Chocolate Almond Coconut Energy Squares

Name: Chocolate Almond Coconut Energy Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup pitted dates; 1 cup rolled oats; 1/2 cup almond butter; 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut; 1/4 cup chopped almonds; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Vitality Kitchen

I absolutely love making these Chocolate Almond Coconut Energy Squares! They are perfect for a quick snack or a post-workout boost. The combination of rich chocolate, nutty almonds, and tropical coconut gives every bite a delightful crunch. Plus, they come together in just a few minutes with minimal effort. Whether I'm hosting friends or enjoying some quiet time, these squares never fail to satisfy my cravings. Trust me; once you try them, they will become a regular feature in your snack repertoire!

Created by

Eliza Thornton

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:37:17.686Z

When I first came up with the idea for these energy squares, I wanted a snack that could keep me going throughout the day. After experimenting with different ingredients, I found that the pairing of chocolate, almonds, and coconut not only provided an energy boost but also satisfied my sweet tooth. I particularly love how the coconut adds a chewy texture that contrasts beautifully with the crunchy almonds.

Using a food processor, I quickly blended the nuts and oats into a fine mixture, which makes a real difference in the final texture. This method keeps the squares from becoming too crumbly, and allows them to hold together perfectly. After a little taste test, I knew I had found a winner!

Why You'll Love These Squares
Rich chocolate flavor balanced with nutty almonds
Coconut adds a delightful chewy texture
Energy-boosting snack that's perfect for any time of day

The Role of Dates and Almond Butter

Pitted dates are the star of this recipe, as they not only provide natural sweetness but also lend a sticky texture that binds the ingredients together. When blended, their sweetness intensifies, creating a rich backdrop for the dark chocolate and nuts. Make sure to use soft, fresh dates for optimal blending—if your dates are a bit dried out, soak them in warm water for about 10 minutes before processing to achieve the best consistency.

Almond butter is another crucial ingredient in these energy squares. It adds creaminess and a robust nutty flavor that complements the chocolate perfectly. If you’re looking for a substitute, you can use cashew butter or peanut butter, but be aware that each will slightly alter the flavor profile of the squares. For those avoiding nut butters entirely, sunflower seed butter works well, giving a similar texture without the allergens.

Tips for Perfect Texture

Achieving the right texture in these energy squares is essential for a satisfying bite. When blending, be cautious not to over-process the mixture. You want a sticky consistency that holds together but still has a bit of crunch from the oats and chopped almonds. If the mixture feels too dry, a tablespoon of water or a bit more almond butter can help bring it together without compromising the flavors.

After pressing the mixture into the prepared dish, ensure that it's compact. Use a flat-bottomed tool, like a measuring cup, to press it down evenly. This prevents crumbly squares that won’t hold their shape. You'll know it's ready to chill when the surface has a smooth, even appearance. Refrigeration is essential; letting it chill for at least an hour allows the squares to firm up, making cutting them into neat pieces much easier.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to whip up your delicious energy squares!

Ingredients

1 cup pitted dates
1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup almond butter
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
1/4 cup chopped almonds
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Combine and enjoy your nutritious squares!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your energy squares.

Blend Ingredients

In a food processor, combine pitted dates, rolled oats, almond butter, dark chocolate chips, shredded coconut, chopped almonds, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Blend until the mixture is well combined and sticky.

Form the Squares

Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper. Transfer the mixture into the dish and press it down firmly to create an even layer.

Chill and Cut

Refrigerate the mixture for about 1 hour or until firm. Once set, lift it out of the dish using the parchment paper and cut it into squares.

Serve and Enjoy

Store the energy squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Enjoy these delicious snacks whenever you need a quick boost!

Now you have a delicious and nutritious snack ready to fuel your day!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, feel free to experiment by adding spices like cinnamon or a scoop of protein powder into the mixture.

Storage and Shelf Life

These Chocolate Almond Coconut Energy Squares store beautifully. You can keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, ensuring they remain fresh and delicious. If you anticipate having more than you can eat within that timeframe, consider freezing them. Wrap individual squares in parchment paper and place them in a freezer-safe bag; they can be frozen for up to three months. Simply thaw at room temperature for a quick snack.

For optimal flavor and texture, it's best to enjoy these squares chilled or at room temperature. If you find them a bit hard after refrigeration, letting them sit out for about 10-15 minutes before enjoying can help soften them slightly, making for a delightful chew without compromising their integrity.

Flavor Variations and Add-Ins

While the classic version of these energy squares is already a winner, there's plenty of room for customization. Consider adding a teaspoon of espresso powder or instant coffee granules to amplify the chocolate flavor. For a tropical twist, you could fold in dried cranberries or pineapple pieces along with the coconut. Just ensure that any additional ingredients are not too moist or they could throw off the balance of texture.

If you're feeling adventurous, you might try incorporating spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm undertone that contrasts beautifully with the chocolate. Another option is to sprinkle some sea salt on top before chilling for that sweet-salty flavor pairing, which is always a crowd-pleaser. Play around with these variations to create your perfect snack!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other nut butters?

Yes! Almond butter can be substituted with peanut butter or any other nut butter you prefer.

→ How long do these squares last?

When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, they can last up to 2 weeks.

→ Can I freeze these energy squares?

Absolutely! You can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them well.

→ What can I substitute for dates?

You can use dried figs or prunes as a substitute for dates if needed.