Chocolate Coconut Fudge Squares
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
When I first made these Chocolate Coconut Fudge Squares, I was struck by how quickly they came together and how rich they turned out. The combination of smooth chocolate and chewy coconut creates an irresistible treat that’s perfect for sharing or indulging in the comfort of home. With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe is a great excuse to satisfy a chocolate craving. Whether you serve them at a party or keep them all for yourself, they are sure to impress with their decadent flavor.
Making these Chocolate Coconut Fudge Squares was an adventure that delighted my taste buds. I used high-quality dark chocolate, which enhanced the depth of flavor, making the fudge not just a treat but an experience. The addition of coconut gives each bite a subtle crunch and a tropical vibe that takes this simple recipe to another level.
One tip I learned along the way is to let the fudge cool completely before cutting it into squares. This ensures cleaner edges and a more aesthetically pleasing presentation. Trust me, the wait is worth it when you see those perfectly cut squares!
Why You Will Love These Squares
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with chewy coconut
- A perfect balance of sweetness and texture
- Quick and easy to make with no baking required
Mastering the Melting Process
Melting chocolate is a key step in making these fudge squares, and it's important to control the heat carefully. Use a medium saucepan over medium heat for the best results. Stir continuously to prevent the chocolate from seizing. It should melt slowly into a glossy, smooth consistency—this should take about 5 to 7 minutes. If you notice any lumps or if the chocolate starts to look grainy, you’ve likely overheated it. In that case, lift it off the heat immediately and stir in a tablespoon of hot water to restore its silky texture.
When choosing your chocolate chips, opt for high-quality dark chocolate for a richer flavor. Brands with at least 60% cocoa content work well here, providing a nice balance of sweetness and depth. If you prefer, you can substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips, but keep in mind that this will affect the overall sweetness. Remember that the chocolate and condensed milk mixture forms the base of your fudge, so a good melt is essential for that indulgent, silky mouthfeel.
Perfecting Texture and Flavor
Incorporating the shredded coconut is a crucial step to achieving that delightful chewiness that distinguishes these squares. Choose sweetened shredded coconut for optimal flavor, and ensure it’s evenly distributed throughout the mixture when combining ingredients. The coconut not only adds texture but also a hint of tropical flavor, balancing the richness of the chocolate. If you prefer a subtler coconut flavor, consider using unsweetened shredded coconut or finely chopping the sweetened variety before mixing it in to reduce bulk.
After pouring the mixture into your prepared pan, pressing it down firmly but gently ensures even setting and makes cutting easier later. You can use an offset spatula to spread the mixture smoothly. For a little extra flavor, consider sprinkling some sea salt on top before chilling—it enhances the fudge and balances the sweetness beautifully. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also fold in a handful of chopped nuts or even dried fruit for added texture.
Ingredients
For the Fudge Squares
- 2 cups dark chocolate chips
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Instructions
Prepare the Pan
Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal.
Melt the Chocolate
In a medium saucepan, combine the dark chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk over medium heat. Stir continuously until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
Combine Ingredients
Remove from heat and mix in the shredded coconut, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
Pour and Chill
Pour the mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.
Cut into Squares
Once firm, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper. Cut into squares and serve.
Pro Tips
- For an extra touch, consider drizzling melted chocolate on top before chilling or sprinkling more coconut for decoration.
Storage Tips
These Chocolate Coconut Fudge Squares can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. To keep them fresh, place parchment paper between layers to prevent them from sticking together. If you want to make a larger batch, you can also freeze the squares. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer-safe container. They will keep well for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
For those looking to customize or modify the recipe for different dietary needs, you can make these squares dairy-free by using vegan chocolate chips and a non-dairy sweetened condensed milk alternative. This switch won’t compromise the flavor or the texture, allowing a wider audience to enjoy this delectable treat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these fudge squares as a delightful afternoon snack alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea. They also make an excellent addition to dessert platters at parties or holiday gatherings. To elevate the experience, cut the squares into larger rectangles and serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a luscious chocolate-coconut sundae.
If you want to impress guests, consider drizzling melted chocolate over the top before serving or dusting them with cocoa powder or shredded coconut for an extra touch. This adds a decorative element while enhancing the overall chocolate and coconut theme. Don’t forget to have napkins on hand; these squares can get a bit messy with all their richness!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, milk chocolate can be used, but it will result in a sweeter fudge.
→ How should I store the fudge?
Keep the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
→ Can these squares be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the squares for up to three months. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper.
→ What can I substitute for sweetened shredded coconut?
Unsweetened coconut can be used, but you may want to adjust the sugar in the recipe for desired sweetness.
Chocolate Coconut Fudge Squares
When I first made these Chocolate Coconut Fudge Squares, I was struck by how quickly they came together and how rich they turned out. The combination of smooth chocolate and chewy coconut creates an irresistible treat that’s perfect for sharing or indulging in the comfort of home. With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe is a great excuse to satisfy a chocolate craving. Whether you serve them at a party or keep them all for yourself, they are sure to impress with their decadent flavor.
Created by: Adele Summers
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 16 squares
What You'll Need
For the Fudge Squares
- 2 cups dark chocolate chips
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
How-To Steps
Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal.
In a medium saucepan, combine the dark chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk over medium heat. Stir continuously until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
Remove from heat and mix in the shredded coconut, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
Pour the mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.
Once firm, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper. Cut into squares and serve.
Extra Tips
- For an extra touch, consider drizzling melted chocolate on top before chilling or sprinkling more coconut for decoration.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 90mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 22g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 18g
- Protein: 2g