Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Squares

Name: Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Squares
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 200g dark chocolate (chopped); 100g sweetened shredded coconut; 100g pistachios (chopped); 50g unsalted butter; 200g sweetened condensed milk; 1 tsp vanilla extract; A pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Baked Collection

I absolutely love making Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Squares because they are effortlessly delicious and perfect for any occasion. The combination of rich chocolate, crunchy pistachios, and the chewiness of coconut creates a perfect harmony of flavors. I often prepare these treats as a delightful dessert to impress my friends and family. Plus, they are surprisingly simple to make and require minimal ingredients. If you’re looking for a sweet indulgence that’s easy to whip up, these squares are the ideal choice!

Created by

Hester Lockwood

Last updated on 2026-01-14T05:01:35.318Z

When I first stumbled upon the idea of combining chocolate with pistachios and coconut, I knew I had to give it a try. The flavors meld so beautifully together, and I was genuinely surprised by how much everyone loved these squares. They have quickly become my go-to recipe for gatherings and celebrations.

One thing I learned during my baking adventures is to always toast the pistachios beforehand. It enhances their flavor and adds an extra crunch that elevates the entire dessert. I can’t wait for you to try making these delicious treats!

Why You'll Love These Squares
Rich chocolate flavor paired with the crunch of pistachios
Chewy and sweet coconut adds texture and depth
A perfect balance of flavors that delights every palate

The Perfect Chocolate Melt

Melting chocolate is a critical step in achieving a smooth texture for your squares. Use a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water for gentle melting, as this method helps prevent the chocolate from seizing. If using a microwave, heat in short bursts of 20-30 seconds, stirring in between, until it’s glossy and smooth. Be careful not to overheat; burnt chocolate can develop a bitter taste, which could affect the flavor balance of your squares.

Ensure your butter is at room temperature before adding it to the chocolate mixture. This allows it to melt uniformly, combining seamlessly with the chocolate. If you find the mixture too thick after adding the condensed milk, return it to gentle heat while stirring to achieve a pourable consistency. This ensures that all ingredients bond well, leading to a fudgy, rich base once set.

The Role of Ingredients

Each ingredient plays a vital role in the overall flavor and texture of these Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Squares. The dark chocolate not only provides a rich, decadent taste, but it also acts as the main bonding agent when combined with the sweetened condensed milk. This creates a luscious texture that contrasts beautifully with the crunchy pistachios and chewy coconut, giving each bite a multifaceted experience.

Sweetened shredded coconut is essential for that chewy texture and sweetness. If you're looking for a healthier alternative, you can use unsweetened coconut, though you might want to adjust the amount of condensed milk to balance the flavors. The pistachios add both crunch and a slightly salty note that enhances the richness of the chocolate and cuts through the sweetness, making each square a delight.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

To keep your Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Squares fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to two weeks, but I bet they won’t last that long! If you want to enjoy them beyond that time frame, consider freezing them. Cut the squares into pieces and layer them between sheets of parchment paper before placing in a container. They freeze well for up to three months, and you can enjoy them straight from the freezer for a cool treat.

Serving these squares can be just as fun as making them. For a simple presentation, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle melted chocolate on top. You can also experiment with additional toppings like crushed pistachios or toasted coconut for added texture. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or some fresh berries for a delightful dessert that will impress guests at any gathering.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious squares:

Ingredients

200g dark chocolate (chopped)
100g sweetened shredded coconut
100g pistachios (chopped)
50g unsalted butter
200g sweetened condensed milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
A pinch of salt

Mix these ingredients to achieve a delightful treat!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your squares:

Melt the Chocolate

In a heatproof bowl, combine the chopped dark chocolate and unsalted butter. Melt over a double boiler or in the microwave, stirring until smooth.

Mix the Ingredients

Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, chopped pistachios, shredded coconut, and a pinch of salt until well combined.

Prepare the Baking Dish

Line a square baking dish (about 8x8 inches) with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. Pour the mixture into the dish and spread it evenly.

Chill and Set

Refrigerate the mixture for about 25 minutes, or until firm. Once set, lift out using the parchment paper, and cut into squares.

Enjoy your homemade chocolate pistachio coconut squares!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, drizzle melted chocolate over the top before cutting into squares. You can also add more pistachios for added crunch.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If your chocolate seizes while melting, it might have come into contact with water. To salvage it, you can try adding a teaspoon of vegetable oil or additional butter to the mixture, stirring until it becomes smooth again. Always ensure your mixing tools are completely dry before starting to prevent this from happening.

If your squares do not set properly, it could be due to too much liquid from the sweetened condensed milk or insufficient chilling time. Next time, try refrigerating them for a little longer, checking for firmness. It should feel solid but slightly yielding when pressed. If you prefer a firmer texture, adjust the amount of coconut for better structure.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to customize the flavors of your Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Squares! You can experiment with different types of chocolate, such as milk or white chocolate, for a unique twist. Each type will offer a different level of sweetness and creaminess, which can alter the overall taste profile significantly. For an added layer of flavor, consider incorporating a teaspoon of espresso powder into the chocolate mixture to enhance the chocolate’s richness.

Adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can introduce warmth and depth to the squares. Alternatively, consider mixing in dried fruit such as cranberries or apricots for a fruity contrast to the rich chocolate. These variations will not only change the taste but also elevate the visual appeal of your dessert.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter taste!

→ How long do these squares last?

They can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I make these squares vegan?

You can substitute the butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate for a vegan version.

→ Is there an alternative to sweetened condensed milk?

Yes, you can make your own by combining coconut milk with sugar and boiling it down until thick.