These Coconut Chewies are a simple, irresistible dessert that combines the rich flavors of brown sugar, butter, and sweetened coconut. With their soft, chewy texture and slightly crispy edges, they’re perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or just enjoying them as a snack, these coconut chewies are sure to become a favorite.
Let’s dive into the easy-to-follow recipe for these delicious coconut treats!
Ingredients:
- ½ cup butter, melted
- 2 cups brown sugar, packed
- 2 eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups shredded sweetened coconut
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
- Melt the butter: In a microwave-safe bowl or on the stovetop, melt the ½ cup of butter.
- Mix in the brown sugar: In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and 2 cups of brown sugar. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
- Add the eggs and vanilla: Beat in the 2 eggs, one at a time, followed by the 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, until the mixture is well-combined and smooth.
3. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
- Combine the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the 1 ½ cups of flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 1 teaspoon salt.
- Incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
4. Add the Coconut:
- Stir in the shredded coconut: Fold in the 1 ½ cups of shredded sweetened coconut until it is evenly distributed throughout the batter.
5. Bake the Coconut Chewies:
- Transfer the batter to the baking dish: Pour the batter into the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it out evenly using a spatula.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool and Serve:
- Cool completely: Remove the dish from the oven and allow the coconut chewies to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes.
- Cut and serve: Once cooled, cut the coconut chewies into squares or bars and serve.
Why You’ll Love These Coconut Chewies:
- Chewy and Gooey Texture: The combination of brown sugar and butter creates a soft, chewy texture that is hard to resist.
- Coconut Flavor: The sweetened shredded coconut adds a tropical flair and a slight chewiness that complements the soft base.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these coconut chewies come together quickly and easily.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether for a party, potluck, or an afternoon snack, these bars are sure to be a hit with coconut lovers!
Tips for Success:
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix just until incorporated to avoid tough, dry bars.
- Use Sweetened Coconut: Sweetened shredded coconut adds just the right amount of sweetness and moisture to the bars.
- Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on the bars as they bake. They should be lightly golden on top but still soft in the center. Overbaking can lead to dry bars.
Variations:
- Add Chocolate Chips: Stir in ½ cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a chocolatey twist.
- Top with Powdered Sugar: Dust the top of the coconut chewies with a light coating of powdered sugar after they cool for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Add Nuts: Fold in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to add crunch and a nutty flavor.
These Coconut Chewies are the perfect blend of rich brown sugar, buttery goodness, and sweet coconut. They’re easy to make, full of flavor, and sure to be a hit with anyone who loves coconut. Enjoy them on their own, or get creative by adding extras like chocolate chips or nuts. This versatile recipe is perfect for any occasion and will quickly become a go-to dessert in your kitchen!
