Chocolate Coconut Fudge Bars

Name: Chocolate Coconut Fudge Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut; 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Simple Recipes

I love making these Chocolate Coconut Fudge Bars whenever I need a quick and indulgent treat. The combination of dark chocolate and shredded coconut creates a rich and satisfying flavor that is hard to resist. With only a few ingredients, this recipe is effortless to put together, making it perfect for busy days or unexpected guests. Plus, these bars are great for sharing during gatherings, and I find they never last long! Just be prepared for everyone to ask for the recipe!

Created by

Wendy Ashbourne

Last updated on 2026-01-05T18:41:34.706Z

When I first experimented with these Chocolate Coconut Fudge Bars, I was amazed by how simple the process was yet how delicious the result turned out to be. I used high-quality dark chocolate which melted beautifully, creating the perfect foundation. More importantly, mixing in the shredded coconut brought a delightful chewiness that complemented the rich chocolate so well.

One of my favorite tips is to let the bars cool completely before attempting to cut them. This ensures that they hold their shape and provide clean, precise pieces. Every time I serve these, people rave about them—and I love how they can easily be customized with different nuts or dried fruits if you want to mix things up!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with sweet coconut flakes
Soft, chewy texture that satisfies every sweet craving
Quick and easy to make with minimal ingredients

      

Perfecting the Fudge Texture

Achieving the ideal texture in your Chocolate Coconut Fudge Bars is all about the melting process. When melting the dark chocolate chips with sweetened condensed milk, use short bursts in the microwave to prevent burning. Stirring between intervals allows for even melting and results in a glossy consistency. If you notice your mixture is too thick, a teaspoon of coconut oil can help loosen it without altering the flavor.

The addition of sweetened shredded coconut not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to the fudgy texture. It provides a delightful chewiness that contrasts beautifully with the smooth chocolate. Be sure to use finely shredded coconut to ensure that it incorporates well into the mixture, rather than creating clumps that might not set evenly.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Chocolate Coconut Fudge Bars can be prepared in advance, making them an excellent option for parties or busy weeks. Once cut into bars, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will remain fresh for up to two weeks, though I find they rarely last that long! For longer storage, you can freeze the bars; just wrap each piece in wax paper and then place them in a freezer-safe container to avoid freezer burn.

When ready to enjoy, simply take them out of the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 15 minutes. This method ensures that they maintain their fudgy texture without becoming too soft or melting away. If you're serving these bars at an event, consider cutting them into bite-sized pieces for easy sharing.

Ingredients

For the Fudge Bars

1 cup dark chocolate chips
1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut
1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Instructions

Melt the chocolate

In a medium-sized microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Heat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until completely melted and smooth.

Mix in the ingredients

Once melted, stir in the shredded coconut, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until well combined.

Prepare the pan

Line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later. Pour the chocolate mixture into the dish and spread it evenly.

Chill and cut

Place the dish in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes, or until the fudge is firm. Once set, lift it out using the parchment paper and cut into bars.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add nuts, dried fruits, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top before chilling for extra flavor!

Ingredient Facts

Dark chocolate is not only the star ingredient in these bars but also an excellent source of antioxidants. Choose high-quality dark chocolate with at least 60% cocoa content for a richer flavor. If you're looking for a vegan alternative, opt for dairy-free chocolate chips, which will work just as well in this recipe.

Sweetened condensed milk adds creaminess and sweetness, but if you're avoiding dairy, coconut cream can be a fantastic substitute. It will give your fudge a lovely coconut flavor while keeping it rich and smooth. Just ensure that the coconut cream is full-fat for the best results.

Serving Suggestions

These fudge bars are perfect on their own, but you can elevate them further by drizzling a bit of melted chocolate on top before chilling. This adds an extra layer of decadence and makes them look even more appealing at gatherings. Garnishing with a sprinkle of extra shredded coconut or crushed nuts can also add texture and visual flair.

For a fun twist, consider serving these bars with a scoop of coconut ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful dessert. Pairing the fudge with a side of fresh berries can also balance the richness, making for a well-rounded treat that appeals to both chocolate and fruit lovers alike.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can substitute milk chocolate, but the flavor will be sweeter and less rich.

→ How should I store the fudge bars?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

→ Can I freeze these fudge bars?

Absolutely! Just wrap them tightly and they can be frozen for up to three months.

→ What can I use instead of sweetened condensed milk?

You can use coconut cream as a vegan alternative, but it may alter the sweetness and texture slightly.