Homemade Chocolate-Covered Coconut Bars

**Ingredients:**

– 2 cups shredded coconut
– 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil (or vegetable oil)

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Coconut Mixture:**
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract. Mix well until the coconut is thoroughly coated and the mixture holds together.

2. **Shape the Bars:**
– Using your hands, form the coconut mixture into small bars or bite-sized pieces. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

3. **Chill the Bars:**
– Put the shaped coconut bars in the refrigerator for about 1 hour to firm up.

4. **Melt the Chocolate:**
– In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.

5. **Coat the Bars:**
– Dip each chilled coconut bar into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated. Use a fork to lift the bar out of the chocolate, allowing any excess chocolate to drip off.
– Place the chocolate-covered bars back on the parchment-lined baking sheet.

6. **Chill Again:**
– Put the coated bars back in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is set.

7. **Serve and Enjoy:**
– Once the chocolate is firm, your homemade chocolate-covered coconut bars are ready to enjoy! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding nuts, using dark chocolate, or drizzling with white chocolate for a decorative touch. Enjoy your delicious homemade treat!