Chocolate coconut slice is a nostalgic favourite in many households, especially across Australia and New Zealand. With its chewy coconut base and rich chocolate topping, this sweet treat is perfect for lunchboxes, afternoon tea, or casual get-togethers. It’s quick to prepare, easy to customise, and doesn’t require any complicated baking techniques. Whether you’re a seasoned home baker or just starting out, this chocolate coconut slice recipe is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Slice
This slice is a fantastic blend of texture and flavour. The base is dense, sweet, and chewy, made with crushed biscuits, coconut, cocoa powder, and condensed milk. The top is a smooth layer of chocolate that sets to a firm finish. Together, they create a satisfying treat that’s simple but irresistibly delicious.
It’s also highly versatile. You can adapt it with different add-ins or toppings, and it can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer. If you need a crowd-pleasing sweet that’s low-effort and high-reward, this slice fits the bill perfectly.
Ingredients for Chocolate Coconut Slice
Base:
- 250g plain sweet biscuits (like Marie or Digestive)
- 1 cup desiccated coconut
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1 tin (395g) sweetened condensed milk
- 125g unsalted butter, melted
Topping:
- 200g dark or milk chocolate (depending on your preference)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or butter (optional – helps keep the topping glossy and smooth)
Method: Step-by-Step
1. Prepare the tin
Grease and line a square or rectangular baking tin (20×20 cm or similar) with baking paper. Allow some paper to hang over the edges to help lift the slice out once it’s set.
2. Crush the biscuits
Place the biscuits in a food processor and blitz until they form fine crumbs. Alternatively, put them in a zip-lock bag and crush them with a rolling pin. You want a sandy texture with a few small chunks for a bit of crunch.
3. Combine the dry ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed biscuits, coconut, and cocoa powder. Mix thoroughly so the cocoa distributes evenly.
4. Add wet ingredients
Pour in the melted butter and condensed milk. Mix until everything is well combined and sticky. The mixture should hold together when pressed – if it’s too dry, you can add a splash of extra condensed milk.
5. Press into the tin
Spoon the mixture into the prepared baking tin. Press it down firmly and evenly using the back of a spoon or the base of a glass. Make sure the surface is flat and compact so the slice holds its shape once set.
6. Make the chocolate topping
Break the chocolate into pieces and melt it gently in a heatproof bowl over a pan of simmering water (double boiler method), or in short bursts in the microwave. Stir until smooth. Add a little oil or butter if you’d like a softer topping.
7. Spread and set
Pour the melted chocolate over the base and spread it evenly with a spatula or the back of a spoon. Chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours or until fully set.
8. Slice and serve
Once the slice is firm, lift it out using the baking paper. Cut into squares or bars using a sharp knife dipped in hot water (this helps prevent the chocolate from cracking).
Tips for Success
- Use good-quality chocolate for the topping this makes a noticeable difference in flavour.
- If you’re in a warm climate, keep the slice refrigerated so the chocolate doesn’t soften too much.
- For neat edges, wait until the chocolate is just set not rock hard before slicing.
- Store the slice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for up to 2 months.
Variations to Try
- Nutty version: Add chopped almonds, walnuts, or hazelnuts to the base for crunch.
- Fruit twist: Mix in dried cranberries, sultanas, or chopped glace cherries for added flavour and colour.
- Mint or orange: Add a few drops of peppermint or orange essence to the chocolate topping for a flavoured version.
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free biscuits as a base to make the recipe suitable for those with gluten intolerance.
Conclusion
Chocolate coconut slice is a timeless treat that’s easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and loved by all ages. With its chewy base and smooth chocolate top, it strikes a perfect balance between sweet and satisfying. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply want to fill the tin with something homemade, this recipe delivers classic comfort in every bite. Try it once, and it’ll likely become a family favourite for years to come.