Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Squares

Name: Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut; 1/2 cup chopped pistachios; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Modern Baking Recipes

I love making Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Squares whenever I want a sweet treat that feels a bit fancy. The combination of rich chocolate, crunchy pistachios, and toasted coconut always impresses my friends and family. With just a few simple steps, you can create a dessert that's not only delicious but also visually stunning. Each bite is a delightful blend of textures and flavors, making these squares perfect for any occasion, whether it's a cozy night in or a festive gathering.

Created by

Marlowe Sinclair

Last updated on 2026-01-14T03:29:36.429Z

When I first made these Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Squares, I was blown away by the balance of flavors. The dark chocolate pairs beautifully with the nutty pistachios and sweet coconut, creating a delightful treat that everyone loves. I especially enjoy the contrast between the creamy texture of the chocolate and the crunchy bits of nuts, making each bite a thrilling experience.

To ensure the best taste, I recommend toasting the coconut lightly before mixing it in. This simple step enhances the coconut’s natural sweetness and adds a rich, caramel-like flavor that takes these squares to the next level. Believe me, your friends will be asking for this recipe!

        Why You'll Love These Squares
        Decadent chocolate flavor combined with buttery pistachios
Crunchy texture contrasted with rich chocolate smoothness
Easy to make, perfect for desserts or snacks

      

The Role of Ingredients

The key to the decadent flavor of these Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Squares lies in your choice of dark chocolate. Opt for high-quality chocolate chips with at least 60% cocoa content for a rich taste that balances beautifully with the sweetness of the condensed milk. Using chocolate with a higher cocoa percentage will enhance the overall depth of flavor in the squares, making each bite an experience to savor.

Pistachios not only contribute a delightful crunch, but they also bring a unique nutty flavor that complements the chocolate. If you’re feeling adventurous, try substituting with macadamia nuts or walnuts for a different twist. Just be sure to chop them evenly to ensure consistency throughout the squares. The shredded coconut, toasted lightly, adds a hint of tropical flair and texture that makes these squares stand out.

Perfecting Your Technique

When melting chocolate, patience is key. If you heat the chocolate too quickly or at too high a temperature, it can seize up, becoming grainy and unusable. Stirring after each 30-second interval ensures that the chocolate melts evenly and maintains a smooth texture. If it does seize, you can salvage it by adding a small amount of vegetable oil or coconut oil to restore its consistency.

Make sure to fold in the coconut and pistachios gently after combining the wet and dry ingredients. Over-mixing can cause the nuts and coconut to break down too much, resulting in uneven texture. Aim for a well-distributed mixture while still maintaining the integrity of the add-ins—this allows each square to have the perfect blend of chocolate and crunch.

Ingredients

For the Squares

1 cup dark chocolate chips
1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut
1/2 cup chopped pistachios
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

Make sure to use quality ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Prepare the Pan

Line an 8x8 inch pan with parchment paper and set aside.

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.

Combine Ingredients

In the melted chocolate, mix in the cocoa powder, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and salt until well blended.

Add Nuts and Coconut

Fold in the shredded coconut and chopped pistachios until evenly distributed.

Pour and Set

Pour the mixture into the prepared pan, spread evenly, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until set.

Cut and Serve

Once set, lift the squares out of the pan using the parchment paper and cut into 16 squares. Enjoy!

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.

Pro Tips

For an extra twist, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before refrigerating for a delicious sweet and salty combination.

Storing and Serving

To keep your Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Squares fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator where they can last for up to a week. This helps maintain their texture and flavor, especially if you live in a warm climate. If you prefer a softer texture, let them sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before serving; they taste delightful slightly warmed.

For an elegant presentation at gatherings, consider dusting the tops of the squares with a light sprinkle of cocoa powder or shredded coconut just before serving. You could also drizzle them with melted white chocolate for a fancy touch that contrasts nicely with the dark chocolate base.

Variations to Try

This recipe easily lends itself to variations based on your preferences. For a fruitier flavor profile, try swirling in some almond or hazelnut spread with the melted chocolate. You can also incorporate chopped dried fruits like cranberries or apricots alongside the nuts for a burst of tartness that complements the richness of the chocolate.

If you're looking to make these squares a bit healthier, consider swapping the regular sweetened condensed milk for a homemade version using coconut milk and a natural sweetener. This not only makes it dairy-free but also adds a tropical twist to complement the coconut in the recipe.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, but keep in mind that the sweetness will increase, and you may want to adjust the amount of sweetened condensed milk.

→ How should I store these squares?

Keep the squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

→ Can I make these squares nut-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute the pistachios with sunflower seeds or simply omit them entirely.

→ Is it possible to freeze these squares?

Yes, you can freeze them! Just wrap each square individually, and they will last for up to three months in the freezer.