There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a chewy, sweet coconut bar. That’s exactly what you get with these delicious coconut chews, a recipe that I absolutely adore. Originating from the love of coconut-based sweets, these treats perfectly encapsulate the tropical, sweet, and slightly nutty flavor of coconuts, complemented by the crunch of walnuts. The history of coconut in baking is as rich as its flavor. Coconut has been a staple in tropical regions for centuries, and it’s no surprise that it’s found its way into our desserts. The coconut chews are a testament to the versatility of this wonderful ingredient. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of common ingredients and a straightforward method, you’re on your way to creating a batch of these tasty treats. But don’t let the simplicity fool you; the flavors are anything but. The combination of the mild sweetness of the coconut with the rich, earthy walnuts creates a flavor profile that’s truly irresistible. The recipe also includes an Orange-Lemon Icing that adds an extra zing to the coconut bars, making them even more delicious. If you’re a fan of coconut or just love a good, sweet treat, this recipe is a must-try. I love it, and I’m sure you will too!
Ingredients
- 3/4 c. shortening (half butter or margarine)
- 3/4 c. confectioners sugar
- 1 1/2 c. Gold Medal flour
- 2 eggs
- 1 c. brown sugar, packed
- 2 Tbsp. flour
- 1/2 tsp. baking powder
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1/2 tsp. vanilla
- 1/2 c. chopped walnuts
- 1/2 c. flaked coconut
- Orange-Lemon Icing (recipe follows)
Baking Instructions
- Heat oven to 350°.
- Cream shortening and confectioners sugar. Blend in flour.
- Press mixture in bottom of ungreased baking pan (13 x 9 x 2-inches).
- Bake 12 to 15 minutes.
- Mix remaining ingredients; spread over hot, baked layer.
- Bake 20 minutes longer.
- While warm, spread with Orange-Lemon Icing.
- Cool.
- Cut into bars about 3 x 1-inch.
- Makes 32 bars.
Calorie: 0
Total cooking time: 50 minutes
Difficulty level: Easy
The Sweet Saga of Coconut Chews
Ah, there it was! The infamous 3/4 c. of shortening, half butter or margarine, sitting on my countertop like an unwelcome houseguest. You know the one. The one who doesn’t bring wine to dinner parties but never fails to take home leftovers.
A Dance with the Confectioners Sugar
Next, the 3/4 c. confectioners sugar joined the party. As I creamed the shortening and sugar together, I couldn’t help but notice the resemblance to a snowstorm – if snow was sweet and didn’t give me frostbite. I had to remind myself several times; this is not a snowball fight. Resist the urge!
Wrestling with Gold Medal Flour
Then came the 1 1/2 c. Gold Medal flour. We all know the perils of a mishandled flour container. One wrong move and it’s like a ghostly explosion in the kitchen. Fortunately, I navigated this step without looking like a specter.
The Baking Pan Tango
Now, the ‘press mixture in bottom of ungreased baking pan’ step. This 13 x 9 x 2-inches pan and I had a history. Last time, it was a burnt lasagna incident. Today, I was determined to conquer it with my coconut chews.
The Unpredictable Oven
Into the 350° oven, the pan went for a 12 to 15-minute bake. Ah, the suspense! Will it be a golden brown or a tragic black? Only time would tell. And, of course, my slightly unreliable oven timer.
The Madness of Mixing
Meanwhile, I mixed the remaining ingredients: 2 eggs, 1 c. packed brown sugar, 2 Tbsp. flour, 1/2 tsp. each of baking powder and salt, 1/2 tsp. of vanilla, 1/2 c. chopped walnuts, and 1/2 c. flaked coconut. At this point, I felt like an alchemist, but instead of gold, I was seeking the elusive perfect chew.
Icing on the Cake… or Bars
While all this was going down, I prepared the Orange-Lemon Icing. This was the crowning glory, the grand finale, the… icing on the cake, really. This was to be spread over the hot, baked layer, creating a sweet, citrusy blanket of joy.
The Waiting Game
Then came the cooling. The longest wait in the world. I swear I could hear the bars laughing at me from the kitchen counter. But, oh, the sweet victory when I finally cut them into 3 x 1-inch bars.
The Final Verdict
Finally, the taste test. Let’s just say, if dessert bars were a competitive sport, these coconut chews would be gold medalists. So, there you have it. A day in the life of a baking enthusiast. It’s not always pretty, but it’s always delicious.
Wondering about the final count? Thirty-two. Yes, it makes 32 bars. Yes, I ate them all. No, I have no regrets. Well, maybe just one – I should have doubled the recipe.
