Autumn Coconut Bounty Bars
Rich, chocolate-covered coconut bars with a cozy fall twist. This no-bake recipe is simple, fun, and perfect for autumn treats. Optional spices like cinnamon or pumpkin spice bring warm, seasonal flavors.
Ingredients (makes ~8 bars or 16 balls)
Coconut Filling:
- 1 ½ cups unsweetened shredded coconut
- 3 tablespoons full-fat coconut milk
- 3 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
- 2 tablespoons agave syrup (or maple syrup for a fall touch)
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon pumpkin spice (optional)
Chocolate Coating:
- 1 ¼ cups chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark chocolate)
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil (optional, for smoother melting)
Optional Toppings:
- Sprinkle of chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts)
- Extra shredded coconut
- Drizzle of caramel
Instructions
1. Prepare the Coconut Filling
- Add shredded coconut, coconut milk, melted coconut oil, agave, and optional spices to a food processor.
- Pulse several times until blended but still slightly textured. The mixture should hold together when pinched, but remain a little crumbly.
2. Shape the Bars or Balls
- For bars, scoop 2 tablespoons of the coconut mixture and form rectangular shapes. Place them on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. (~8 bars)
- For balls, scoop 1 tablespoon and roll into balls. (~16 balls)
- Chill the tray in the freezer for 10 minutes to firm up.
3. Melt the Chocolate
- Use a double boiler: place a heatproof bowl over a pot with 1–2 inches of simmering water, making sure the bowl doesn’t touch the water. Add chocolate chips (and optional coconut oil) and stir until smooth.
- Alternative: Melt chocolate carefully in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between.
4. Coat the Bars or Balls
- Drop each chilled coconut bar or ball into the melted chocolate.
- Use a fork and spoon to fully coat it, shaking off excess chocolate.
- Place back on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Chill and Set
- Refrigerate or freeze until chocolate is firm (about 20–30 minutes in the fridge).
- Optional: drizzle with caramel, sprinkle nuts, or dust with extra cinnamon for a fall twist.
6. Serve and Store
- Enjoy slightly chilled or leave at room temperature for ~30 minutes for a softer bite.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Tips & Variations:
- Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the coconut mixture for extra depth of flavor.
- Substitute chocolate with white chocolate for a “snowy” autumn look.
- Roll balls in crushed graham crackers or toasted coconut for a festive texture.