Chocolate Almond Coconut Squares
Highlighted under: Modern Baking Collection
I love making these Chocolate Almond Coconut Squares because they are a delightful blend of rich chocolate, crunchy almonds, and a hint of coconut. The combination creates a sweet that perfectly balances textures and flavors. Each bite melts in your mouth, and the vibrant aroma fills my kitchen, making it an experience worth savoring. We often prepare this treat for special gatherings, and the response is always overwhelming. They’re incredibly easy to whip up, and with a bit of patience as they cool, you can create a dessert that looks and tastes gourmet.
When I first tried to make these Chocolate Almond Coconut Squares, I wasn't sure if the combination would work. But to my surprise, the rich chocolate flavor paired beautifully with the nutty almonds and the sweetness of the coconut. The key is to let them cool completely before cutting to ensure clean, even squares.
Since then, I’ve experimented with adding a pinch of sea salt on top, which amplifies the chocolate flavor and gives a slight crunch. These squares are not only delicious but also a perfect treat to share with friends, and they store well for days—if they last that long!
Why You'll Love These Squares
- Decadent chocolate and nutty almond combination
- Deliciously chewy with a hint of coconut
- Perfect for a midday treat or special occasion
Understanding the Texture
The combination of dark chocolate and butter creates a luscious base that melts in your mouth. It's essential to melt these ingredients over low heat to avoid seizing the chocolate, which can happen if it gets too hot. When melted properly, the mixture should be glossy and smooth, setting the stage for the fudgy texture of the squares.
Incorporating the flour and cocoa powder correctly is crucial for achieving the perfect density. Overmixing can lead to tough squares, so I recommend carefully folding the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. This gentle approach allows for a delightful chewiness while still keeping a soft interior.
Choosing Quality Ingredients
Using high-quality dark chocolate really makes a difference in this recipe. Aim for chocolate with around 70% cocoa content for a rich flavor that balances the sweetness of the sugar. If you're unable to find dark chocolate, semi-sweet chocolate can be a good substitute, but be mindful that it will alter the overall sweetness of the squares.
When selecting almonds, slivers provide a great crunch, but you can also use chopped nuts for a more rustic look. Toasting them lightly before adding can enhance their flavor, making the bars even more aromatic. Just keep an eye on them in the oven, as nuts can quickly go from toasted to burnt.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create these delicious squares.
Ingredients
- 200g dark chocolate, chopped
- 100g unsalted butter
- 150g granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 100g all-purpose flour
- 50g unsweetened cocoa powder
- 100g almond slivers
- 50g shredded coconut
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Once you have everything ready, you can start preparing the mixture.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your Chocolate Almond Coconut Squares.
Melt Chocolate and Butter
In a medium saucepan, melt the chopped dark chocolate and unsalted butter together over low heat, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and eggs. Whisk together until well combined, then add the melted chocolate mixture and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour and cocoa powder. Gradually fold this mixture into the wet ingredients, being careful not to overmix.
Add Nuts and Coconut
Gently fold in the almond slivers and shredded coconut until evenly distributed.
Bake
Pour the batter into a greased square baking pan and spread evenly. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few crumbs.
Cool and Cut
Allow the squares to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out and cutting into squares. Enjoy!
Don’t forget to share these scrumptious squares with your friends!
Pro Tips
- For an extra touch, sprinkle some sea salt on top before baking to enhance the chocolate flavor.
Storing and Serving Suggestions
Once cooled, these Chocolate Almond Coconut Squares can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, they freeze beautifully. Just be sure to layer parchment paper between squares before placing them in a zip-top bag, as this will prevent sticking.
For serving, consider dusting the tops with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate for an elegant touch. They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, making them a delightful afternoon pick-me-up.
Common Pitfalls and How to Fix Them
One common issue people face is underbaking, leading to overly gooey centers. To test for doneness, look for a slight set around the edges, with the center still soft but not liquid. If unsure, a toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
If the squares seem too dry, it may be due to overbaking or using too much flour. Next time, measure your ingredients with a kitchen scale for precision. If you prefer a more moist square, consider reducing the baking time by a couple of minutes and keeping a close eye on them.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I substitute milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, but it will give a sweeter flavor profile. Adjust sugar accordingly.
→ How should I store the squares?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
→ Can I add other nuts?
Absolutely! Feel free to replace almonds with walnuts or pecans based on your preference.
→ Is it possible to make these gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
Chocolate Almond Coconut Squares
I love making these Chocolate Almond Coconut Squares because they are a delightful blend of rich chocolate, crunchy almonds, and a hint of coconut. The combination creates a sweet that perfectly balances textures and flavors. Each bite melts in your mouth, and the vibrant aroma fills my kitchen, making it an experience worth savoring. We often prepare this treat for special gatherings, and the response is always overwhelming. They’re incredibly easy to whip up, and with a bit of patience as they cool, you can create a dessert that looks and tastes gourmet.
Created by: Ophelia Turner
Recipe Type: Modern Baking Collection
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 16 squares
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 200g dark chocolate, chopped
- 100g unsalted butter
- 150g granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 100g all-purpose flour
- 50g unsweetened cocoa powder
- 100g almond slivers
- 50g shredded coconut
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
How-To Steps
In a medium saucepan, melt the chopped dark chocolate and unsalted butter together over low heat, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
In a mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and eggs. Whisk together until well combined, then add the melted chocolate mixture and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour and cocoa powder. Gradually fold this mixture into the wet ingredients, being careful not to overmix.
Gently fold in the almond slivers and shredded coconut until evenly distributed.
Pour the batter into a greased square baking pan and spread evenly. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few crumbs.
Allow the squares to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out and cutting into squares. Enjoy!
Extra Tips
- For an extra touch, sprinkle some sea salt on top before baking to enhance the chocolate flavor.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 23g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 18g
- Protein: 3g