Chocolate Coconut Energy Squares

Name: Chocolate Coconut Energy Squares
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup pitted dates; 1 cup rolled oats; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 cup shredded coconut; 1/2 cup almond butter; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Natural Collection

I absolutely love making Chocolate Coconut Energy Squares whenever I need a quick boost of energy or a sweet treat. These little squares are packed with rich chocolate and chewy coconut, creating a delightful combination that satisfies my cravings. The best part is that they are simple to prepare with just a few wholesome ingredients. I find that they keep well in the fridge, making them perfect for on-the-go snacking or a post-workout pick-me-up. Trust me, once you try them, you'll want to make them again and again!

Created by

Briony Ashcroft

Last updated on 2026-01-15T14:25:35.007Z

When I first attempted to make these Chocolate Coconut Energy Squares, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to combine such nutritious ingredients. The blend of nuts and coconut gives these bars a wonderful texture, while the cocoa powder adds just the right amount of chocolatey richness. I recommend using unsweetened coconut flakes for a more intense coconut flavor that perfectly balances the sweetness from the dates.

Another great tip I learned is to store these energy squares in the freezer. They firm up beautifully, making them even more satisfying to bite into. Plus, you can easily grab one whenever you need a quick energy fix. I find that sharing them with friends gives me an extra reason to whip up another batch!

        Why You'll Love These Squares
        Decadent chocolate flavor with a tropical twist
No baking required, making them super quick to prepare
Healthy ingredients that provide lasting energy

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in these Chocolate Coconut Energy Squares plays a vital role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor. The pitted dates provide natural sweetness and a sticky consistency that binds the ingredients together. Meanwhile, rolled oats contribute fiber and a hearty bite, creating a satisfying chewiness. Unsweetened cocoa powder gives a rich chocolate flavor without any added sugars, ensuring the squares remain a healthier option while still satisfying your chocolate cravings.

Shredded coconut not only adds a delightful chew and tropical taste, but it also enhances the overall texture of the squares. Opting for unsweetened shredded coconut will keep the squares from becoming overly sweet and preserves the natural flavors of the other ingredients. Lastly, almond butter introduces healthy fats and protein, which helps keep you satiated longer and provides that necessary energy boost, making this a fantastic snack for any time of day.

Perfecting the Preparation

Using a food processor is essential for creating the right consistency in these energy squares. When combining the ingredients, pulse them until you achieve a sticky dough that holds together when pressed. If the mixture feels too crumbly and doesn't stick, consider adding a bit more almond butter or an extra date to help bind it together. It's important to ensure the mixture is well-blended; otherwise, you might encounter dry spots in the finished squares.

Pressing the mixture firmly into the baking dish is equally crucial. I like to use the back of a spatula or my hands to ensure it's compact. This will help the bars hold their shape once cut. Aim for an even layer, as this promotes uniform slicing later on. Don't skip the refrigeration step; chilling the squares is key to achieving that perfect consistency. If you’re in a hurry, consider placing them in the freezer for about 15 minutes instead of the fridge.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These energy squares keep well in the refrigerator, which is ideal for longer storage. Make sure to wrap them individually in parchment paper or place them in an airtight container to maintain freshness. They can last in the fridge for up to two weeks, or you can freeze them for up to three months. Just ensure they are well-sealed to prevent freezer burn—this way, you’ll always have a nutritious snack at your fingertips.

In terms of serving ideas, you can enjoy them as is or sprinkle a few extra coconut flakes or crushed nuts on top for added texture and flavor. For a fun twist, try drizzling melted dark chocolate over the squares before chilling to elevate the taste even further. These squares are perfect for a quick post-workout snack or a delightful addition to a lunchbox—any time you need a boost!

Ingredients

For the Energy Squares

1 cup pitted dates
1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup shredded coconut
1/2 cup almond butter
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Steps

Instructions

Prepare the Mixture

In a food processor, combine the pitted dates, rolled oats, cocoa powder, shredded coconut, almond butter, salt, and vanilla extract. Pulse until the ingredients are well mixed and form a sticky dough.

Form the Squares

Line an 8x8 inch square baking dish with parchment paper. Press the mixture evenly into the dish, making sure it’s tightly packed.

Chill and Cut

Refrigerate the dish for about 30 minutes to firm up. Once set, lift the bars from the dish and cut them into squares.

Store and Enjoy

Keep the energy squares refrigerated or frozen for an easy snack anytime!

Pro Tips

For a flavor twist, try adding chopped nuts or seeds to the mixture. Also, using flavored almond butter can enhance the taste even more!

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with the ingredients based on your dietary preferences or availability! For instance, if you're looking for a nut-free version, substituting sunflower seed butter or tahini for almond butter will work wonderfully. You can also replace the shredded coconut with crushed nuts or seeds for a different texture while maintaining that satisfying crunch.

Additionally, if you want to enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or a few tablespoons of chopped dried fruits, like apricots or cranberries. This can bring a new layer of taste and sweetness to the squares without compromising their healthy aspects. Remember, adjusting these ingredients allows you to cater to various tastes and nutritional needs while keeping the core recipe intact.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your energy squares turn out too crumbly, it likely means not enough moisture was added. To fix this, you can return them to the food processor, adding a bit more almond butter or a splash of water until the mixture is sticky again. Conversely, if they are too sticky to handle, try incorporating a little more cocoa powder or oats to balance out the moisture, ensuring you mix thoroughly.

Another common issue is when the squares don’t cut neatly. If they seem to fall apart while slicing, it might be a sign they haven't chilled long enough. Allowing them to firm up more in the refrigerator or freezer can make all the difference. Using a sharp knife and slicing with a steady hand can also help achieve clean edges, ensuring each square looks as good as it tastes.

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling this recipe up or down is straightforward; simply adjust the quantities of each ingredient proportionally. If you’re making a larger batch, consider using a larger baking dish and increasing the chilling time slightly. Keep a close eye on the texture during preparation to maintain the same consistency for larger portions.

On the other hand, if you want to make a smaller batch, using a smaller dish can help. Just remember to divide each ingredient by the same factor to keep the flavor and texture balanced. Keeping these ratios in mind will guarantee that your Chocolate Coconut Energy Squares remain a hit, regardless of the size of your batch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other nut butters?

Yes, you can substitute almond butter with peanut butter or cashew butter based on your preference.

→ How long do these energy squares last?

They can be stored in the fridge for up to a week or in the freezer for about a month.

→ Are these squares vegan?

Yes, all the ingredients used in this recipe are vegan-friendly!

→ Can I add other toppings?

Absolutely! You can sprinkle some extra coconut or chopped nuts on top before refrigerating for added texture.