Chocolate Almond Coconut Energy Squares

Name: Chocolate Almond Coconut Energy Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup Medjool dates, pitted; 1/2 cup almonds; 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut; 1/4 cup cocoa powder; 1/4 cup nut butter (almond or peanut); 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; A pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Chocolate Almond Coconut Energy Squares because they pack a delicious punch of flavor while keeping me energized throughout the day. The combination of chocolate, almond, and coconut creates a mouthwatering treat that is surprisingly easy to whip up. When I'm looking for a quick snack or a healthy dessert after dinner, these squares hit the spot every time. Plus, they are no-bake, which means I can have a wholesome treat ready in no time!

Created by

Brielle Thompson

Last updated on 2026-01-15T16:19:16.847Z

When I first created these Chocolate Almond Coconut Energy Squares, I wanted to come up with a recipe that was not only delicious but also provided a healthy boost of energy. The blend of dates, almonds, and chocolate gives you that perfect balance of sweetness and texture that makes these squares irresistible. Each bite is a treat!

One tip I discovered is to keep the mixture a bit chunky. It adds a delightful crunch, which contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of the chocolate. Plus, using a good quality dark chocolate enhances the flavor immensely. Trust me, it’s all about the right ingredients!

        Why You'll Love These Energy Squares
        Rich chocolate flavor with a tropical twist from coconut
Packed with healthy fats and energy-boosting nutrients
Perfect for on-the-go snacking or a midday pick-me-up

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in the Chocolate Almond Coconut Energy Squares serves a specific purpose to create a burst of flavor and nutrition. Medjool dates are not only a natural sweetener but also provide the sticky base that ties everything together, giving these squares their satisfying chewiness. Almonds contribute healthy fats and a slight crunch, while the unsweetened shredded coconut introduces a delightful texture and tropical sweetness. The cocoa powder provides rich chocolate flavor without the added sugars, keeping these squares wholesome yet indulgent.

Selecting high-quality ingredients can elevate the taste of your energy squares. For example, opt for fresh, plump Medjool dates; if they're too dried out, they won't blend smoothly, leading to a crumbly texture rather than a cohesive square. If you're out of almonds, you can substitute with cashews or walnuts, but keep in mind that the flavor profile will change. The nut butter is essential not only for binding but also for adding creaminess; almond butter complements the square’s flavors beautifully while peanut butter will impart a different, yet equally delicious, character.

Tips for Perfect Energy Squares

When blending the ingredients, make sure not to over-process the mixture. You want it to be sticky enough to hold together but still have some texture from the almonds and coconut. If the mixture appears too crumbly, consider adding a teaspoon of water at a time until you achieve the right consistency. Conversely, if it's too wet, a sprinkle of extra cocoa powder can help absorb some moisture without sacrificing flavor.

Pressing the mixture into the baking dish works best when you take the time to create an even layer. Use a spatula or your fingers to firmly compact the mixture into the corners of the dish, ensuring your energy squares retain their shape when cut. After refrigerating, let the slab sit for a few minutes at room temperature to make slicing easier. A warm knife can also help achieve clean edges, resulting in a more polished treat.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your delicious energy squares:

Ingredients

1 cup Medjool dates, pitted
1/2 cup almonds
1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
1/4 cup cocoa powder
1/4 cup nut butter (almond or peanut)
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
A pinch of salt

These ingredients will blend together to create a delightful energy-packed treat!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your energy squares:

Blend the Ingredients

In a food processor, combine the pitted dates and almonds. Pulse until finely chopped. Add shredded coconut, cocoa powder, nut butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Blend until the mixture is sticky and holds together.

Shape the Mixture

Transfer the mixture to an 8x8 inch baking dish lined with parchment paper. Press down firmly with your hands or a spatula to create an even layer.

Chill and Cut

Refrigerate the mixture for about 30 minutes to firm up. Once set, lift the parchment paper to remove the slab from the dish. Cut into squares.

Store and Enjoy

Store the energy squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Enjoy whenever you need a quick energy boost!

Savor every bite of your homemade Energy Squares!

Pro Tips

For a variation, try adding in chia seeds or a hint of cinnamon for added flavor and nutrition.

Storing Your Energy Squares

To keep your energy squares fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will maintain their texture and prevent them from drying out. They can last up to two weeks, but I often find they’re gone much sooner when shared with friends or family. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Cut the squares and layer them between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. They can last in the freezer for up to three months, providing a quick energy fix whenever you need one.

If you’re making these energy squares for meal prep, you can easily double or triple the recipe. Just ensure you have a larger food processor for mixing. Keeping the proportions consistent will ensure that the flavor remains as delicious as the original batch.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

Feel free to get creative with the ingredients! For a caramel-like flavor, try adding a tablespoon of maple syrup or honey if you're not strictly vegan. Alternatively, incorporate different nuts or seeds such as sunflower seeds for added nutrition. Additionally, a dollop of nutmeg or cinnamon can enhance the squares with warm spice notes, making them suitable for seasonal snacking.

These energy squares make for a versatile treat. You can enjoy them as a pre-workout snack for sustained energy or as a satisfying dessert after dinner. Pair them with fresh fruit or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a complete snack. They also make fantastic additions to lunchboxes for both adults and kids alike—healthy, delicious, and easy to grab on the go!

Questions About Recipes

→ How long can I store these energy squares?

You can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

→ Can I substitute the almonds with another nut?

Yes, you can use any nut of your choice, such as cashews or walnuts.

→ Are these energy squares vegan?

Yes, as long as you use a plant-based nut butter, these squares are completely vegan.

→ Can I freeze the energy squares?

Absolutely! They freeze well. Just wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container.