I’m so happy you’re here — because if you love coconut (like, really love it), you’re about to meet your new favorite dessert. These Coconut Chewies are the kind of bar that tastes like something you’d find in a nostalgic bakery window — rich, golden, chewy, and absolutely packed with sweet coconut flavor in every bite.
They’re easy to make, use pantry staples, and come together in one pot. Yes — one pot! No fancy mixers, no multiple bowls. Just buttery coconut goodness baked into a chewy, golden bar that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
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What Are Coconut Chewies?
Coconut Chewies are soft, thick dessert bars made with browned butter, brown sugar, eggs, and sweetened shredded coconut. Think blondies, but with a tropical twist — slightly crisp on the edges, melt-in-your-mouth chewy in the center, and full of rich coconut flavor. They’re easy, satisfying, and totally crave-worthy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-bowl magic — less mess, more flavor!
- Rich, chewy texture that’s never dry.
- Deep, nutty notes from browned butter.
- Packed with sweet coconut — the star of the show!
- Perfect for bake sales, potlucks, or a weekend treat.
What Do Coconut Chewies Taste Like?
Imagine the chew of a blondie, the warmth of caramelized brown sugar, and the tropical sweetness of coconut all wrapped up into a rich, gooey bar. The browned butter brings a nutty depth that balances the sugar beautifully, and the coconut adds texture and that unmistakable flavor we coconut lovers can’t get enough of.
Benefits of This Recipe
- Quick prep, just 15 minutes!
- Made in a single saucepan.
- No mixer needed.
- Uses basic ingredients you likely already have.
- A guaranteed hit with coconut fans!
🧂 Ingredients You’ll Need
- ½ cup butter (1 stick)
- 2 cups brown sugar (light or dark)
- 2 eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1½ cups shredded sweetened coconut
🛠️ Tools You’ll Need
- 8×8-inch baking dish
- Saucepan (medium-large)
- Whisk or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Aluminum foil (for covering during baking)
- Sharp knife for slicing bars
🔄 Ingredient Swaps & Additions
Substitutions:
- Use unsweetened coconut if you prefer a less sweet version.
- Swap brown butter with plain melted butter in a pinch (but browned is best!).
- Use white sugar + molasses if you’re out of brown sugar.
Additions:
- Fold in ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.
- Stir in ½ cup mini chocolate chips for a coconut-chocolate twist.
- Add a dash of cinnamon for warmth.
👩🍳 How to Make Coconut Chewies
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy release.
Step 2: Brown the Butter
In a medium saucepan, melt ½ cup butter over medium-high heat.
Swirl the pan occasionally as it foams, then browns — this takes about 5–6 minutes.
Once the butter turns deep amber and smells nutty, remove from heat.
✨ Tip: Don’t walk away while browning butter — it goes from golden to burnt quickly!
Step 3: Mix in Sugar & Eggs
Immediately stir in 2 cups brown sugar until fully melted and glossy.
Let cool slightly, then whisk in 2 eggs and 2 tsp vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients
Stir in:
- 1½ cups flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
Mix until just combined — don’t overwork the batter.
Step 5: Fold in Coconut
Gently fold in 1½ cups shredded sweetened coconut until evenly distributed.
The batter will be thick and sticky — that’s perfect.
Step 6: Bake
Spread batter evenly into prepared pan.
Bake for 40–45 minutes, covering loosely with foil for the last 10 minutes to prevent over-browning.
The top should be golden and the center just set.
Step 7: Cool & Slice
Let bars cool completely in the pan — this helps them firm up for perfect slicing.
Once cool, cut into 9 squares (or 12 for smaller bites). Serve and enjoy!
🥥 What to Serve With Coconut Chewies
These bars shine all on their own, but if you’re feeling fancy…
- A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream
- A drizzle of dark chocolate ganache
- Toasted coconut flakes on top
- Hot coffee or chai tea for the ultimate cozy pairing
💡 Tips for Perfect Coconut Chewies
- Let the browned butter cool for a minute before adding eggs to avoid scrambling.
- Don’t skip the foil during the last 10 minutes — it keeps the top from getting too dark.
- Use parchment paper for easy removal and clean slicing.
- Store them covered at room temp for max chewiness!
🧊 Storage & Freezing
- Room Temp: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Fridge: Keeps well chilled for up to a week (firmer texture).
- Freezer: Freeze bars in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temp before enjoying.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Use a 9×13-inch pan and watch the baking time — start checking around 35–40 minutes.
Can I make these with unsweetened coconut?
You can! Just know the bars will be a little less sweet and drier, so you may want to add an extra egg or a drizzle of honey.
What if I don’t want to brown the butter?
You can use melted butter instead, but the nutty depth of browned butter really makes these special.
Are they supposed to be gooey in the middle?
Yes — they’re chewy, not cakey! Let them cool fully to set before slicing.
🥥 Final Thoughts
These Coconut Chewies are the kind of treat that seems unassuming… until you take a bite. Then it’s game over. Chewy edges, gooey centers, toasty coconut, and a hint of caramel from that browned butter — anything but boring!
Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just treating yourself, this recipe delivers every time. And if you really want to make someone’s day? Wrap a few of these in parchment, tie with twine, and gift them. They’re that good.
🍫 More Sweet Treats to Love
- Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Blondies
- Toasted Coconut Macaroons
- One-Bowl Fudge Brownies
- Almond Joy Cookie Bars
📸 Share Your Coconut Creations!
If you make this recipe, I’d love to see it!
Tag me on Pinterest or leave a review below. Your feedback helps others find and fall in love with these chewy little coconut dreams. 💛
🧾 Nutritional Info (Per Serving – Based on 9 bars)
- Calories: ~340
- Fat: 17g
- Carbs: 44g
- Sugar: 31g
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 240mg
Note: Nutrition will vary based on ingredients and portion size.
