Almond Joy Cookie Bars – Easy Chocolate, Coconut & Almond Dessert Bars

If you love the classic Almond Joy candy bar, these Almond Joy Cookie Bars are your ultimate homemade version. Layers of rich chocolate chips, sweet shredded coconut, and crunchy almonds sit atop a buttery cookie base to create a dessert that’s both gooey and golden. Perfect for bake sales, potlucks, or simply treating yourself, these cookie bars are quick to make yet deliver a decadent, layered flavor that’s impossible to resist. Each bite offers a delightful mix of textures: soft cookie base, nutty almonds, melty chocolate chips, and coconut that adds chew and sweetness. With simple ingredients, easy steps, and crowd-pleasing results, these bars are a go-to recipe for anyone looking for a fun, indulgent dessert that satisfies chocolate and coconut cravings in one perfect bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Chocolate-Coconut Heaven: Inspired by Almond Joy candy bars, these cookie bars are indulgent yet easy to make.
• Easy & Quick: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make them accessible for all skill levels.
• Layered Texture: Gooey cookie base, crunchy almonds, and chewy coconut create a multi-textured treat.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Freeze individual bars for up to 2 months, perfect for later enjoyment.
• Family & Party Friendly: Ideal for bake sales, potlucks, or dessert for a crowd.
• Customizable: Toast almonds for extra flavor, or add a drizzle of chocolate on top for a decadent finish.

Ingredients Breakdown

Yield: 20 bars

Wet Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – creates a rich, tender cookie base.
• 1 cup granulated sugar – adds sweetness and structure to the dough.
• 1 cup packed brown sugar – provides moisture and a subtle caramel flavor.
• 2 large eggs – bind ingredients and add richness.
• 2 tsp vanilla extract – enhances the flavor with aromatic sweetness.

Dry Ingredients:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour – provides structure for the cookie base.
• 1 tsp baking soda – ensures even rising and a tender crumb.
• ½ tsp salt – balances sweetness and enhances flavor.

Mix-Ins & Toppings:

• 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips – rich chocolate throughout.
• 1 cup sliced almonds – crunchy, nutty flavor.
• 1 ½ cups sweetened shredded coconut – adds chew and sweetness; pressed into the top for texture.

Ingredient Notes:

• Butter: Softened to room temperature for easy creaming.
• Almonds: Toasting enhances the nutty flavor; optional but recommended.
• Coconut: Sweetened shredded coconut adds chew and balances chocolate richness.
• Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet is classic, but milk or dark chocolate can be substituted.

Tools & Equipment Needed

• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Parchment paper or cooking spray
• Large mixing bowl
• Medium mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Hand or stand mixer for creaming butter and sugar
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooling rack

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

2. Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup unsalted butter, 1 cup granulated sugar, and 1 cup packed brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step ensures a tender, buttery cookie base.

3. Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add 2 large eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in 2 teaspoons vanilla extract for aromatic sweetness.

4. Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon salt. This ensures the leavening and salt are evenly distributed.

5. Mix Dry Into Wet

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender texture.

6. Add Chocolate Chips and Almonds

Fold in 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips and 1 cup sliced almonds evenly throughout the dough.

7. Spread Dough in Pan

Spread the cookie dough evenly in the prepared 9×13-inch pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.

8. Add Coconut Topping

Sprinkle 1 ½ cups sweetened shredded coconut evenly over the top and gently press it into the dough so it adheres during baking.

9. Bake

Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is just set. The bars should be slightly soft but fully cooked through.

10. Cool and Slice

Let the cookie bars cool completely in the pan on a cooling rack. Once cooled, lift out using the parchment paper and slice into 20 even bars.

Tips & Variations

• Cool Completely: Ensures clean, sharp edges when slicing.
• Toasted Almonds: Enhance the flavor by lightly toasting before adding.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Melt chocolate and drizzle over cooled bars for an extra indulgent touch.
• Make-Ahead: Freeze individual bars in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
• Alternative Nuts: Swap almonds for pecans or walnuts for a different crunch.
• Coconut-Free Option: Omit shredded coconut for a more classic chocolate-almond cookie bar.

