Australian Chocolate Slice Recipe
Introduction
Australian Chocolate Slice is a nostalgic treat combining a rich, cocoa-infused base with a smooth chocolate icing. This easy-to-make dessert delivers a perfect balance of sweet and chocolatey flavors that will satisfy any chocolate lover’s cravings.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened desiccated coconut
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 1/2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 large egg
- 2/3 cup butter, melted and cooled
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/3 cup powdered sugar
- 2 1/2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder (for icing)
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted (for icing)
- 1 1/2 tablespoon boiling water
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper and lightly grease the paper to prevent sticking.
- Step 2: In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, desiccated coconut, brown sugar, and cocoa powder until well combined.
- Step 3: Add the egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir gently until the mixture just comes together.
- Step 4: Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, making sure to smooth the surface.
- Step 5: Bake for 20 to 23 minutes, or until the slice is set and cooked through the center.
- Step 6: While the slice is about 5 minutes from finishing, prepare the icing. Sift the powdered sugar and cocoa powder into a bowl. Add the melted butter and boiling water, stirring until smooth and glossy.
- Step 7: Remove the slice from the oven and quickly pour the icing over the hot slice. Spread evenly to cover the entire surface.
- Step 8: Let the slice cool completely at room temperature so the icing sets before cutting into squares and serving.
Tips & Variations
- For extra texture, add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the base mixture before baking.
- Use shredded sweetened coconut instead of unsweetened for a sweeter slice.
- Replace boiling water in the icing with strong coffee to enhance the chocolate flavor.
- Store the slice chilled for a firmer texture or at room temperature for a softer finish.
Storage
Store the Australian Chocolate Slice in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. If refrigerated, allow the slice to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture. You can also freeze the bars wrapped tightly for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, margarine can be used as a substitute, but using real butter provides a richer flavor and better texture.
Why is my icing grainy?
Make sure to sift the powdered sugar and cocoa powder to remove lumps and mix the icing ingredients thoroughly while the butter is still warm for a smooth finish.
Print
Australian Chocolate Slice Recipe
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: 16 squares 1x
Description
Australian Chocolate Slice is a rich and fudgy baked treat featuring a chocolate and coconut base topped with a smooth chocolate icing. This classic Australian dessert combines the texture of desiccated coconut with the deep flavor of cocoa, making it a satisfying snack or dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Bars
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened desiccated coconut
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 1/2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 large egg
- 2/3 cup butter, melted and cooled
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Icing
- 1 1/3 cup powdered sugar
- 2 1/2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 1/2 tablespoon boiling water
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare baking dish: Preheat your oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). Line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper and lightly grease the paper to prevent sticking.
- Make the crust mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, desiccated coconut, brown sugar, and unsweetened cocoa powder. Add the large egg, melted and cooled butter, and vanilla extract. Mix everything until just combined, ensuring not to overwork.
- Shape and bake crust: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and press it evenly into the base. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 23 minutes, or until the crust is set and baked through the middle.
- Prepare the icing: About 5 minutes before the bars are done baking, sift the powdered sugar and cocoa powder into a medium bowl. Add the melted butter and boiling water and stir until the icing is smooth and well combined.
- Ice the bars: Once the bars come out of the oven and are still hot, pour the prepared icing evenly over the top, spreading quickly to cover the entire surface.
- Cool and serve: Let the bars cool completely at room temperature so the icing sets firmly. Once fully cooled, slice into squares and serve.
Notes
- Ensure the butter for the crust is cooled before mixing to avoid cooking the egg.
- Parchment paper makes it easier to lift the bars out of the pan for cutting.
- The icing should be poured while the bars are still warm to allow it to spread smoothly and set well.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate up to a week.
- This slice pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 23 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Australian
Keywords: Australian chocolate slice, chocolate coconut slice, baked chocolate bars, chocolate slice recipe, Australian dessert
