Chocolate Coconut Energy Squares

Name: Chocolate Coconut Energy Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup pitted dates, chopped; 1/2 cup almond butter; 1/4 cup cocoa powder; 1 cup shredded coconut; 1/2 cup rolled oats; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 tsp salt; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Easy Inspiration

I absolutely love these Chocolate Coconut Energy Squares! They are the perfect snack for an afternoon pick-me-up or a pre-workout boost. With a delightful combination of rich chocolate and tropical coconut flavors, these squares satisfy my sweet tooth without the guilt. I appreciate how easy and quick they are to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and about 30 minutes of my time. Plus, they pack a nutritious punch, making them a great healthy treat for anyone looking for a delicious energy source.

Created by

Sybil Hawkes

Last updated on 2026-01-15T18:23:35.667Z

When I first experimented with these squares, I was amazed at how easily the flavors melded together. The cocoa powder combined beautifully with the shredded coconut, creating a wonderfully rich and tropical taste. I love that they require no baking; simply mix everything together, press it into a pan, and chill.

One specific tip I learned is to let them chill for at least an hour before slicing. This helps the squares firm up nicely, making it easier to cut clean edges. The end result is a batch of delicious, chewy bars that I can feel good about indulging in anytime!

Why You'll Love These Squares
Decadent chocolate flavor with a hint of coconut
A quick and healthy snack option
No baking required, making them super easy to whip up

The Perfect Balance of Ingredients

When crafting these Chocolate Coconut Energy Squares, each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the desired texture and taste. The pitted dates are not just a natural sweetener; they provide the sticky base that binds all the ingredients together. If you find dates challenging to process, try soaking them in warm water for 10 minutes to soften them before blending. This ensures a smoother consistency in your energy squares.

Almond butter is not only a great source of healthy fats and protein, but it also adds creaminess to the mixture, giving these squares a luscious mouthfeel. For a variation, you can substitute almond butter with peanut butter or sunflower seed butter if you want a different flavor or if you have nut allergies. Just make sure the butter is smooth to maintain the right texture.

Texture and Visual Cues

Achieving the right texture is key when making these energy squares. After blending the ingredients, the mixture should be thick and cohesive but not overly dry. A good sign is when it holds together well when pressed; if it feels crumbly, adding a touch more almond butter or a drizzle of honey can help merge the elements together. You should aim for a slightly tacky consistency that will firm up wonderfully in the refrigerator.

When pressing the mixture into the lined pan, use a spatula to evenly distribute it. This step is important for ensuring uniform squares that cut nicely after chilling. Pressing it firmly helps the squares hold together better once sliced. A trick I use is to place a sheet of parchment paper on top and apply even pressure with a flat object to avoid sticking.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your Energy Squares:

Ingredients

1 cup pitted dates, chopped
1/2 cup almond butter
1/4 cup cocoa powder
1 cup shredded coconut
1/2 cup rolled oats
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 tsp salt
1 tsp vanilla extract

Mix these ingredients thoroughly for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Chocolate Coconut Energy Squares:

Blend Ingredients

In a food processor, combine the chopped dates and almond butter. Blend until smooth.

Add Remaining Ingredients

Add cocoa powder, shredded coconut, rolled oats, honey, salt, and vanilla. Pulse until well mixed.

Press into Pan

Transfer the mixture into a lined 8x8 inch pan. Press it down firmly and evenly using a spatula.

Chill and Slice

Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up. Once set, slice into squares and enjoy!

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider including nuts or using crushed freeze-dried fruits in the mixture! Adjust the sweetness based on your preference by using more or less honey or maple syrup.

Storage and Shelf Life

These Chocolate Coconut Energy Squares can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, making them an excellent make-ahead option. To extend their shelf life, you can freeze the squares. Just wrap them individually in plastic wrap or wax paper and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy, simply let them thaw in the fridge for a few hours.

If you plan to eat them on the go, consider cutting them into smaller bite-sized squares. This makes them easy to grab as a quick snack throughout the week, preserving their freshness and flavor. Just remember to keep them sealed in a container to retain their moisture.

Delicious Variations

These energy squares are incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize your flavors based on preference. For a nutty flair, you could mix in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans, which would also add a satisfying crunch. If you like a hint of spice, try incorporating a dash of cinnamon or a sprinkle of cayenne for a warm kick.

Coconut lovers can further enhance the tropical taste by adding a few tablespoons of coconut oil, which will make the mixture richer and more decadent. This addition helps improve the binding properties as well, making the squares even more cohesive without impacting the overall flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another nut butter?

Absolutely! Any nut butter like peanut or cashew will work great.

→ How should I store these squares?

Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze Chocolate Coconut Energy Squares?

Yes, they freeze well! Just wrap them tightly and store them in the freezer for up to three months.

→ Are these squares vegan?

Yes, if you use maple syrup instead of honey, they're completely vegan!