Chocolate Cherry Coconut Bars

Name: Chocolate Cherry Coconut Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 16 bars
Ingredients: 1 cup pitted cherries, chopped; 1 cup shredded coconut; 1 cup chocolate chips; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 cup almond flour; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I can't resist the combination of chocolate, cherries, and coconut, and that's why I had to create these Chocolate Cherry Coconut Bars. Each bite is an explosion of flavors and textures that dance together beautifully. Whether I'm sharing these with friends at a gathering or indulging on a quiet evening, they never fail to delight. It's a simple recipe that brings a bit of joy to the everyday. Trust me, once you've had a taste, you'll find it hard to eat just one!

Created by

Noemi Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:58:20.652Z

When I first attempted these bars, I was skeptical about the combination of such rich flavors. However, the blend of sweet cherries, creamy coconut, and intense chocolate ended up being a delightful surprise. I used a mix of dark and milk chocolate to balance the sweetness, and it worked perfectly. The result was a chewy, decadent treat that reminded me of sunny days and tropical holidays.

One particular tip I found invaluable was to let the bars cool completely before slicing. This not only helps them set firmly but also keeps the chocolate from smudging as you cut. Patience pays off when it comes to getting those perfect, clean cuts for presentation!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with tart cherries
Chewy coconut that adds a delightful texture
Easy to make and perfect for sharing with loved ones

      

Ingredient Insights

The choice of pitted cherries plays a pivotal role in this recipe, as their natural tartness beautifully balances the rich chocolate. Fresh cherries are ideal, but if they're out of season, frozen cherries can work as a substitute. Be sure to thaw and drain them properly before use to avoid excess moisture in the bars. This will help maintain the desired chewy texture without compromising the overall integrity of the dessert.

Using almond flour instead of regular flour provides a gluten-free option that keeps these bars soft and moist. Almond flour adds a subtle nuttiness that enhances the other flavors, while also contributing healthy fats and protein. If you prefer a nut-free version, sunflower seed flour can be a great alternative, though it may slightly alter the flavor profile.

Techniques for Perfection

Mixing the ingredients thoroughly is key to ensuring an even distribution of flavors and textures. I recommend using a sturdy spatula to fold the mixture rather than a whisk, as this helps incorporate the cherries and chocolate chips without breaking them down too much. You want to ensure everything is well combined to avoid pockets of cocoa powder or dry spots in the final bake.

When pressing the mixture into the baking pan, take care to spread it evenly and firmly. If you find that the mixture is sticking to your hands or spatula, lightly greasing them with coconut oil can help. This step is crucial; otherwise, the bars may not hold their shape when baked. Look for a slight glossy appearance across the top before they go into the oven.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once baked and cooled, these Chocolate Cherry Coconut Bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for about three days, or in the fridge for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them! Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag, ensuring they stay fresh for up to three months. Simply thaw them at room temperature for a few hours before enjoying.

These bars make an excellent snack on their own, but you can also elevate them by drizzling with melted dark chocolate or topping with a sprinkle of sea salt. For a fancy presentation, serve them alongside a scoop of coconut or vanilla ice cream, allowing guests to create their ideal flavor combination. You can even pair them with a warm cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.

Ingredients

For the Bars

1 cup pitted cherries, chopped
1 cup shredded coconut
1 cup chocolate chips
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup almond flour
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

How to Make Chocolate Cherry Coconut Bars

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the chopped cherries, shredded coconut, chocolate chips, cocoa powder, almond flour, honey, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and salt until well mixed.

Bake

Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan and press down firmly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until set.

Cool and Slice

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before lifting out using the parchment paper. Slice into squares and enjoy!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize these bars by adding nuts or different dried fruits!

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with different nuts or seeds to add an extra layer of texture and flavor. Chopped walnuts, pecans, or even pumpkin seeds can lend a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the chewy coconut and tart cherries. Just remember to chop them roughly to maintain some bite in each bar.

For a tropical twist, consider adding a splash of almond extract or even a hint of lime zest to the mixture. This can enhance the coconut's flavor and create an intriguing blend that transports you to a sunny destination with each bite. Just be cautious with the amount of extract, as it can easily overwhelm the other ingredients.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your bars come out too crumbly, it may be due to insufficient binding from the wet ingredients. Make sure your honey or maple syrup is well incorporated, and if necessary, consider increasing the amount slightly. If you're using a different type of flour, it may absorb more moisture, so adjust accordingly.

On the flip side, if the bars seem too gooey or aren't setting properly after baking, try increasing the baking time in five-minute increments. Oven temperatures can vary, and sometimes the bars need a bit of extra heat to firm up. Look for a firm but slightly soft texture that holds its shape when pressed lightly.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable! If you're preparing for a larger gathering, simply double the ingredients and use a 9x13 inch pan instead. Keep in mind that you may need to adjust the baking time slightly; start checking for doneness a few minutes earlier, as a larger batch can sometimes bake faster than expected.

Conversely, if you’d like to make a smaller batch, it’s just as simple. Halve the ingredients and use a smaller pan, like a 6-inch square. Be mindful of the baking time, as it may reduce, so keep an eye on the bars to ensure they don’t overbake.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried?

Yes, just make sure to chop them finely and remove the pits.

→ How should I store these bars?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I substitute the almond flour with another type?

Yes, you can use oat flour or all-purpose flour if you prefer.

→ What can I use instead of honey?

Maple syrup or agave nectar works well as a substitute.