Chocolate Coconut Bars

Hi All,

These bars are one of the favorites that I include with the Christmas box treats. I make it with my gluten free mix instead of the AP flour. So, R is happy to eat these. But, the AP flour works perfectly as well.

Heat oven to 350. Line a 8 1/2 by 11 baking pan with an aluminum foil sling. (Take two pieces of foil, one that goes lengthwise the width of the pan and hangs over the edge, and the other piece goes width wise and hangs over the sides.) Spray with nonstick cooking spray or oil to prevent sticking.

1 cup sweetened flake coconut

Spread coconut on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes until golden, mixing around to prevent burning. Set aside.

2 sticks butter
4 ounces unsweetened chocolate squares (broken up)

Combine and microwave one minute to melt. Stir. Microwave for another minute. Stir until smooth.

1 1/2 cup sugar
1 1/2 cup A P flour
4 eggs
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Stir in the above ingredients to the melted chocolate/butter mixture, until well combined. Pour into prepared pan. Bake at 350 for 30 minutes. Check with a toothpick. While the bars bake prepare frosting.

1 stick butter, unsalted, softened
2 cups confectioners' sugar (I really like the organic Trader Joe's brand.)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

In a large bowl mix the above ingredients until smooth. Adding up to 2 tablespoons of water if too dry.

Make sure the cake is cool!!  Spread the frosting and then toasted coconut.

These bars are pretty easy to make and look very festive. If you are serving a large crowd, you could precut them into smallish pieces and place each in a cupcake cup, making serving easy.

I hope these become a favorite for you as well, at any time of the year!

Hugs,
Mameekosan  :  )