Chocolate Almond Coconut Energy Squares

Name: Chocolate Almond Coconut Energy Squares
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup rolled oats; 1/2 cup almond butter; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/2 cup shredded coconut; 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/4 cup chopped almonds; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Chocolate Almond Coconut Energy Squares for a quick snack or a post-workout boost. The combination of rich chocolate, nutty almond, and chewy coconut creates a deliciously satisfying treat that keeps my energy levels up. They're incredibly easy to whip up, needing no baking at all! With just a few wholesome ingredients, I can have a batch ready in under 20 minutes. Plus, they stay fresh in the fridge for a week, making them perfect for meal prep and on-the-go munching.

Created by

Helena Wright

Last updated on 2026-01-15T16:16:21.845Z

When I first started making these Energy Squares, I was amazed at how simple yet delicious they were. I experimented with different nut butters and found that almond butter adds a lovely balance of flavor that complements the sweetness of the chocolate and coconut. It's also a great source of protein!

To get the best texture, I learned that pulsing the oats and nuts in a food processor creates a perfect crumbly base. Pressing the mixture firmly into the pan ensures that the squares hold together well, making them easy to cut and grab when I'm on the go.

        Why You'll Love These Squares
        Nutty almond flavor melded with rich chocolate
Chewy coconut adds an irresistible texture
Perfect for pre-workout energy or a healthy snack

      

Understanding Your Ingredients

The combination of rolled oats, almond butter, and honey forms the base of these energy squares. Rolled oats provide a hearty texture and are packed with fiber, helping to keep you feeling full. Almond butter not only adds a creamy richness but also contributes protein and healthy fats, which are essential for sustained energy. If you're nut-free or aiming for a different flavor, you can substitute almond butter with sunflower seed butter, though it may alter the squares' taste slightly.

Coconut plays an important role in adding moisture and chewiness to each square. Shredded coconut enhances the flavor profile, making each bite feel tropical and indulgent. Make sure to use unsweetened shredded coconut to control the sweetness. If you're not a fan of coconut, you could swap it out for chopped dried fruits like apricots or figs, but be mindful that this will change both texture and taste.

Dark chocolate chips are not just a treat; they also boost the squares with antioxidants. Opt for high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for a richer flavor. You can even use cocoa nibs for a more intense chocolate flavor without the added sweetness or replace them with carob chips for a caffeine-free alternative.

Techniques for Perfect Texture

Pressing the mixture firmly into the baking dish is crucial for the integrity of your energy squares. If you don't pack it tightly enough, they may crumble when you cut them. Use a flat object, like the bottom of a measuring cup, to ensure an even surface. The more compact the mixture, the better they will hold together once chilled.

Chilling the squares is essential for helping the ingredients meld together. Aim for an hour if you want them to be very firm; however, a minimum of 10 minutes will help set them enough for cutting. If they seem soft after chilling, consider adding extra rolled oats or a bit more almond butter, as these ingredients absorb moisture and can help firm up the mixture.

If you find yourself with leftovers, these squares can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. For longer storage, slice and freeze them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. This way, you’ll have a ready-to-go snack anytime you need a quick energy boost!

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your energy squares:

Ingredients

1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup almond butter
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/2 cup shredded coconut
1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
1/4 cup chopped almonds
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your energy squares:

Prepare the base mixture

In a large bowl, mix the rolled oats, almond butter, honey, shredded coconut, salt, and vanilla extract until well combined. If the mixture is too dry, add a little more almond butter or honey.

Add chocolate and almonds

Stir in the dark chocolate chips and chopped almonds for added crunch and flavor.

Press into a pan

Transfer the mixture into a lined 8x8 inch baking dish, pressing down firmly to create an even layer. This step is crucial for ensuring your squares hold together.

Chill and cut

Place the dish in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes to set. Once firm, remove from the dish and cut into squares.

Store your energy squares in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize these squares by adding dried fruit, seeds, or different nuts to suit your taste. You can also dip them in melted chocolate for an extra treat!

Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Almond Coconut Energy Squares can be enjoyed straight from the fridge, making them an ideal snack for your busy mornings or a mid-afternoon boost. Pair them with a piece of fruit or a handful of nuts for a balanced snack that keeps you on track with your health goals. I sometimes break them into smaller pieces and toss them into my yogurt for added texture and sweetness.

For a little extra indulgence, consider drizzling some melted dark chocolate over the top after cutting them into squares. Let it set for about 15 minutes in the fridge before serving for a decadent touch that feels like a treat. Alternatively, roll the squares in crushed nuts or cacao powder for added visual appeal and flavor.

If you want to use these squares as a breakfast option, I find they pair wonderfully with a smoothie or a cup of coffee. Simply break one up and add it to your morning smoothie bowl for a satisfying crunch that will keep you motivated throughout your busy day.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

One common issue when making these squares is that they can fall apart if not pressed firmly enough into the baking dish. When combining your ingredients, be sure to take the time to mix thoroughly and pack down evenly. If they seem too crumbly after chilling, next time, try adding a little more binding ingredient such as almond butter or honey to help hold them together better.

If the mixture feels too sticky while you're mixing, don't hesitate to add a touch more oats or coconut. This will help absorb excess moisture and balance out the texture. Alternatively, if the mixture is too dry and crumbly, a splash of warm water or a bit more almond butter can help create a suitable consistency.

In the unlikely event that your squares are too hard after chilling, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften up a bit before attempting to cut. They should be firm yet slightly pliable. If you want to avoid this issue in the future, consider adjusting the chilling time to suit your personal preference for texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other nut butters?

Absolutely! Other nut butters like peanut butter or cashew butter work well in this recipe.

→ How long do these energy squares last?

They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these squares?

Yes, you can freeze them! Just wrap each square in parchment paper and store them in an airtight container.

→ What can I use instead of honey?

Maple syrup or agave syrup are great vegan alternatives to honey.