Australian Chocolate Slice is a beloved Australian bakery-style dessert made with a rich chocolate and coconut base topped with a smooth cocoa icing. It’s quick to make using simple pantry ingredients and is perfect for lunchboxes, afternoon tea, parties, or whenever you’re craving an easy homemade chocolate treat.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20–23 minutes
- Cooling Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: About 1 hour 40 minutes
- Servings: 16 bars
- Course: Dessert
- Cuisine: Australian
- Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
Chocolate Slice Base
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened desiccated coconut
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2½ tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 large egg
- ⅔ cup butter, melted and cooled
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Chocolate Icing
- 1⅓ cups powdered sugar
- 2½ tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1½ tablespoons boiling water
Equipment Needed
- 9×9-inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooling rack
Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
Line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
Step 2 – Make the Chocolate Base
In a medium bowl combine:
- Flour
- Desiccated coconut
- Brown sugar
- Cocoa powder
Add:
- Egg
- Melted butter
- Vanilla extract
Mix just until everything is combined.
Step 3 – Bake
Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan.
Bake for 20–23 minutes, or until the center is set.
Step 4 – Prepare the Icing
About 5 minutes before the bars finish baking:
Whisk together:
- Powdered sugar
- Cocoa powder
Stir in:
- Melted butter
- Boiling water
Mix until completely smooth.
Step 5 – Ice the Slice
As soon as the chocolate slice comes out of the oven, pour the icing over the hot base.
Spread evenly with a spatula so it reaches every corner.
Step 6 – Cool
Allow the slice to cool completely at room temperature until the icing is firm.
Slice into squares or bars before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy with:
- Hot coffee
- Tea
- Cold milk
- Vanilla ice cream
- Fresh berries
- Whipped cream
Storage
Room Temperature
Store in an airtight container for 4–5 days.
Refrigerator
Keeps fresh for up to 1 week.
Freezer
Freeze individual bars for up to 3 months.
Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Tips for Success
- Sift the cocoa and powdered sugar for a silky-smooth icing.
- Don’t overmix the batter to keep the slice tender.
- Pour the icing over the slice while it’s still hot for the smoothest finish.
- Let the icing set completely before cutting for clean, bakery-style squares.
- Use good-quality cocoa powder for the richest chocolate flavor.
Nutrition (Approximate Per Bar)
- Calories: 210
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 12g
- Sugar: 16g
- Fiber: 2g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use sweetened coconut?
Yes, but the bars will be sweeter and slightly chewier.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! They’re even better the next day once the icing has fully set.
Can I add nuts?
Yes. Chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds add a delicious crunch.
Why pour the icing onto the hot slice?
The warmth helps the icing spread smoothly and creates a glossy, even finish.
Final Thoughts
This Australian Chocolate Slice is a timeless homemade dessert that’s rich, fudgy, and incredibly easy to make. With its tender chocolate-coconut base and smooth cocoa icing, it’s the perfect sweet treat for lunchboxes, bake sales, holiday platters, or simply enjoying with a cup of tea. One batch disappears quickly, so you may want to make a double batch!
