I can still remember my mom sharing her aunt’s coconut squares recipe with me over 40 years ago. Little did I know that these chocolatey treats would become a staple in our household! Some folks refer to them as old-fashioned coconut bars, while others call them Hello Dolly bars. Whatever the name, rest assured they’re an absolute delight.What sets these coconut and chocolate magic bars apart is their irresistible flavor profile. You’ll be hooked from the very first bite, I promise! And if you’re looking for more mouthwatering homemade bar recipes to satisfy your sweet tooth, try whipping up some baked gingerbread bars, no-bake granola bars or strawberry oat bars.As a self-proclaimed coconut aficionado, these magic bars have earned a top spot in my list of favorite baked goods. There’s just something about the combination of rich chocolate and toasted coconut that makes them impossible to resist. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to portion into bite-sized treats – perfect for satisfying those late-night cravings or sharing with friends.Whether you’ve encountered these bars at bake sales, potlucks, or holiday gatherings or not, I assure you that they’ll quickly become a favorite among your loved ones. So go ahead, give them a try, and discover the magic for yourself!
Interesting History of Coconut Magic Bars
The coconut squares, affectionately known as coconut magic bars or 7-layer bars, have been shrouded in mystery for years. But I decided to dig deeper and uncover their origins. As it turns out, the ‘Hello Dolly’ name has nothing to do with the Broadway musical of the same name, which was popular in the 1960s – the decade these old-fashioned coconut bars first emerged. Instead, it’s believed that the name was coined by Alecia Leigh, an 11-year-old girl from Dallas who submitted the recipe to Clementine Paddleford’s food column in The Week magazine in September 1965. The same recipe appeared in the Evening News of Ada, Oklahoma just a few months prior, in July 1965. Despite my best efforts, I couldn’t find any connection between these coconut squares and the iconic musical – it seems the true story behind their name remains a mystery.
Why Everyone Loves Coconut Squares
These treats are truly special because they cater to a wide range of tastes. Whether you’re a fan of coconut, chocolate, walnuts, or graham crackers, these magic bars have something for everyone. The best part? They’re incredibly easy to make and require minimal effort.
Coconut Magic Bars – Tips for Perfection
The versatility of parchment paper sheets is showcased in their ability to be used for both cookies and bars. For bars, simply cut the sheets to fit the pan, ensuring a smooth baking experience with no sticking or burning issues. Additionally, cleaning up is a breeze when using these sheets.
When parchment paper insists on rolling up instead of lying flat, a simple solution is to splash a few drops of water onto the baking sheet first. This allows the paper to stick and lie flat, making the baking process more streamlined.
To create these decadent coconut squares, sweetened condensed milk is essential. This condiment is made by heating sugar mixed with whole milk until most of the liquid has evaporated, resulting in a thick, sweet consistency that’s perfect for baking.
It’s important to note that evaporated milk cannot be used as a substitute for sweetened condensed milk, as it lacks sweetness and would alter the flavor profile of these Hello Dolly bars.
Despite containing dairy products like milk and butter, these coconut squares don’t require refrigeration. Simply store them in an airtight container and enjoy within three days.
These indulgent coconut magic bars are perfect for any occasion, as they’re not fragile and travel well. They’re ideal for picnics, gifts, or adding to a box lunch. I find myself making them around Christmas due to their special and indulgent nature.
Chocolate Coconut Magic Bars Recipe
Chocolate Coconut Magic Bars
I’m delighted to share this treasured family recipe for chocolate coconut magic squares, which has been a staple in our household for as long as I can remember. According to my mom, she obtained it from her aunt, and over the years, we’ve affectionately referred to them as old-fashioned coconut bars or Hello Dolly bars. This classic treat is surprisingly easy to prepare, requiring just 15 minutes of prep time, followed by a 25-minute baking period. In total, you can expect to spend about 40 minutes from start to finish. And the best part? These scrumptious squares yield 10 servings, perfect for sharing with friends and family or enjoying all to yourself.
Instructions
To begin, preheat your oven to a moderate temperature of 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Next, prepare a 9-by-13 inch baking dish by lining it with parchment paper and coating the surface with non-stick cooking spray. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the butter and graham crackers, blending them until well-mixed. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to create a solid crust. I find it helpful to use a spoon to ensure the crust is evenly packed and compacted. Once the crust is in place, sprinkle the walnuts over the top, followed by the chocolate chips, coconut flakes, and finally, the milk. Distribute each ingredient evenly across the surface. Finally, bake the mixture for 25 to 30 minutes or until it reaches a lightly browned color. Allow the dish to cool completely before slicing into portions.