Chocolate Coconut Energy Squares

Name: Chocolate Coconut Energy Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup pitted dates; 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut; 1/2 cup raw almonds; 1/4 cup cocoa powder; 1/4 teaspoon sea salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Simple Kitchen

I love making these Chocolate Coconut Energy Squares whenever I need a boost of energy. The combination of rich chocolate and coconut is simply irresistible, and they come together quickly without any baking. Each square is a delightful treat, perfect for midday cravings or as a healthy dessert option. With just a handful of ingredients, these energy squares are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it easy to indulge without the guilt. Let's dive into this simple yet satisfying recipe!

Created by

Vanessa Whitlock

Last updated on 2026-01-15T14:22:36.711Z

When I first made these Chocolate Coconut Energy Squares, I was blown away by how easy and delicious they turned out. The no-bake method lets the flavors shine without the need for complicated techniques. I blended dates, nuts, cocoa, and coconut in my food processor, and the result was a rich, chewy treat that satisfied my sweet tooth without feeling heavy.

One key tip I discovered is to refrigerate the squares for a couple of hours before cutting them. This helps them firm up and makes slicing easier. Plus, the chilled version gives a refreshing bite, making these perfect for warm days or post-workout snacks!

        Why You'll Love These Treats
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy coconut
Quick and easy preparation without the need to bake
Healthy dose of energy and nutrients in every square

      

Ingredient Insights

Each component in these Chocolate Coconut Energy Squares plays a vital role in both flavor and texture. The pitted dates not only provide natural sweetness but also bind the ingredients together, making them chewy and satisfying. If you find dates too sweet, Medjool dates are a great alternative due to their rich flavor. You can also use dried figs or prunes for a slightly different taste, but the texture may vary.

The raw almonds contribute a delightful crunch, while also adding healthy fats and protein, making these squares filling. If you're nut-free, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds can be substituted without sacrificing nutrition. Just remember to pulse them until they’re finely chopped to mimic the almond texture. Also, to enhance the flavor, lightly toasting the almonds before blending can add a depth that’s truly irresistible.

Perfecting the Texture

Achieving the right consistency is key when preparing your energy squares. When blending, it's important to stop as soon as the mixture becomes sticky but still holds some crumble. If you blend too long, you'll end up with a paste-like consistency that won't hold its shape. If your mixture feels too crumbly, add a teaspoon of water or more dates until it's slightly tacky but still malleable. This balance ensures the squares hold together without becoming too dense.

When pressing the mixture into the pan, use a flat tool, like a spatula, to create an even surface. This helps avoid uneven thickness and ensures that every square has the same texture and firmness. For a fun twist, try layering a thin layer of melted dark chocolate over the top before refrigerating. This adds an extra layer of richness and takes the indulgence up a notch without compromising the health factor.

Ingredients

Energy Squares Ingredients

1 cup pitted dates
1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
1/2 cup raw almonds
1/4 cup cocoa powder
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Combine all ingredients in a food processor until well blended.

Steps

Blend the Ingredients

In a food processor, combine pitted dates, shredded coconut, almonds, cocoa powder, sea salt, and vanilla extract. Pulse until the mixture becomes sticky and crumbly.

Press Into Pan

Line an 8x8 inch pan with parchment paper. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the pan, making sure it's packed tightly.

Chill and Slice

Refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours. Once firm, lift out the parchment paper and slice into squares.

Enjoy your energy squares straight from the fridge for a refreshing treat!

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute different nuts or add in some protein powder for an extra nutritional boost.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These energy squares store beautifully! After they’re sliced, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Simply layer the squares between parchment paper in a freezer-safe container, and they can be kept frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.

Making these squares ahead of time is a fantastic idea, especially for busy weeks. You can whip up a batch on Sunday evening and have a healthy snack ready to grab all week. They are great for pre-workout fuel or an afternoon pick-me-up and are much healthier than store-bought options loaded with added sugars.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to get creative with flavors! If you're a peppermint fan, consider adding a few drops of peppermint extract to the mixture for a refreshing twist. Another delicious variation is to throw in a handful of chocolate chips or dried fruits like cranberries for added texture and flavor. Additionally, incorporating different types of nut butters, like almond or cashew, can also elevate the taste, adding creaminess and richness.

For those who enjoy a bit of spice, adding a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder can complement the chocolate nicely. Experimenting with different extracts, such as almond or coconut, can also transform the taste profile while keeping with the core ingredients. Just remember to adjust the sweetener accordingly, as some extracts can be stronger than others.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different nuts?

Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite nuts or even seeds for a nut-free version.

→ How should I store these energy squares?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze them for longer storage.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! This recipe is naturally vegan as it contains no animal products.

→ What can I substitute for almonds?

You can substitute almonds with cashews, walnuts, or even sunflower seeds if you have nut allergies.