Chocolate Almond Coconut Squares

Name: Chocolate Almond Coconut Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup almond flour; 1 cup shredded unsweetened coconut; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup maple syrup; 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup chopped almonds (optional); 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (for topping)

Highlighted under: Classic Kitchen

I love making Chocolate Almond Coconut Squares for gatherings because they combine all my favorite flavors in one delightful treat. The rich chocolate base pairs perfectly with the nutty almond and chewy coconut, creating a texture that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. Each bite is a little piece of heaven! These squares are easy to prepare and are sure to impress your friends and family, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve them at a party or enjoy them as an afternoon snack, they never disappoint.

Created by

Vanessa Whitlock

Last updated on 2026-01-15T13:21:36.797Z

When I first crafted these Chocolate Almond Coconut Squares, I was experimenting with my love for chocolate and a few pantry staples. The result was a deliciously satisfying dessert that became an instant favorite among friends. By using almond flour instead of regular flour, I found that the squares had a lovely nutty undertone that complemented the chocolate exceptionally well.

One of my favorite tips is to lightly toast the coconut before adding it to the mix; this enhances its flavor and gives the squares an irresistible aroma as they bake. Trust me, once you try this combination, you’ll want to share these squares with everyone!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with nutty almond
Chewy coconut adds a delightful texture
Perfect for gatherings or a sweet personal treat

      

Understanding Ingredients

Each ingredient in Chocolate Almond Coconut Squares plays a crucial role in achieving the right balance of flavor and texture. Almond flour not only adds a nutty taste but also keeps the squares gluten-free, making them suitable for those with dietary restrictions. The combination of shredded unsweetened coconut and cocoa powder creates a rich, indulgent base, while maple syrup and coconut oil provide moisture and sweetness, complementing the chocolate flavor beautifully.

When selecting your ingredients, opting for high-quality dark chocolate chips is essential for the best flavor. Look for chips with at least 70% cocoa content, as they will melt smoothly and enhance the overall chocolate experience. If you prefer a sweeter topping, you can choose semi-sweet chocolate chips instead, but consider adjusting the sweetness in the base if you're looking for a balanced outcome.

Baking Tips and Techniques

When baking these squares, it's important to monitor the integrity of the edges while they bake. You want to achieve a soft center with slightly firmer edges. A good visual cue is to look for a slight dome effect on the top and a shiny surface when you remove them from the oven. Set a timer for 20 minutes, but check around the 18-minute mark to prevent overbaking, as the texture should remain fudgy.

Letting the squares cool completely before slicing is key to achieving clean cuts. If you find them too crumbly, the mixture may need a touch more moisture or an additional binding agent like an extra tablespoon of maple syrup. For an even more enhanced chocolate experience, consider folding in a tablespoon of espresso powder into the batter, which intensifies the chocolate flavor without adding any coffee taste.

Serving and Storage Suggestions

These Chocolate Almond Coconut Squares are versatile and can be served warm, allowing the chocolate topping to be melty and extra indulgent. If you prefer a firmer texture, place them in the refrigerator for at least an hour after they cool down, which also makes them easier to slice. For added flair, consider serving them alongside fresh berries or a dollop of whipped coconut cream to elevate the dessert experience.

Storing these squares is simple: keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate them for up to a week. If you want to make them in advance, consider freezing them. Wrap each square individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months—simply thaw at room temperature before indulging.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your own Chocolate Almond Coconut Squares:

Ingredients

1 cup almond flour
1 cup shredded unsweetened coconut
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup maple syrup
1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chopped almonds (optional)
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (for topping)

Ensure you have all ingredients ready before starting the preparation for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Chocolate Almond Coconut Squares:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine almond flour, shredded coconut, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir until well mixed.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, mixing until well integrated. Fold in chopped almonds if using.

Bake

Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 20 minutes. Remove and let cool.

Add Topping

While still warm, sprinkle dark chocolate chips over the top and let them melt slightly. Spread the melted chocolate for an even layer.

Slice and Serve

Once cooled completely, lift the squares out using the parchment paper, slice into squares, and enjoy!

Remember to store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding a pinch of sea salt to the melted chocolate on top—it enhances the flavor of the chocolate wonderfully!

Substitutions and Variations

There are plenty of ways to customize this recipe to meet your dietary needs or personal preferences. For a nut-free alternative, you can substitute almond flour with sunflower seed flour, which will also maintain a similar texture. If you're not a fan of coconut, consider swapping the shredded coconut for rolled oats for a chewier bite. Alternatively, you could use a nut milk-based chocolate chip to keep things dairy-free.

If you're looking for a variation on flavors, consider adding spices such as cinnamon or a dash of sea salt to the chocolate topping for an unexpected twist. You could also experiment with different nut toppings, such as walnuts or pecans, adding a unique flavor and crunch that pairs well with the chocolate.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

When first trying this recipe, some might experience issues with the squares being too dense or dry. This often occurs due to overmixing the batter or using too much cocoa powder. To remedy this, make sure to gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry until just combined, ensuring not to overwork the batter. Also, be precise in measuring your cocoa to keep that rich chocolate flavor without making the mixture too dry.

Another common issue is the topping not melting properly. If this happens, return the pan to the warm oven for another minute or two. Just remember to keep an eye on it to prevent the chocolate from becoming too blob-like; you want a smooth layer that can be spread evenly over the base.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular flour instead of almond flour?

Yes, but the texture and flavor will differ. Almond flour gives these squares a unique nuttiness.

→ How should I store these squares?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Refrigeration can extend their freshness.

→ Can I make these vegan?

Absolutely! The recipe is already naturally dairy-free and you can substitute the maple syrup with another syrup of your choice.

→ What can I substitute for coconut oil?

You can use melted vegan butter, but coconut oil adds a delicious flavor that is hard to replicate.