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 shelled pistachios, roughly chopped; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/4 cup maple syrup; 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of sea salt

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Inspiration

I love creating desserts that not only delight the taste buds but also provide a beautiful presentation. These Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Squares are a perfect example. With layers of rich chocolate, crunchy pistachios, and sweet coconut, they create a symphony of flavors and textures. Each bite feels indulgent yet satisfying. When I serve these at gatherings, everyone raves about them, and they disappear within minutes. I can’t wait for you to try making these delightful squares for yourself!

Created by

Victoria Hall

Last updated on 2026-01-14T08:13:36.023Z

When I first made Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Squares, I was skeptical about combining these flavors. The contrast between the creamy chocolate and the nutty pistachios intrigued me. After several experiments, I found that lightly toasting the pistachios really enhances their flavor, making each bite even more delightful.

Another key to success with this recipe is letting the squares chill before cutting them. This not only helps with presentation but allows the flavors to meld perfectly. Trust me, the wait is definitely worth it when you taste the final result!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor balanced with the nuttiness of pistachios
Unique combination of textures with creamy chocolate and crunchy coconut
An elegant dessert that's easy to make for any occasion

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Each component of these Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Squares plays a pivotal role in achieving the desired flavor and texture. Dark chocolate provides a rich, indulgent base that balances wonderfully with the sweetness of shredded coconut. When selecting chocolate chips, opt for a high-quality brand with at least 70% cocoa content; this ensures a deep chocolate flavor that stands up to the other ingredients.

Pistachios not only add a delightful crunch but also infuse the squares with their unique nutty flavor. When chopping pistachios, aim for rough pieces rather than finely chopped ones to maintain that satisfying textural contrast. If you have nut allergies, sunflower seeds can be substituted while still adding crunch and health benefits without sacrificing flavor.

Perfecting the Technique

Melting the chocolate requires careful attention to prevent scorching. If using a microwave, heat in short bursts (15-30 seconds), stirring in between until glossy and smooth. A double boiler is another excellent option; simply ensure the water does not touch the bottom of your bowl to maintain a gentle heat. This technique helps ensure a silky chocolate mixture without any burnt flavor.

When combining the dry ingredients with the melted chocolate, mix thoroughly to achieve a uniform batter. This step is crucial for ensuring even flavor distribution throughout the squares. Use a spatula to scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl, making sure no dry cocoa powder remains. This will guarantee that every bite is as decadent and flavorful as intended.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Squares!

For the Squares

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

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you can easily assemble this great dessert!

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to prepare these delightful squares!

Prepare the pan

Line an 8x8 inch square baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

Melt the chocolate

In a double boiler or microwave, melt the dark chocolate chips with coconut oil, stirring until smooth.

Mix ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine cocoa powder, maple syrup, vanilla, and sea salt until well mixed. Add the melted chocolate mixture and stir until fully blended.

Add pistachios and coconut

Fold in the shredded coconut and chopped pistachios until evenly distributed in the chocolate mixture.

Set in the pan

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Smooth the top with a spatula.

Chill

Refrigerate for about 2 hours, or until firm. Use the parchment to lift the squares out of the pan.

Cut into squares

Once firm, cut into 16 squares and serve chilled.

Enjoy these delicious squares as a sweet treat or dessert!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of orange zest to the chocolate mixture.

Tips for Storage and Serving

These Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Squares can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If you'd like to prepare them in advance, consider making a double batch; they freeze beautifully! Just cut the squares and wrap them individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container to keep them fresh and easy to grab when the craving hits.

To serve, I suggest letting the squares sit at room temperature for a few minutes after taking them out of the refrigerator. This allows the chocolate to soften slightly, enhancing the overall texture experience. You can also garnish the squares with additional chopped pistachios or coconut flakes for an elegant touch that boosts visual appeal.

Common Pitfalls and Solutions

One common challenge when making these squares is ensuring the chocolate sets properly. If the mixture doesn’t firm up after refrigeration, it could be due to using too much coconut oil or not enough chocolate. Be sure to follow measurements carefully and avoid over-melting the chocolate. If you find this happens, simply place the mixture back into the bowl, add a little more cocoa powder, and mix well before refreezing.

If you prefer to make the dessert less sweet, you can reduce the amount of maple syrup by half without compromising the texture significantly. However, keep in mind that the overall taste may shift slightly, requiring adjustments in flavor balance, perhaps by adding a touch more cocoa powder for richness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can substitute with milk chocolate, but keep in mind it will make the squares sweeter.

→ How do I store the leftover squares?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I make these squares vegan?

These squares are already vegan-friendly as long as you use dairy-free chocolate.

→ What can I substitute for maple syrup?

You can use agave syrup or honey if you are not strictly vegan.