Ingredients
Crust
- 1 ½ cup fine graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup + 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- ¾ teaspoon fine sea salt, separated
Filling and Topping
- 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk (not evaporated milk)
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ¾ cup unsweetened coconut flakes
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8″x8″ baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Crust: In a small mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and ½ teaspoon of the fine sea salt. Mix thoroughly, then press firmly and evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust.
- Add Sweetened Condensed Milk: Pour the entire can of sweetened condensed milk evenly over the graham cracker crust, then sprinkle the remaining ¼ teaspoon of salt evenly over the top.
- Layer Chocolate and Coconut: Scatter the semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly over the condensed milk layer, followed by an even layer of unsweetened coconut flakes. Use the tines of a fork to gently press the chocolate chips and coconut into the condensed milk slightly, ensuring they adhere well.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 28 to 30 minutes, or until the coconut topping is tinged golden brown and the filling is set.
- Cool: Remove from the oven and carefully run a sharp knife along the edges of the baking dish to loosen the bars. Allow to cool completely for 30 minutes to 1 hour to set fully.
- Serve: Once cooled, cut into 12 bars or 16 squares, serve, and enjoy your decadent Chocolate Coconut Bars!
Notes
- Make sure to use sweetened condensed milk, not evaporated milk, for the proper gooey texture.
- You can adjust the amount of chocolate chips or coconut flakes to your preference.
- Pressing the toppings gently into the condensed milk helps them stick and bake evenly.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to achieve clean slices.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 28 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
