A classic no-fuss treat loved across Australia
Australian Chocolate Slice is a simple, old-fashioned bake that shows up at school fetes, family gatherings, and afternoon tea tables all over Australia. It’s rich, chocolatey, slightly fudgy, and finished with a glossy layer of chocolate icing—easy to make and impossible to resist.
Ingredients
For the slice:
- 1 cup self-raising flour
- 1 cup desiccated coconut
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 125 g butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 egg
For the chocolate icing:
- 1 cup icing sugar (powdered sugar)
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 2–3 tbsp milk
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or wooden spoon
- 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking tin
- Parchment paper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Tin
Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking tin with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the self-raising flour, desiccated coconut, brown sugar, and cocoa powder. Stir well to evenly distribute the cocoa.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Add the melted butter, vanilla extract, and egg to the dry mixture. Stir until fully combined and a thick batter forms.
Step 4: Bake the Slice
Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared tin, pressing it down gently. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until just set. Do not overbake—the slice should remain slightly soft.
Step 5: Make the Icing
While the slice is baking, mix icing sugar and cocoa powder in a bowl. Add melted butter and milk, stirring until smooth and glossy. Adjust milk as needed for spreadable consistency.
Step 6: Ice While Warm
Remove the slice from the oven and spread the chocolate icing over the warm base. This helps the icing set beautifully.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Allow to cool completely in the tin before lifting out and slicing into squares or rectangles.
💡 Tips for Best Results
- Ice the slice while warm, but not hot, for the smoothest finish
- Sift icing sugar and cocoa for lump-free icing
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
🍫 Variations
- Classic Coconut Topping: Sprinkle extra coconut over the icing
- Lunchbox Version: Cut into small squares
- Extra Chocolatey: Add chocolate chips to the base
