Classic Australian Chocolate Slice

Introduction

If you’ve ever spent time in Australia, there’s a good chance you’ve seen — or tasted — a chocolate slice just like this one.
Australian Chocolate Slice is a true classic, commonly found in school lunchboxes, local bakeries, and home kitchens across the country.

This simple bar dessert is the kind of recipe generations have grown up with. The base is rich and chocolatey with just a hint of coconut,
topped with a smooth cocoa icing that sets beautifully. Best of all, it comes together quickly using pantry staples you probably already have.

Recipe Information (Formation)

• Recipe Name: Australian Chocolate Slice
• Category: Bars & Slices
• Cuisine: Australian
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Bake Time: 20–23 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 12–16 bars

Ingredients

For the 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

For the Icing

• 1 1/3 cups powdered sugar
• 2 1/2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 3 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 1/2 tablespoons boiling water

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
2. In a medium bowl, combine flour, desiccated coconut, brown sugar, and cocoa powder.
3. Add the egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and press firmly into an even layer.
5. Bake for 20–23 minutes, or until the slice is cooked through the center.
6. About 5 minutes before the slice is done, prepare the icing.
7. In a bowl, sift together powdered sugar and cocoa powder.
8. Add melted butter and boiling water, mixing until smooth and glossy.
9. Remove the slice from the oven and immediately pour the icing over the hot base.
10. Quickly spread the icing evenly to the edges.
11. Allow to cool completely at room temperature before slicing.

Preparation Methods

• Traditional Baking Method: Oven-baked for a firm yet soft texture.
• One-Bowl Mixing: Simple preparation with minimal cleanup.
• Hot-Icing Method: Pouring icing over the hot base ensures perfect adhesion.

History of Australian Chocolate Slice

Chocolate slice is a staple of Australian home baking, with roots in community cookbooks and school fundraising stalls.
It was designed to be affordable, filling, and easy to make — perfect for feeding families and crowds.

Over time, countless variations emerged, but the classic cocoa-and-coconut version remains the most beloved and widely recognized.

Benefits

• Made with simple, affordable pantry ingredients
• Perfect make-ahead dessert
• Easy to transport for lunches and gatherings
• Customizable with nuts or extra coconut

Why People Love This Slice

This recipe is loved for its nostalgic flavor, soft-yet-firm texture, and rich chocolate icing.
It’s sweet without being overpowering and satisfying without being heavy — the ideal everyday treat.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with tea or coffee
• Pack into lunchboxes
• Cut into small squares for parties
• Enjoy as an afternoon snack

Conclusion

Australian Chocolate Slice is proof that simple recipes often become the most treasured.
With its chocolatey base, hint of coconut, and classic cocoa icing, this timeless dessert continues to bring comfort and joy.

Bake it once, and you’ll understand why it has remained a favorite in Australian homes for generations.