Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

Step 2: Make the Base
• Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt.
• Add Wet Ingredients: Stir in the melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract until combined and a thick batter forms.
• Spread in Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly across the bottom.

Step 3: Prepare the Topping
• Combine Topping Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, and chocolate chips (and nuts, if using) until well combined.
• Spread Topping: Spoon the coconut mixture over the chocolate base, spreading it evenly.

Step 4: Bake the Bars
• Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the top is lightly golden.
• Cool: Remove from the oven and let the bars cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Cut and Serve
• Slice: Once cooled, cut into squares or bars.
• Enjoy: Serve and enjoy your delicious Chocolate Coconut Bars!