Coconut Chewies with Brown Sugar

This coconut chewies recipe delivers the perfect balance of crispy edges and a moist, buttery center with delightful coconut in every bite. The brown butter base creates a toffee-like flavor that elevates these bars beyond ordinary blondies.

I first made these coconut chewies for a neighborhood potluck when I was scrambling for a quick dessert. They disappeared faster than anything else on the table and now they're my signature treat whenever I need to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• Butter: Provides the rich foundation and browning it adds a nutty caramel flavor that makes these bars irresistible
• Brown sugar: Creates that perfect chewy texture and deep molasses notes
• Eggs: Bind everything together while adding moisture
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile
• All-purpose flour: Gives structure to the bars
• Baking powder: Provides just enough lift without making them cakey
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all other flavors
• Sweetened shredded coconut: Offers texture and tropical flavor in every bite

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Butter:

Heat butter in a large saucepan over medium-high heat until it begins to boil. Swirl the pan continuously to prevent burning. Watch carefully as the butter foams then settles, finally turning a beautiful amber color with a nutty aroma. This process takes about 5-7 minutes and builds the foundation of flavor for your bars.

Create the Base:

Add brown sugar to the warm browned butter, stirring until completely integrated. The heat will help dissolve the sugar, creating a smoother texture. Let it cool slightly before adding eggs and vanilla, stirring until the mixture looks glossy and well combined.

Add Dry Ingredients:

Add flour, baking powder, and salt to your wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix which could make your bars tough. The batter will be thick and somewhat sticky at this stage.

Incorporate Coconut:

Fold the shredded coconut into the batter using a spatula, making sure it's evenly distributed throughout. This ensures every bite has that delightful coconut texture. Transfer to your greased baking dish, spreading evenly into corners.

Bake to Perfection:

Bake in your preheated 350°F oven for 40-45 minutes. Cover with foil during the last 10 minutes to prevent the top from over-browning. The bars are done when the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. Allow to cool completely before cutting for clean slices.

My favorite part of making these chewies is browning the butter. That moment when it transforms from pale yellow to golden amber fills my kitchen with a nutty aroma that always brings my family running to see what's baking. My daughter now recognizes the smell instantly and knows coconut chewies are on the menu.

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Storage Solutions

These coconut chewies keep beautifully at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 5 days. The flavor actually improves after the first day as the coconut and brown butter notes meld together. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to three months. I like to cut them first then wrap individually in plastic wrap before freezing so I can thaw just what I need.

Easy Variations

The basic recipe provides an excellent canvas for customization. Try adding a cup of chocolate chips for a more indulgent treat or mix in chopped macadamia nuts for tropical flair. White chocolate and dried cranberries create a festive holiday version that always impresses. My personal favorite variation includes a teaspoon of cinnamon and a pinch of cardamom for a chai-inspired flavor profile that complements the coconut beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

These bars shine on their own but can be elevated for special occasions. Try warming slightly and topping with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a simple yet impressive dessert. For brunch gatherings, I serve them alongside fresh fruit and coffee. They pair wonderfully with chai or coconut milk lattes. During the holidays, add a small sprinkle of flaky sea salt just before serving to enhance the caramel notes.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I toast the butter for this dessert?

Heat the butter in a large saucepan over medium-high heat until it begins to boil. Swirl the pan continuously to prevent burning, then remove from the heat when the butter achieves an amber color.

→ Can I substitute unsweetened coconut for the sweetened variety?

Yes, you can use unsweetened coconut, but the bars will be less sweet. You may want to adjust the sugar to suit your taste.

→ How do I prevent the top from overbaking?

Cover the baking dish with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking. This will ensure the bars remain moist and don’t overcook on the top.

→ How should I store leftover bars?

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for extended freshness.

→ Can I add additional mix-ins to the batter?

Absolutely! Try adding chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit to customize the flavor and texture to your liking.