Flavor Profile

Almond Joy Cookie Bars are rich, sweet, and nutty with a perfect balance of textures. The buttery cookie base is soft yet firm, the semi-sweet chocolate chips add melty chocolate pockets, and sliced almonds provide crunch. Sweetened shredded coconut on top adds chewiness and a tropical note reminiscent of the classic candy bar. The bars are golden around the edges with a slightly gooey interior, offering a multi-layered bite that’s indulgent but perfectly balanced.

Nutritional Overview (Per Bar)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	260
Sugar	18g
Sodium	90mg
Fat	15g
Saturated Fat	9g
Unsaturated Fat	5g
Trans Fat	0g
Carbohydrates	28g
Fiber	2g
Protein	3g
Cholesterol	30mg

Dietary Notes: Contains dairy and nuts; vegetarian-friendly.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Prep Dough in Advance: Refrigerate dough before baking to make slicing easier.
• Cooling: Allow bars to cool completely before slicing for the best texture.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3–4 days, or freeze individually for up to 2 months.
• Serving: Serve as a dessert, snack, or treat for bake sales and parties.

FAQs

1. Can I use unsweetened coconut?
Yes, but bars will be less sweet and slightly less chewy.

2. Can I use dark chocolate chips?
Absolutely; adjust sweetness to taste.

3. Can I make these gluten-free?
Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour.

4. Can I halve the recipe?
Yes, bake in an 8×8-inch pan and reduce baking time slightly.

5. How do I get perfectly even bars?
Use a sharp knife and slice after the bars are completely cooled.

Cooking Timeline

Task	Time
Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	30 minutes
Cooling Time	15 minutes
Total Time	45 minutes
Servings	20 bars

Serving Suggestions

• Serve at room temperature or slightly chilled.
• Perfect for potlucks, bake sales, or casual family dessert.
• Stack bars on a platter for a visually appealing presentation.
• Pair with coffee, milk, or tea for a sweet snack.

Recipe Variations

1. Double Chocolate Almond Joy Bars: Add cocoa powder to the dough for extra chocolate flavor.
2. Salted Almond Joy Bars: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of the coconut before baking.
3. Tropical Twist: Add chopped dried pineapple along with the coconut.
4. Mini Bars: Bake in a smaller pan and cut into bite-sized squares for parties.

Ingredient Spotlight

Almonds: Provide crunch, nuttiness, and a classic flavor reminiscent of Almond Joy candy bars. Toasting enhances aroma and depth.

Coconut: Sweetened shredded coconut adds chewy texture and tropical flavor, balancing chocolate and nuts.

Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet chips melt slightly during baking, giving rich chocolate pockets throughout the bar.

Pro Baking Tips

• Creaming Butter and Sugars: Beat until light and fluffy to create tender bars.
• Even Spreading: Use a spatula to distribute dough evenly for uniform baking.
• Coconut Placement: Press lightly to avoid burning while baking.
• Cooling: Fully cool before slicing for clean edges.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Refrigeration: Store in airtight container for 3–4 days.
• Freezing: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap or foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Serving: Serve at room temperature or slightly chilled.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Bar)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	260
Sugar	18g
Fat	15g
Saturated Fat	9g
Protein	3g
Carbohydrates	28g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	90mg
Cholesterol	30mg

Dietary Notes: Vegetarian, contains dairy and nuts.

Expanded Conclusion

Almond Joy Cookie Bars capture the indulgent flavors of the classic candy bar in a homemade, easy-to-bake dessert. With layers of buttery cookie base, rich chocolate chips, chewy coconut, and crunchy almonds, these bars are a crowd-pleaser for bake sales, family gatherings, or a simple treat at home. Easy to prepare, make-ahead friendly, and irresistibly delicious, these bars are a must-try for anyone craving a chocolate-coconut-nut combination. Slice, serve, and enjoy this gooey, golden, decadent treat that will keep everyone coming back for more.

Print