Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Squares

Name: Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup dark chocolate, coarsely chopped; 1/2 cup unsalted pistachios, shelled and chopped; 1 cup shredded coconut, toasted; 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Highlighted under: Home Baking Favorites

I can’t get enough of these Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Squares! Their rich, creamy texture combined with the crunch of pistachios and the sweetness of coconut makes them utterly irresistible. I love how simple they are to whip up, and they never fail to impress guests. With just a few ingredients, you can create a treat that feels indulgent but doesn't take all day to prepare. Perfect for a sweet snack or a star dessert, these squares have quickly become my go-to recipe.

Created by

Hannah Lewis

Last updated on 2026-01-14T08:33:34.916Z

When I first combined chocolate and pistachio, I couldn’t have imagined how well they blended. The nutty flavor of pistachios complements the sweetness of chocolate in a way that’s just magical. I also experimented with adding coconut, which brought a wonderful tropical vibe to these squares. I found that toasting the coconut slightly before mixing gives it a deeper flavor and enhances the texture.

As I served these to friends, the combination of creamy chocolate, crunchy pistachios, and chewy coconut received rave reviews. They’re incredibly versatile too; you can easily adjust the nuts based on what's on hand or your personal taste. I especially love how they keep well in the fridge, so they are perfect for making in advance for any gathering.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy pistachios
Chewy coconut adds a delightful texture
Easy to make and perfect for sharing

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of these Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Squares is the rich dark chocolate, which provides not just flavor but also a smooth, decadent texture. When melting chocolate, be careful to avoid overheating. If you do, it can seize and become grainy. Heating it in short intervals and stirring regularly helps achieve that glossy, smooth consistency you’re looking for. Choose high-quality chocolate with at least 60% cocoa content for the best results.

Pistachios bring a lovely crunch and a hint of nuttiness that balances the sweetness of the coconut and chocolate. You can experiment by toasting the pistachios before chopping them to enhance their flavor. Just keep an eye on them in the oven to ensure they don’t burn—about 5 to 7 minutes at 350°F (175°C) should do the trick. If you're looking for a nut-free option, sunflower seeds could serve as a great alternative.

Crucial Techniques for Success

Making sure the chocolate-butter mixture is perfectly melted and smooth is crucial. Overheating can lead to an undesirable texture, so use a microwave-safe bowl and start with 30-second intervals, stirring in between. This method allows for gradual heating and makes it easier to control the consistency, ensuring it’s not too hot when you add the sweetened condensed milk, which can cause it to seize up.

Mixing the ingredients thoroughly is important for uniform flavor distribution. After adding the shredded coconut and chopped pistachios to the melted chocolate, ensure that there aren’t any clumps. Use a spatula to fold the ingredients gently until everything is well combined. This step also allows you to check the consistency; it should hold together nicely but not be overly sticky.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once the squares are set, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If you prefer a firmer texture, try keeping them in the fridge longer before serving. For added flair, you might want to serve them with a drizzle of melted chocolate or a sprinkle of sea salt on top. Both not only enhance the visual appeal but also bring an extra layer of flavor to each bite.

If you want to make these squares ahead of time, you can prepare the mixture and refrigerate it in the pan. Before serving, it’s ideal to cut them into squares and let them sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. This will soften slightly, making them easier to chew while still maintaining their shape.

Ingredients

Chocolate, coarsely chopped
Pistachios, shelled and chopped
Shredded coconut
Sweetened condensed milk
Butter

Ingredients

1 cup dark chocolate, coarsely chopped
1/2 cup unsalted pistachios, shelled and chopped
1 cup shredded coconut, toasted
1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Additional pistachios for garnish
Optional sea salt for finishing

Instructions

Gather all your ingredients and prepare a baking pan lined with parchment paper. This will make it easy to lift the squares out once set.

Melt the Chocolate

In a medium bowl, melt the chopped dark chocolate with the butter in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the sweetened condensed milk, followed by the toasted coconut and chopped pistachios. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully combined.

Pour and Set

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. 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. Cut into 16 squares and sprinkle with additional chopped pistachios and a pinch of sea salt, if desired.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Pro Tips

To enhance the flavor, try adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract during the mixing step. You can also substitute almonds or walnuts for the pistachios if preferred.

Making Variations

While the classic recipe is delightful as is, there are endless variations you can try to make these squares your own. Consider adding citrus zest, like orange or lemon, to the chocolate mixture for a refreshing kick. Alternatively, spices like cinnamon or cardamom can give a warm, aromatic twist to the flavor profile. These additions create a unique experience while still keeping the integrity of the original recipe.

For a different texture, you can swap out the shredded coconut for other ingredients like quinoa flakes or even crushed graham crackers. Each substitution will alter the texture and flavor slightly, so feel free to experiment until you find the combination that satisfies your palate!

Troubleshooting Tips

If your squares are too soft and don't hold their shape after cutting, this may be due to insufficient chilling time. Ensure you refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes, though it may benefit from a longer stint in the fridge if your kitchen is warm. Alternatively, if over-melting caused the chocolate to seize, incorporating small amounts of warm milk can help rejuvenate the mixture before setting.

If you notice the chocolate is dull or not shiny after cutting, it may be due to improper cooling. Allow them to cool completely in the refrigerator without too much exposure to humidity of the fridge, which can cause condensation on the surface. A good cooling method prevents that dullness and ensures your squares look as enticing as they taste.

Serving Ideas

These Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Squares can double as a great centerpiece for gatherings. Consider arranging them on a decorative platter, interspersing with fresh fruits like strawberries or raspberries to create an eye-catching contrast. Not only does this enhance the presentation, but the acidity from the fruit beautifully balances the richness of the squares.

For a more casual serving option, cut them into smaller bite-sized pieces and offer them at parties or events as part of a dessert table. They pair wonderfully with coffee or a dessert wine, providing an excellent finish to any meal. Make sure to have napkins handy—they might disappear quickly!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use white chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, white chocolate can be used, but the flavor will be sweeter and less intense.

→ Are there any nut-free options for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can omit the nuts and replace them with more shredded coconut or dried fruit.

→ How should I store the chocolate squares?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge to keep them fresh.

→ Can I freeze these squares?

Yes, you can freeze them for up to three months; just ensure they are well-wrapped.