Chinese Chews

Chinese Chews Horizontal 2

Chinese Chews: A Classic Chewy Coconut Date Bar

Chinese Chews are a traditional homemade dessert bar that has been loved for generations. Despite the name, the recipe is actually a vintage North American treat that became popular in the early 1900s. These sweet bars are known for their soft, chewy texture and their delicious combination of dates, coconut, brown sugar, and nuts. They are simple to make, require basic pantry ingredients, and are perfect for sharing at gatherings, afternoon tea, or as a sweet snack.

The charm of Chinese Chews lies in their rustic simplicity. The ingredients come together to create a rich, caramel-like flavor from the brown sugar, while the dates add natural sweetness and moisture. Coconut brings a slightly nutty taste and chewy bite, and chopped nuts add a pleasant crunch. When baked, the mixture transforms into soft golden bars that are both comforting and satisfying.

Below is a detailed step-by-step guide to making these classic chewy treats at home.

Ingredients

To prepare a batch of Chinese Chews, you will need:

1 cup chopped dates
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 cup boiling water
1 cup brown sugar (packed)
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
¼ teaspoon salt
1 cup shredded coconut
½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
1 tablespoon butter (for greasing the pan)

Optional for topping:

A light dusting of powdered sugar

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan with butter or line it with parchment paper. This helps prevent the bars from sticking and makes removal much easier after baking.

Step 2: Soften the Dates

Place the chopped dates in a medium bowl. Sprinkle the baking soda over them and pour the boiling water on top.

Stir gently and allow the mixture to sit for about 5 minutes.
The hot water softens the dates and helps break them down slightly, creating a moist base that gives Chinese Chews their characteristic chewy texture.