances sweetness and elevates flavor. A pinch of sea salt can complement the other ingredients.
Unsweetened Coconut Flakes – The star ingredient providing texture and rich coconut flavor. Use large flakes for more texture or sweetened for a different taste profile.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chewy Coconut Bars

Step 1: Melt the Butter and Marshmallows
In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the melted butter and mini marshmallows. Stir continuously with a whisk until the mixture is smooth and all marshmallows are fully melted, about 5 minutes. Keep the mixture warm, as it will be added to the wet ingredients shortly.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a stand mixer, combine granulated sugar, large eggs, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix on medium speed until the mixture is fluffy and well combined, which should take about 2 minutes. Gradually pour in the warm butter and marshmallow mixture while the mixer is running, blending until everything is thoroughly incorporated.

Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
With the mixer on low speed, gradually add all-purpose flour and unsweetened coconut flakes to the wet mixture. Continue to mix until the dough is smooth and well-combined, approximately 2 minutes. Make sure there are no dry pockets of flour, ensuring a perfect texture for your Chewy Coconut Bars.

Step 4: Bake the Bars
Preheat your oven to 325°F and line a 13 x 9 x 1-inch baking sheet with parchment paper, allowing some to hang over the edges for easy removal. Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking sheet, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges start to turn a light golden brown and the center is set.

Step 5: Cool and Cut
Once baked, remove the Chewy Coconut Bars from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 30 minutes. After cooling, use the parchment paper to lift the bars out carefully. Transfer to a cutting board and slice into squares or rectangles as desired, serving them warm or at room temperature.

Chewy Coconut Bars Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize your Chewy Coconut Bars with these delightful tweaks!

Choco-Coconut Twist: Add a handful of chocolate chips to the batter for a delicious chocolate-coconut combination.
Nutty Crunch: Substitute half of the coconut flakes with chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for a satisfying crunch.
Tropical Fruit Fusion: Mix in some crushed pineapple or mango bits for a refreshing, fruity twist that brightens up each bite.
Spiced Up Flavor: Sprinkle in a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg to warm up the flavors. It’ll add a cozy holiday essence!
Coconut Cream Delight: Top your bars with a drizzle of coconut cream before serving for extra indulgence. It’s heavenly!
Layered Bars: For a decadent treat, create layers by alternating between the chewy coconut mixture and a layer of melted chocolate, just as you would with my 3-Ingredient Chewy Chocolate Oat Cookies.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version. You’ll still enjoy the same delightful texture!

What to Serve with Chewy Coconut Bars

Indulging in these sweet coconut bars opens the door to pairing possibilities that elevate your dessert experience.

Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy richness of vanilla ice cream complements the bars’ chewy texture beautifully, creating a delightful contrast.
Fresh Berries: A burst of tartness from fresh blueberries or raspberries adds a refreshing balance to the sweetness, enhancing every bite.
Coffee: A warm cup of coffee or espresso underscores the dessert’s flavors, making for a comforting afternoon treat.
Chocolate Drizzle: A drizzle of melted chocolate adds luxurious decadence and richness, taking these coconut bars to another level of indulgence.
Coconut Milk Shake: Creamy and sweet, this shake brings out the coconut flavor in the bars while providing a refreshing drink option.
Pineapple Sorbet: Light and tropical, pineapple sorbet adds a fruity twist that beautifully complements the coconut’s rich flavor.
Mango Slices: Juicy mango slices not only add color but also a sweet, tropical note that pairs harmoniously.
Lemonade: A refreshing glass of lemonade cuts through the sweetness, providing a zesty contrast for a well-rounded experience.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream brings a light, airy texture that beautifully complements the gooey bars.

Expert Tips for Chewy Coconut Bars

Melt Carefully: Ensure the butter and marshmallows melt thoroughly to avoid any lumps. This smooth mixture is key for the best chewy coconut bars.
Parchment Paper: Don’t skip using parchment paper; it helps prevent sticking and makes clean-up a breeze, especially with these sweet, gooey treats.
Cool Before Cutting: Allow the bars to cool completely for cleaner edges when cutting. This simple step enhances presentation and enjoyment!
Egg Size Matters: Always use large eggs for consistency. They provide the right amount of moisture and structure in your chewy coconut bars.
Texture Tip: For added texture, consider using large coconut flakes. They not only enhance flavor but also contribute to a delightful bite!

How to Store and Freeze Chewy Coconut Bars

Room Temperature: Store Chewy Coconut Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week for the best freshness.

Fridge: If you prefer a chilled treat, these bars can be stored in the fridge for up to 10 days. Just make sure to keep them covered to prevent drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bars for up to 3 months. Wrap each bar in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Reheating: Thaw the bars overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds before serving for a warm, gooey treat.

Make Ahead Options

These Chewy Coconut Bars are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply combine the wet and dry ingredients as directed and store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to bake the bars fresh when you’re ready to enjoy them for the best texture. If you want to bake a larger batch, once cooled, the bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. To maintain their chewy quality, make sure they are completely cooled before cutting, and consider reheating slightly before serving for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste!

Chewy Coconut Bars Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right coconut flakes for my Chewy Coconut Bars?
I recommend using unsweetened coconut flakes for a more authentic coconut flavor that won’t overpower the sweetness. If you prefer a sweeter profile, feel free to use sweetened coconut flakes instead. Opting for large flakes will give your bars added texture, while fine coconut can incorporate more discreetly into the dough.

What’s the best way to store leftover Chewy Coconut Bars?
To keep your Chewy Coconut Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate them for up to 10 days—just ensure they are covered to prevent drying out. Got more leftovers? They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months!

How can I freeze Chewy Coconut Bars properly?
Absolutely! To freeze your Chewy Coconut Bars, first wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator, and for a warm, gooey experience, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.

What should I do if my Chewy Coconut Bars come out too crumbly?
Don’t worry! If your bars are too crumbly, it usually means the moisture balance was off. Ensure you’re using the right amount of melted butter and marshmallows—these ingredients help bind the bars together. A common mistake is forgetting to incorporate the wet ingredients thoroughly with the dry ones. Next time, try mixing them for a bit longer to ensure a smoother consistency!

Can I make Chewy Coconut Bars gluten-free?
Currently, I haven’t tested gluten-free flour in this recipe, but you could certainly give it a try! If you decide to use a gluten-free alternative, ensure it has a one-to-one ratio for best results. Just be aware that the final texture may vary slightly. As always, if anyone in your household has dietary restrictions, it’s essential to check ingredient labels carefully.

Are Chewy Coconut Bars pet-friendly?
No, unfortunately, these bars aren’t suitable for pets due to the sugar and marshmallows. If you’re sharing the fun with your furry friends, you might want to whip up a special pet-friendly treat just for them! For your human pals, though, these chewy delights are a hit at any gathering.