If you are on the lookout for a delectable treat that perfectly balances rich chocolate with a tropical twist, you simply must try this Coconut Brownies Recipe. These brownies are a delightful fusion of fudgy cocoa goodness layered with a luscious, sweet coconut filling that keeps every bite interesting and indulgent. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just for yourself, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorite go-to desserts that feels both comforting and exciting all at once.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, high-quality ingredients is the secret to making these Coconut Brownies shine. Each component plays an essential role in achieving that perfect texture and flavor combination — from the rich cocoa powder that adds deep chocolate notes to the sweetened coconut flakes that bring a chewy tropical surprise.
- All-purpose flour (1 cup plus 1 teaspoon): The foundation of the brownies that provides structure while keeping them soft and tender.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (½ cup): Adds intense chocolate flavor without extra sweetness, balancing the coconut perfectly.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon plus ¼ teaspoon): Enhances the chocolate and coconut flavors, rounding out the sweetness.
- Granulated sugar (1 ½ cups): Sweetens the brownies, creating a perfect contrast to the cocoa’s slight bitterness.
- Butter (¾ cup, melted and cooled): Adds richness and keeps the brownies moist and tender.
- Eggs (2): Bind the ingredients together and help provide that classic fudgy texture.
- Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Brings warmth and depth to the chocolate and coconut layers alike.
- Mini semi-sweet chocolate chips (½ cup): Sprinkle in bursts of melty chocolate throughout the batter.
- Sweetened coconut flakes (2 ½ cups): The star of the coconut filling, offering a chewy, tropical punch in every bite.
- Sweetened condensed milk (â…” cup): Adds creamy sweetness to the coconut layer, keeping it rich and luscious.
How to Make Coconut Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining an 8×8 baking dish with parchment paper. Spraying it lightly with nonstick cooking spray ensures your brownies will release easily after baking. This simple prep sets you up for a smooth baking experience.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup of the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. This blend builds the chocolatey base for your brownies. Mixing these dry ingredients separately helps ensure an even distribution of flavor and prevents any clumps in your batter.
Step 3: Coat the Chocolate Chips
Place the mini chocolate chips and the reserved 1 teaspoon of flour in a small bowl, tossing them together to coat. This little trick prevents the chips from sinking to the bottom of the pan, making sure you get chocolatey pockets in every bite.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients and Form Batter
In another bowl, whisk the granulated sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and glossy. Pour this wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently just until everything is combined. Then fold in the flour-coated chocolate chips for moments of pure melty joy throughout the brownies.
Step 5: Layer the Brownie Batter
Spread half of the brownie batter evenly into your prepared pan. This first layer creates the perfect base for the luscious coconut filling, ensuring your brownies will hold their beautiful layers once baked.
Step 6: Make the Coconut Filling
In a small bowl, stir together sweetened coconut flakes, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined. This creamy, sweet filling adds a delightful chewy texture and tropical flavor that pairs beautifully with the rich chocolate layers.
Step 7: Add the Coconut Filling and Top with Remaining Batter
Scoop the coconut mixture evenly over the first layer of brownie batter, spreading it out gently. Next, carefully spread the remaining half of the brownie batter over the coconut filling. Your layers are now ready to bake into a stunning, delicious dessert!
Step 8: Bake and Cool
Bake the layered brownies for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cooling completely before slicing allows the layers to set perfectly, giving you clean, beautiful squares to share (or keep all to yourself).
How to Serve Coconut Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your Coconut Brownies Recipe by sprinkling a few toasted coconut flakes on top just before serving for extra crunch and visual appeal. A light dusting of powdered sugar also adds a pretty, snowy touch that complements the rich chocolate and creamy coconut.
Side Dishes
These brownies pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to contrast their fudgy texture and bring a cool creaminess. For a refreshing balance, serve with fresh berries or a simple cup of hot coffee or tea, which enhances the chocolate and coconut flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the brownies into bite-sized squares and serving on a wooden board surrounded by coconut shavings and chocolate chips for a rustic, inviting dessert spread. You can also stack them with layers of whipped cream and berries for a decadent brownie trifle that’s sure to impress guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Coconut Brownies Recipe fresh by storing leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps the brownies moist while maintaining their rich flavor and chewy coconut layer.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these brownies later, they freeze beautifully. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They will keep well for up to 2 months without losing any of their deliciousness.
Reheating
For a freshly baked taste, thaw frozen brownies at room temperature and warm slightly in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. This softens the chocolate chips and coconut filling, making every bite taste like it just came out of the oven.
FAQs
Can I use shredded coconut instead of coconut flakes?
Yes, shredded coconut works just fine in this recipe. Just keep in mind that shredded coconut tends to be finer, so it may create a slightly different texture in the filling but will still be delicious.
Is it possible to make these brownies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. This swap will keep the brownies fudgy and flavorful without compromising texture.
Can I use sweetened coconut milk instead of sweetened condensed milk?
Sweetened condensed milk is key for that thick, creamy coconut filling, so using coconut milk alone won’t give the same texture or sweetness. However, you could experiment by combining coconut milk with sugar and reducing it down, though results may vary.
How do I know when the brownies are done?
The best way to check is by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. Avoid overbaking to keep the brownies fudgy rather than dry.
Can I add nuts to this Coconut Brownies Recipe?
Definitely! Chopped pecans or walnuts make a fantastic addition, adding a satisfying crunch that complements both the chocolate and coconut flavors beautifully.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about this Coconut Brownies Recipe that makes it a standout whether for a casual tea, a festive gathering, or just a sweet pick-me-up. The rich chocolate paired with the luscious, chewy coconut makes every bite a celebration. I can’t wait for you to try making this at home and discover just how irresistible these brownies can be. Happy baking!
Print
Coconut Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 9 brownies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These rich and fudgy Coconut Brownies combine the deep chocolate flavor of classic brownies with a sweet and creamy coconut filling. Layered between luscious cocoa batter and a coconut condensed milk blend, this dessert is baked to perfection for a moist, indulgent treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Brownies
- 1 cup plus 1 teaspoon all-purpose flour (divided)
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup butter (melted and cooled)
- 2 eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips
Coconut Filling
- 2 ½ cups sweetened coconut flakes
- â…” cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, then spray it with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Brownie Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and ¼ teaspoon salt until well combined. Set aside.
- Coat Chocolate Chips: In a small bowl, toss the mini semi-sweet chocolate chips with the remaining 1 teaspoon of flour to prevent them from sinking during baking. Set aside.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, melted and cooled butter, eggs, and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract until smooth and combined.
- Make Brownie Batter: Pour the wet ingredient mixture into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Gently fold in the floured chocolate chips.
- Layer First Batter: Spread half of the brownie batter evenly into the prepared baking dish, creating a base layer.
- Prepare Coconut Filling: In a small bowl, mix together sweetened coconut flakes, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and ¼ teaspoon salt until thoroughly combined.
- Add Coconut Layer: Scoop the coconut filling over the brownie batter in the pan and spread it out evenly for a consistent layer.
- Top with Remaining Batter: Gently spread the remaining half of the brownie batter over the coconut filling layer without mixing them.
- Bake: Bake the layered brownies in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, lift the brownies out using the parchment paper, slice into 9 squares, and serve.
Notes
- Ensure the melted butter is cooled before mixing with eggs to avoid cooking the eggs prematurely.
- Tossing chocolate chips in flour helps them stay suspended in the batter and prevents sinking.
- Allow brownies to cool completely for the best texture and easier slicing.
- You can use sweetened or unsweetened coconut flakes. Sweetened gives a richer filling, whereas unsweetened is less sweet.
- Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
