Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Squares

Name: Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Squares
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup pistachios, chopped; 1 cup shredded coconut; 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Squares as they combine a delightful blend of flavors and textures that are simply irresistible. The rich chocolate complements the nutty crunch of pistachios while the coconut adds a wonderful chewiness. I often prepare these treats for gatherings or simply to satisfy my sweet tooth. Each bite is a perfect harmony of ingredients, and I’ve learned to balance the sweetness for the ideal finish. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a favorite in your home too!

Created by

Katherine Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:28:18.919Z

When I first stumbled upon this recipe for Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Squares, I was intrigued by how seemingly simple ingredients could come together to create such an extraordinary treat. I experimented with different types of chocolate and realized that using dark chocolate enhances the overall flavor profile, making the squares decadent yet balanced.

One of my favorite aspects is how customizable these squares are. I often switch up the nuts based on what's available or even add a hint of sea salt on top to elevate the sweetness. The result is always an indulgent dessert that my friends and family rave about!

        You'll Love These Squares Because
        Rich chocolate flavor combined with crunchy pistachios
Chewy texture from coconut makes every bite delightful
Perfectly sweet without being overwhelming, ideal for any occasion

      

The Perfect Balance of Flavors

Achieving the ideal flavor balance in Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Squares is crucial. The unsweetened cocoa powder provides a deep, rich chocolate flavor that serves as the foundation. Meanwhile, the chopped pistachios add a delightful, nutty crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of the shredded coconut. This combination is designed to be sweet but not overly so. If you find the batter a tad too sweet, you can reduce the sugar slightly, which allows the cocoa and nuts to shine through more prominently.

A key aspect of this recipe is the choice of chocolate chips. Using dark chocolate chips enhances the overall flavor of the squares, as their slight bitterness complements the sweetness from the sugar and coconut. If you're a fan of milk chocolate or white chocolate, feel free to experiment, but remember that the richness of dark chocolate plays a vital role in balancing the flavors.

Texture Matters

The texture of these squares is just as important as their taste. The melted butter helps create a fudgy center, while the addition of shredded coconut introduces a chewy element that makes the squares even more enjoyable. When mixing the batter, make sure not to overmix after adding the dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to dense squares; you want a light and airy consistency. The goal is to mix until you just see the flour disappear, ensuring a tender texture.

Baking time is also critical. Overbaking can dry out the squares, resulting in a less desirable texture. To avoid this, check the squares around the 25-minute mark. Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter. Remember, the squares will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven, so it’s better to err on the side of caution.

Ingredients

For the Squares

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup pistachios, chopped
1 cup shredded coconut
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips

Mix together the ingredients carefully to ensure an even distribution of flavors.

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8-inch square baking pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, and salt.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Fold in the chopped pistachios, shredded coconut, and chocolate chips.

Bake

Spread the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Cut

Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Once cool, cut into squares.

Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Squares with a hot beverage or as a delightful dessert!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, sprinkle sea salt on top before baking to contrast the sweetness.

Storage Tips

Proper storage is key to maintaining the fresh taste and texture of your Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Squares. Once they are completely cool, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them for longer, consider refrigerating them. When refrigerated, they can last up to two weeks. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before enjoying, as they’re best served slightly warmed.

For longer-term storage, these squares freeze wonderfully. Wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or pop them in the microwave for a quick warm-up.

Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Squares can stand alone, but they’re also a great addition to any dessert table. Serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an elegant touch. They pair wonderfully with a hot beverage, such as coffee or a rich dark chocolate drink, enhancing the chocolate flavor even further.

For a festive presentation, consider dusting the squares with powdered sugar or drizzling melted dark chocolate over the top once they have cooled. This adds both visual appeal and an extra layer of flavor, making them even more irresistible at parties or celebrations.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other nuts instead of pistachios?

Absolutely! Almonds or walnuts work great as substitutes.

→ What if I don’t have dark chocolate chips?

Milk chocolate chips will give a sweeter flavor if you prefer that.

→ How can I store these squares?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.