**Coconut Bounty Cookie Bars**
Coconut Bounty Cookie Bars are a sweet, chewy, and decadent treat that combines the tropical flavor of coconut with a rich, chocolatey coating. Inspired by the beloved Bounty chocolate bar, these homemade bars elevate the classic candy into a more indulgent, yet still surprisingly easy-to-make dessert. The combination of coconut and chocolate, with a hint of vanilla, creates a dessert that is both comforting and exciting, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
### **Origin and Cultural Significance**
The Bounty chocolate bar, first introduced by Mars, Inc. in 1951, quickly became a favorite for its distinctive combination of shredded coconut and milk or dark chocolate. It has a dedicated following worldwide, especially in countries like the UK and the US. The inspiration for these coconut bounty cookie bars comes directly from the Bounty bar, but the homemade version allows for more control over ingredients, texture, and customization. Coconut has long been a staple in tropical regions such as Southeast Asia, the Caribbean, and the Pacific Islands, where it plays a significant role in both savory and sweet dishes.
In many cultures, coconut is revered for its versatility and nutritional benefits. It’s used not only for its flavor but also for its oil, milk, and water. In desserts, coconut adds a unique richness and chewiness that makes it ideal for cookies, bars, and cakes.
### **Ingredients Quantity**
– 2 cups shredded unsweetened coconut
– 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 8 oz (225g) dark or milk chocolate (for coating)
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional, to smooth the chocolate)
### **Optional Additions**
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds or pecans (for added crunch)
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (for additional sweetness)
– 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (for a nutty flavor)
– A pinch of sea salt (to enhance the chocolate flavor)
– A few drops of coconut extract (for a stronger coconut flavor)
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries or cherries (for a fruity twist)
– 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (to add texture inside the bars)
### **Tips for Success**
1. **Use unsweetened coconut** – The sweetness of the condensed milk is enough to balance the coconut, so using unsweetened shredded coconut ensures the bars aren’t overly sweet.
2. **Chill the mixture** – After forming the bars, chilling them in the fridge for 30 minutes to an hour helps the bars firm up, making them easier to dip in chocolate.
3. **Perfect chocolate coating** – Melt the chocolate slowly using a double boiler or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between. Adding coconut oil will help the chocolate coat the bars more smoothly.
4. **Press the mixture firmly** – When shaping the coconut mixture into bars, press it down firmly so the bars hold together well when coated with chocolate.
5. **Customize the chocolate** – You can use milk chocolate for a sweeter result or dark chocolate for a richer, slightly bitter contrast to the coconut’s sweetness.
6. **Store properly** – These bars are best stored in an airtight container in the fridge to keep the chocolate firm and prevent the coconut from becoming too soft.
### **Instructions**
1. **Preheat the oven** to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. **Mix the coconut filling**: In a medium bowl, combine the shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, flour, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until the mixture is well combined and sticky.
3. **Form the bars**: Press the coconut mixture firmly into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Use a spoon or your hands to shape the mixture into a smooth, compact layer.
4. **Bake** for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set. Let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to the fridge for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
5. **Prepare the chocolate coating**: While the coconut base chills, melt the chocolate. You can do this by placing it in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method) or microwaving it in 20-second intervals, stirring in between. If using, add coconut oil to smooth the chocolate.
6. **Coat the bars**: Once the coconut layer has chilled and firmed up, cut it into bars. Dip each bar into the melted chocolate, coating it completely, and then place it on a parchment-lined tray.
7. **Let the chocolate set**: Allow the chocolate to harden by refrigerating the bars for another 30 minutes or until the coating is firm.
8. **Serve and enjoy**: Once the chocolate has set, your coconut bounty cookie bars are ready to be enjoyed!
### **Description**
Coconut Bounty Cookie Bars are the perfect blend of tropical coconut flavor and smooth, rich chocolate. The chewy, sweet coconut filling is dense and satisfying, while the chocolate coating adds a velvety finish. The texture is a delightful contrast, with the coconut giving a satisfying chew, and the chocolate providing a glossy, crunchy bite. These bars are irresistibly addictive, offering the perfect combination of sweetness, creaminess, and crunch.
### **Nutritional Information (Per Serving, assuming 12 servings)**
– Calories: 230
– Protein: 2g
– Carbohydrates: 26g
– Fiber: 3g
– Sugars: 20g
– Fat: 15g
– Saturated Fat: 12g
– Cholesterol: 10mg
– Sodium: 45mg
– Potassium: 130mg
– Calcium: 10% of the Daily Value
– Iron: 6% of the Daily Value
### **Conclusion**
Coconut Bounty Cookie Bars are a heavenly treat for anyone who loves the combination of coconut and chocolate. They’re easy to make, rich in flavor, and wonderfully satisfying. With their tropical essence and chocolatey indulgence, these bars have a universal appeal, perfect for a quick dessert, a gift for friends, or a personal snack to enjoy at any time of day.
### **Recommendation**
For a healthier version, you can use dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher) to reduce sugar content and increase antioxidants. You can also experiment with using a natural sweetener, like maple syrup or coconut sugar, to replace the condensed milk, though this may affect the texture slightly. For a lighter alternative, consider using unsweetened coconut flakes and reducing the amount of chocolate used for dipping.
### **Embracing Healthful Indulgence**
Coconut Bounty Cookie Bars offer an indulgent treat that can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. By using wholesome ingredients like unsweetened coconut and high-quality dark chocolate, you can enjoy a rich dessert with a healthier twist. These bars are not just a treat for your taste buds, but a reminder that with mindful choices, indulgence can be delicious and nourishing. Savor the tropical goodness, and enjoy the sweet rewards of both flavor and satisfaction.