Australian Chocolate Slice – A Classic School Lunch Box Treat
Australian Chocolate Slice is one of those nostalgic, simple desserts that instantly brings comfort. If you’ve ever lived in Australia or spent time around Australian home cooking, chances are you’ve seen — or eaten — a chocolate slice just like this one. Found in school lunchboxes, bakery windows, community bake sales, and home kitchens, this humble chocolate bar has been loved by generations.
It’s not fancy. It doesn’t require special equipment. There’s no complicated technique. And that’s exactly what makes it wonderful.
This recipe produces a soft, rich, chocolatey base with just a hint of coconut, topped with a smooth cocoa icing that sets into a glossy finish. It’s sweet without being overwhelming, tender without being crumbly, and sturdy enough to pack into lunchboxes or serve at gatherings.
Let’s take a deeper look at this classic Australian favorite, how to make it perfectly every time, and how to adapt it to suit your taste.
Why You’ll Love This Australian Chocolate Slice
- Uses simple pantry ingredients
- No mixer required
- Quick to prepare and bake
- Perfect for lunchboxes, parties, and bake sales
- Freezer-friendly
- Easy to customize with flavors or toppings
The History of Australian Chocolate Slice
The Chocolate Slice is a staple of Australian home baking. It’s similar in spirit to brownies or tray bakes in other countries, but its texture is lighter, more cake-like, and often includes coconut — a popular baking ingredient in Australia.
It became popular because it was affordable, easy to transport, and easy to make in large batches. Schools, churches, and families embraced it as a practical treat that could feed many people with very little effort.
Today, it remains a beloved classic, often passed down through handwritten recipe cards and family traditions.
Ingredients
For the Bars
- 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
For the Icing
- 1⅓ cups powdered sugar
- 2½ tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1½ tablespoons boiling water
How to Make Australian Chocolate Slice
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
Step 2: Mix the Base
In a medium bowl, combine flour, coconut, brown sugar, and cocoa powder. Stir well to evenly distribute.
Add the egg, melted butter, and vanilla. Stir until just combined. The mixture will be thick and slightly sticky.
Step 3: Bake
Press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 20–23 minutes, or until the center is set.
Step 4: Make the Icing
About 5 minutes before the bars are done baking, prepare the icing. Sift together powdered sugar and cocoa. Add melted butter and boiling water, stirring until smooth and glossy.
Step 5: Ice While Hot
Pour icing over the hot slice straight from the oven. Spread evenly. Allow to cool completely before slicing.
Tips for Perfect Chocolate Slice
- Do not overbake — the slice should be soft.
- Ice while hot so the icing melts into the surface slightly.
- Let cool completely before cutting to get clean slices.
- Use good-quality cocoa for best flavor.
Flavor Variations
- Add ½ cup chocolate chips to the base.
- Stir in orange or lemon zest.
- Replace coconut with ground almonds.
- Add espresso powder for a mocha version.
- Top with sprinkles, coconut, or chopped nuts.
Storage Instructions
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Refrigerator: Keeps for up to 7 days.
Freezer: Freeze slices individually wrapped for up to 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes — substitute flour with a gluten-free baking blend.
Can I reduce the sugar?
You can reduce sugar slightly, but texture will change.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes — bake in a 9×13 pan and add 5–10 minutes to baking time.
Is this like brownies?
It’s lighter and more cake-like than brownies, with coconut texture.
Serving Ideas
- Pack into lunchboxes
- Serve with coffee or tea
- Add whipped cream and berries for dessert
- Use as a base for ice cream sandwiches
Final Thoughts
Australian Chocolate Slice is proof that simple recipes are often the best. It’s comforting, easy, and deeply nostalgic. Whether you grew up with it or are discovering it for the first time, this recipe is one worth keeping.
Make a batch, share it with friends and family, and enjoy a little taste of classic Australian home baking — wherever you are in the world.
Happy baking!