Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Squares

Name: Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Squares
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut; 1/2 cup chopped pistachios; 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Oven Meals

I absolutely love creating sweet treats that combine unique flavors, and these Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Squares do just that. The rich chocolate contrasts beautifully with the nutty flavors of pistachio and the tropical sweetness of coconut. I've made them for special occasions and simply to satisfy a sweet craving. Each bite offers a delightful mix of textures and tastes that leave you wanting more. Plus, they're incredibly easy to whip up, making them a go-to recipe in my baking arsenal!

Created by

Yvette Harrington

Last updated on 2026-01-15T13:11:36.063Z

When I first decided to experiment with flavors, I stumbled upon this combination while exploring different nut-filled desserts. I was amazed at how well the chocolate, pistachio, and coconut melded together, creating an irresistible treat that was hard to resist. The best part is that you can prepare the mixture in just one bowl, making cleanup a breeze!

One little tip that I've learned over time is to toast the pistachios lightly before adding them in; it enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch to the squares. These treats have since become a family favorite and are always a hit at gatherings!

Why You'll Love These Squares
A delightful blend of rich chocolate, nutty pistachio, and sweet coconut
Easy to make with just one bowl - minimal cleanup required
Perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying as a sweet afternoon snack

The Importance of Ingredients

In baking, each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the desired flavor and texture. The dark chocolate chips not only provide a rich taste but also contribute to the squares' fudgy consistency. Using high-quality chocolate can elevate the overall flavor, making a significant difference in this recipe. If you prefer a sweeter treat, consider using milk chocolate chips instead, but keep an eye on the sweetness level throughout the mixing process.

Pistachios add a delightful crunch and a hint of nuttiness that perfectly balances the chocolate. They also bring a unique color contrast to the finished squares. If you're looking for a nut-free option, feel free to swap in sunflower seeds or omit the nuts altogether while maintaining the other flavors in the recipe.

Techniques for Perfect Squares

When melting the chocolate, be sure to stir continuously and to microwave in 30-second intervals. This prevents overheating, which can cause the chocolate to seize and become unusable. If you notice any clumps even after thorough stirring, try adding a small amount of coconut oil to smooth it out. A glass or ceramic bowl is preferable for melting as they retain heat well without overheating the chocolate too quickly.

After mixing in the other ingredients, pay attention to the consistency of the batter. It should be thick and cohesive, holding together well when pressed into the pan. If it's too loose, consider adding a touch more cocoa powder to firm it up without altering the flavor significantly. Once in the pan, press it down firmly with a spatula to ensure even thickness for uniform cutting later on.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Squares can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To keep them from sticking together, layer parchment paper between each square. If you’d like to enjoy them later, they can also be frozen for up to three months. Just be sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn, and allow them to thaw at room temperature before serving.

For a fun twist, consider serving these squares with a sprinkle of sea salt on top or drizzling them with melted white chocolate for an extra touch of sweetness. They make an excellent addition to dessert platters at gatherings or as a sweet snack to pair with afternoon tea or coffee.

Ingredients

For the Squares

1 cup dark chocolate chips
1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
1/2 cup chopped pistachios
1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Please ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine dark chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth and melted.

Mix the Ingredients

Stir in shredded coconut, chopped pistachios, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until well combined.

Prepare the Pan

Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and pour the chocolate mixture into it. Spread evenly with a spatula.

Chill to Set

Refrigerate the pan for at least 25 minutes, or until the squares are firm.

Cut and Serve

Once set, lift the squares out of the pan using the parchment paper. Cut into 12 squares and enjoy!

Store the leftover squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator!

Pro Tips

For an added touch, sprinkle some extra chopped pistachios on top of the mixture before refrigerating.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If your chocolate doesn’t melt smoothly, there are a couple of things you can do. Firstly, ensure that no water or steam gets into the chocolate as this will cause it to seize. If it does seize, you can try rescuing it by adding a little coconut oil or shortening; this may help smooth it out again.

If the squares don’t set properly in the fridge, you may need to give them more time. Sometimes, a thicker mixture can take a little longer to firm up. If you’re in a hurry, placing them in the freezer for about 10-15 minutes can speed up the process.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable, so if you want to make a larger batch for a gathering, you can simply double the ingredients and use a 9x13-inch pan instead. Just be sure to adjust the chilling time slightly as a thicker layer may take longer to firm up in the fridge.

Conversely, if you want to make a smaller batch, you can halve the ingredients and use a smaller pan, like a 6-inch square baking dish. Keep an eye on the cooling time, as smaller squares will set faster than larger ones.

Variations to Try

For a different flavor profile, consider swapping out the pistachios for another nut, such as chopped almonds or walnuts. Each nut provides its own unique flavor and texture that can change the overall character of the squares. You can also experiment with flavored extracts in place of vanilla, such as almond or orange extract.

If you're a fan of dried fruit, adding some finely chopped dried cherries or cranberries would give a tangy burst that complements the chocolate and coconut beautifully. Just be cautious with the amount, as too much fruit can alter the balance of the mixture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can substitute milk chocolate for a sweeter flavor.

→ How should I store the squares?

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

→ Can I use other nuts instead of pistachios?

Absolutely! Almonds or walnuts can work well in this recipe.

→ Is it possible to freeze these squares?

Yes, you can freeze them. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.