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 chips; 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut; 1 cup pistachios, chopped; 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Golden Planning

I absolutely adore these Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Squares! Every time I make them, my kitchen fills with the sweet, nutty scent that truly signifies indulgence. With a perfect balance of rich chocolate, crunchy pistachios, and chewy coconut, they are a treat that never fails to impress. They are also delightfully simple to whip up, making them an instant favorite among my friends and family. I love sharing these squares at gatherings, where they quickly disappear and everyone ends up asking for the recipe!

Created by

Portia Langford

Last updated on 2026-01-15T19:35:35.526Z

When I first tried making these squares, I was amazed at how simple yet satisfying they were. The combination of chocolate and coconut is a classic, but adding pistachios elevates them to a whole new level. I particularly enjoy using fresh ingredients, making every bite a burst of flavor. One key tip I've learned is to toast the pistachios lightly; it brings out their natural oils and enhances that nutty flavor.

Sharing these squares with friends is always a joy. I love how they are perfect for both holidays and casual get-togethers. I’ve found that cutting them into small squares allows everyone to enjoy a piece without feeling guilty. Plus, they keep well in the fridge, so I often have some on hand for unexpected guests!

Why You'll Love These Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Squares
The delightful combination of rich chocolate and nutty pistachios
Chewy, textured bite from shredded coconut that satisfies every craving
Simple enough for a weeknight treat yet elegant for special occasions

Understanding the Ingredients

The combination of dark chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk is crucial for achieving the perfect balance of rich and creamy texture. The chocolate chips melt down into a silky base while the condensed milk adds sweetness and moisture, ensuring that the squares don’t dry out during baking. Using high-quality chocolate is key; go for something you’d enjoy eating on its own, as it will greatly influence the overall flavor of the finished product.

Pistachios not only contribute a delightful crunch but also infuse the squares with their unique, earthy nutty flavor. When chopping the pistachios, try to keep them on the coarser side rather than finely chopping them, as larger pieces will provide a better texture contrast with the smooth chocolate and soft coconut. If you have a nut allergy or prefer a different flavor, feel free to substitute the pistachios with almonds or cashews.

Mastering the Baking Process

Baking these squares at the correct temperature is essential for achieving the ideal texture. A preheated oven set to 350°F (175°C) ensures that the edges become lightly golden while the center remains soft and moist. Keep a close eye on the baking time; if the tops are not golden after 25 minutes, check every minute to prevent overbaking, which may result in a dry texture. The cookies should appear slightly firm along the edges and still soft in the center when done.

Cooling is just as important as baking. Allow the squares to cool completely in the pan before cutting them, as this will help them firm up and hold their shape better. If you’re in a hurry, you can expedite the cooling process by moving the pan to a cooler surface or placing it in the refrigerator for a short while. Avoid cutting the squares while they are warm, as they may crumble and lose their shape.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your delicious squares!

For the Squares

1 cup dark chocolate chips
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
1 cup pistachios, chopped
1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Once you have everything ready, you're set to start creating!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your wonderful squares.

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 a large mixing bowl, combine the melted chocolate, shredded coconut, chopped pistachios, sweetened condensed milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.

Set Up the Pan

Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper. Pour the mixture into the pan, spreading it evenly.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25 minutes until lightly golden on top.

Cool and Cut

Let the squares cool completely in the pan before lifting them out and cutting them into squares.

Enjoy your delightful creation! They can be stored in the fridge for extra chewiness.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider drizzling melted chocolate over the cooled squares before cutting them into pieces.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Squares can be made ahead of time, making them a perfect addition to your meal prep or for holiday gatherings. Store the cooled squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Cut the squares into portions and wrap each one in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container. They can last up to three months in the freezer, and you can defrost them in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

When you’re ready to serve, consider adding a touch of flair. Drizzling melted chocolate over the top or sprinkling extra chopped pistachios can elevate their visual appeal. If you prefer a bolder flavor profile, you could swap regular unsweetened shredded coconut for toasted coconut, which adds a slight nuttiness and crunch that complements the other ingredients perfectly.

Variations to Consider

Feel free to experiment with ingredient ratios or add in your favorite flavors to customize these squares. For a little tropical twist, try adding dried fruits like mango or pineapple alongside the coconut, kicking up the chewiness factor. Alternatively, mix in a tablespoon of instant espresso powder for a mocha flavor that pairs beautifully with the chocolate. If you are preparing these for a vegan audience, substitute the condensed milk with coconut cream and the butter with a plant-based alternative.

These squares can also be made in various sizes depending on your serving needs. Instead of an 8x8 inch pan, use a larger pan to create thinner squares, or use mini muffin tins to create smaller, bite-sized treats. The baking time may vary, so start checking at 15 minutes for mini portions, or adjust according to the thickness of your chosen baking dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, but keep in mind that milk chocolate will be sweeter than dark chocolate, which may alter the overall flavor.

→ How should I store these squares?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week for optimal freshness.

→ Can I add other nuts besides pistachios?

Absolutely! Almonds, walnuts, or any nut of your choice can be used to substitute or complement the pistachios.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no flour or gluten-containing ingredients.