Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Squares

Name: Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Squares
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 200g dark chocolate, chopped; 100g sweetened shredded coconut; 100g pistachios, chopped; 100g unsalted butter; 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup sugar; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Classic Planning

I absolutely love creating desserts that excite the senses, and these Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Squares do just that! The rich chocolate flavor combined with the crunch of pistachios and the sweetness of coconut makes for an irresistible treat. I love to serve these at gatherings or simply enjoy them with a cup of tea at home. They come together so easily, and you'll be surprised at how quickly the flavors meld together. Trust me, once you try these squares, they will become a staple in your dessert repertoire.

Created by

Jemima Fox

Last updated on 2026-01-20T00:10:36.909Z

When I first experimented with pairing chocolate and coconut, I instantly fell in love with the flavor combination. Adding pistachios brought a delightful crunch that really elevated the dish. I recommend using high-quality dark chocolate to really enhance the richness in these squares. You'll be surprised at how well the textures come together!

This recipe also gives you room to play with the ingredients. I sometimes swap the pistachios for almonds or walnuts, depending on what I have available. Each variation has its unique charm, but the base remains satisfyingly delicious!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy pistachios
Decadent coconut sweetness that balances the bitterness
Easy to make and perfect for sharing at gatherings

      

The Importance of Ingredients

Each ingredient in these Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Squares plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavors. The dark chocolate gives a rich, luxurious taste while the sweetened shredded coconut adds a delightful texture and sweetness. Using unsalted butter is essential because it allows you to control the saltiness of the dessert, enhancing the overall flavor without overwhelming the chocolate's richness.

Pistachios do more than just provide crunch; they impart a unique nutty flavor that complements the chocolate and coconut beautifully. If you’re looking to make this recipe nut-free, consider substituting with sunflower seeds for a similar crunch or simply increasing the coconut amount for a more tropical flavor profile.

Perfecting the Baking Process

Baking is a crucial step in this recipe as it allows the flavors to meld and the squares to set correctly. Ensure your oven is fully preheated to 350°F (175°C) before placing the dish inside. This helps achieve those perfectly baked squares with slight golden edges and a fudgy texture in the center. Be vigilant towards the end of the baking time; checking at 25 minutes can help prevent overbaking, which can dry out your dessert.

Using parchment paper is a game changer for easy removal of the squares after cooling. Make sure it's overhanging on the sides of the pan, which will allow you to lift the entire batch out without breaking. If you notice any cracks on the surface while baking, don’t worry! It’s natural and will only enhance the visual appeal.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious chocolate squares:

Ingredients

200g dark chocolate, chopped
100g sweetened shredded coconut
100g pistachios, chopped
100g unsalted butter
1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Make sure to prepare all your ingredients before you start for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to achieve the best results:

Melt the Chocolate and Butter

In a heatproof bowl, combine the chopped dark chocolate and unsalted butter. Place it over a pot of simmering water, making sure the bottom of the bowl doesn't touch the water. Stir until melted and smooth.

Combine Ingredients

Remove the bowl from the heat and stir in sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract. Gradually add flour, sugar, salt, shredded coconut, and chopped pistachios, mixing until well combined.

Bake the Squares

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a square baking dish with parchment paper. Pour the mixture into the dish and spread evenly. Bake for 30 minutes or until set.

Cool and Cut

Let the squares cool completely in the dish on a wire rack. Once cool, lift them out using the parchment paper and cut them into squares.

Enjoy your squares with a cup of coffee or tea!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider drizzling melted white chocolate or a sprinkle of sea salt on top before serving.

Make-Ahead and Storing

These Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Squares can be made a few days in advance, making them a fantastic option for busy schedules. If you’re planning to serve them later, let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. Their flavors only seem to improve as they sit, giving you more reason to prepare them ahead of time!

For longer storage, you can freeze these squares. Cut them into pieces and separate layers with parchment paper before placing them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and bring them to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Serving Suggestions

I love serving these squares dusted with extra shredded coconut or a light drizzle of tempered chocolate for added elegance. Pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side creates a delightful contrast between the warm squares and the cold treat. This combination will surely impress your guests and elevate your dessert experience.

Consider serving them with fresh berries or a fruit coulis for a refreshing touch. The tartness of the berries complements the sweetness of the squares beautifully, creating a well-rounded dessert that appeals to a variety of palates.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, but the squares will be sweeter and less rich in flavor.

→ How should I store the squares?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

→ Can I freeze the squares?

Absolutely! They freeze well for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly.

→ What can I substitute for pistachios?

You can use chopped almonds, walnuts, or even nuts like pecans or cashews.