Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Squares

Name: Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Squares
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut; 1/2 cup roasted pistachios, chopped; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/4 cup maple syrup; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Classic Cooking

I absolutely love indulging in a sweet treat, and these Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Squares have become one of my favorite go-to recipes. The rich chocolate pairs beautifully with the crunch of pistachios and the lovely tropical flavor of coconut, creating a delightful experience in every bite. Not only are they easy to make, but they also come together quickly, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings or a cozy night in. Trust me, once you try these squares, you'll be hooked!

Created by

Willow Harries

Last updated on 2026-01-14T01:57:34.710Z

When I first made these Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Squares, I was amazed by how quickly they came together. The blend of flavors is so exquisite; each ingredient complements the others perfectly. The surprise crunch from the pistachios adds a lovely textural contrast, while the chocolate gooeyness keeps it rich and decadent.

I found that refrigerating them for a few hours enhances their flavor even more, allowing the chocolate to set nicely. It’s a little tip I learned that makes all the difference in achieving that perfect texture. You won’t want to skip this step!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Decadent combination of chocolate and coconut
Nutty crunch from pistachios
Simple to prepare with minimal cleanup
Great for sharing or enjoying alone

      

Perfecting the Chocolate Melt

When melting the chocolate chips, using a microwave-safe bowl is crucial. Ensure your bowl is dry and clean to prevent any water from seizing the chocolate. I recommend using medium power, like 50-70%, to avoid overheating the chocolate. Stirring it every 30 seconds will help you achieve a glossy, smooth texture without any burnt bits. If you notice the chocolate is still chunky after a minute or so, give it a good stir; the residual heat will continue to melt it.

If you prefer a more precise method, consider using a double boiler. Fill a saucepan with a couple of inches of water, then bring it to a simmer. Place your chocolate in a heatproof bowl on top, ensuring it doesn’t touch the water. Stir constantly until melted. This method gives you more control over the temperature, reducing the risk of scorching the chocolate.

Variations and Customizations

While the chocolate, pistachios, and coconut combination is divine, feel free to experiment with different nuts or add-ins. Almonds or cashews can substitute for pistachios, offering their unique flavors and textures. For a kick of spice, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of espresso powder to the chocolate mixture to enhance its depth without overpowering the primary flavors.

For a fun twist, you might also drizzle some melted white chocolate on top before chilling. This not only adds a contrasting flavor but also enhances the presentation, making your squares visually appealing. If you're looking for a lighter version, try using a sugar-free chocolate or opting for lower-sugar sweeteners like agave syrup.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare your Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Squares:

Ingredients

1 cup dark chocolate chips
1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut
1/2 cup roasted pistachios, chopped
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious squares:

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips and melt them in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.

Combine Ingredients

In a separate mixing bowl, combine melted chocolate, shredded coconut, chopped pistachios, cocoa powder, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until well combined.

Set the Mixture

Line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper and pour the chocolate mixture into it. Spread evenly with a spatula.

Chill

Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set. Once firm, lift the parchment paper to remove the slab from the dish.

Cut and Serve

Cut into squares and enjoy your delicious Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Squares!

These squares are best enjoyed chilled and can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding a pinch of chili powder to the chocolate mixture before setting it. It adds an exciting twist!

Storage Tips

These Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Squares can last up to a week when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. However, for extended freshness, consider refrigerating them. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the squares. Just make sure to wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. This prevents freezer burn and allows for easy grabbing when you have a sweet craving!

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen squares, simply take them out and let them sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving. This will help restore their texture for the perfect bite, allowing the flavors to shine through without being overly hard.

Serving Suggestions

For an extra touch of indulgence, serve these squares with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This combination creates a beautiful contrast between the richness of the chocolate and the light, airy texture of the cream. You can also add a sprinkle of additional chopped pistachios on top for garnish, elevating both the look and the nutty flavor.

If you're looking for a festive presentation, cut the squares into smaller bite-sized pieces and arrange them on a decorative platter. You could even drizzle some melted chocolate across the top and sprinkle a bit of sea salt for a gourmet touch. These squares make for a delightful, elegant dessert that's perfect for sharing at gatherings or special occasions.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different nuts?

Absolutely! You can substitute pistachios with almonds, walnuts, or any nut of your choice.

→ How can I make this recipe vegan?

Use dairy-free chocolate chips and maple syrup to keep it vegan.

→ Can I store these squares?

Yes, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ What can I serve with these squares?

They pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream!