Newfoundland Five Star Cookie Bar Recipe: A Chocolatey Canadian Classic

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Newfoundland Five Star Cookie Bar Recipe

If you grew up in Newfoundland or spent any time on Canada’s East Coast, chances are you’ve come across the famous Five Star Cookie Bars. These rich, chocolatey squares are made with a beloved Canadian chocolate bar (yes, the Five Star bar!) and layered with gooey, chewy goodness that will instantly satisfy any sweet tooth.

For me, these cookie bars feel like home. I first tried them at a church bake sale in St. John’s, and honestly, it was love at first bite. Imagine the perfect balance of chewy cookie base, chocolatey center, and sweet, melt-in-your-mouth layers. They’ve got that nostalgic “treat your grandmother would make” vibe, and yet they’re so easy that anyone—yes, even beginner bakers—can whip up a batch.

This Newfoundland Five Star Cookie Bar Recipe is simple, decadent, and absolutely crowd-pleasing. Whether you’re baking for a potluck, family gathering, or just because your chocolate craving won’t quit, these bars will become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The best thing about these bars is how unfussy they are. Simple pantry staples come together to create something unforgettable.

For the Base:

  • 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
  • ½ cup unsweetened shredded coconut
  • ½ cup chopped walnuts (or pecans)
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • ½ cup melted butter

For the Chocolate Layer:

  • 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
  • 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 2 Five Star chocolate bars (chopped) – or substitute with your favorite caramel-nougat chocolate bar

For the Topping:

  • ½ cup shredded coconut
  • ¼ cup crushed graham crackers
  • Optional: drizzle of melted chocolate for extra decadence

Substitution Ideas:

  • Nut-Free Option: Skip the walnuts and add sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or extra coconut for crunch.
  • Vegan Option: Use vegan butter, dairy-free sweetened condensed milk, and vegan chocolate chips. A plant-based chocolate bar works beautifully here too.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Swap graham cracker crumbs for gluten-free graham-style cookies.
  • Healthier Twist: Use dark chocolate chips (70% cacao) to cut down on sweetness while keeping the richness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Don’t worry—this recipe is beginner-friendly. Let’s walk through it together.

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.

Step 2: Make the Base

In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, chopped walnuts, brown sugar, and melted butter. Stir until everything is evenly coated. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan to form an even base.

Step 3: Melt the Chocolate Layer

In a saucepan over low heat (or using a double boiler), combine the sweetened condensed milk and chocolate chips. Stir continuously until smooth and glossy. Remove from heat and fold in the chopped Five Star bars.

Step 4: Pour & Spread

Pour the chocolate mixture over the prepared crust, spreading evenly with a spatula. This layer is rich and gooey, so take your time spreading it into the corners.

Step 5: Add the Topping

Sprinkle shredded coconut and crushed graham crackers evenly over the top. If you’re going for full indulgence, drizzle some melted chocolate across the top as well.

Step 6: Chill & Set

Refrigerate the pan for at least 2–3 hours, or until fully set. For quicker results, you can pop it in the freezer for about 45 minutes.

Step 7: Slice & Serve

Once firm, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Cut into squares or rectangles using a sharp knife (wiping the blade between cuts for clean edges).

Extra Tips for Perfect Bars

  • Cutting Clean Slices: Chill well before slicing, and use a hot knife (dip in warm water, then wipe) for smooth cuts.
  • Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze in a sealed bag for up to 2 months.
  • Serving Suggestions: These are perfect with tea or coffee, as part of a holiday dessert platter, or as a lunchbox treat.
  • Flavor Variations: Try swapping Five Star bars for Mars, Snickers, or Caramilk bars for a fun twist.

Nutritional Information (per bar, approx.)

  • Calories: 260
  • Fat: 14g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 22g

(Adapted from The East Coast Kitchen)

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does it take to make the Newfoundland Five Star Cookie Bar Recipe?
A: Just 20 minutes of hands-on time, plus 2–3 hours of chilling to set.

Q: Can I substitute the Five Star chocolate bar?
A: Absolutely! Snickers, Mars, or Caramilk bars work beautifully. The flavor will vary, but the texture and richness remain.

Q: Can I freeze these bars?
A: Yes! Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Q: Do I need to bake them?
A: Nope—this is a no-bake recipe, making it extra quick and easy!

Conclusion: A Sweet Newfoundland Classic

This Newfoundland Five Star Cookie Bar Recipe is one of those desserts that just hits the spot every single time. Rich, chocolatey, chewy, and a little nostalgic, these bars are proof that sometimes the simplest recipes are the most satisfying.

Whether you’re making them for a holiday tray, sharing them with friends, or sneaking a square straight from the fridge (guilty!), these cookie bars will quickly earn a place in your recipe box.

So, grab your ingredients, channel a little East Coast baking spirit, and treat yourself to this Canadian classic. Don’t forget to leave a comment below letting me know how your batch turned out—and of course, share this recipe with friends who love chocolate as much as you do!

Happy baking! 🍫✨