A Sweet Treat: Homemade Chocolate Bars and Coconut
Experience the delightful combination of rich chocolate and tropical coconut flavors with these delicious homemade chocolate-covered bars. Unlike store-bought versions, making these bars at home gives you control over the ingredients and the ability to customize them to your taste.
In this post, we’ll explore the history and characteristics of this tasty confection and provide a detailed recipe to guide you through making these delightful bars in your kitchen.
The History and Character of Chocolate Bars with Coconut
A Little History
Chocolate and nuts have long been a popular combination in confections. When commercially produced chocolate bars emerged around the early 20th century, this pairing quickly gained popularity.
Public Recognition
Brands like Mounds and Bounty have cemented their place in the candy world by introducing chocolate bars with nuts and coconut to the general public.
Why We Love Them
The harmonious blend of creamy, sweet coconut filling with rich, velvety chocolate creates a delightful flavor contrast. The combination of a crunchy chocolate coating and a smooth coconut center offers a satisfying textural experience. These bars can be customized with different types of chocolate and additional ingredients to suit various tastes.
Ingredients for Homemade Chocolate Bars with Coconut
To make these homemade chocolate bars, you will need:
- 2 tablespoons of sugar-crusted roasted almonds
- 1/2 cup of sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
Optional for a richer chocolate coating:
- 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder
Method
1. Prepare the Coconut Filling
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until the coconut is well coated with the condensed milk.
- Form the Bars: Using your hands, shape the coconut mixture into small rectangular bars. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. You can make them as big or small as you prefer.
- Chill the Bars: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator and chill the bars for at least 30 minutes to firm them up, making them easier to coat with chocolate.
2. Prepare the Chocolate Coating
- Stovetop Method: Place the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Set the bowl over a pot of simmering water, ensuring the bottom of the bowl does not touch the water. Stir until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
- Microwave Method: Place the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until melted.
Optional: For a smoother and shinier coating, stir in 2 tablespoons of coconut oil into the melted chocolate.
3. Coat the Bars
- Dip the Bars: Using a fork, dip each chilled coconut bar into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is completely covered. Let the excess chocolate drip off before placing the coated bar back on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Repeat: Repeat the dipping process for each bar. If the chocolate begins to harden, gently reheat it as needed.
4. Chill and Serve
- Set the Chocolate: Return the baking sheet to the refrigerator to allow the chocolate to set completely, which should take about 15 to 20 minutes.
- Enjoy: Enjoy these chocolate bars cold for a refreshing treat or at room temperature for a chewier texture.
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
- Freezing: Alternatively, you can freeze the bars for longer storage.
Enjoy your homemade chocolate bars with coconut!