Chocolate Coconut Date Energy Squares

Name: Chocolate Coconut Date Energy Squares
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup Medjool dates, pitted; 1 cup raw almonds (or nuts of your choice); 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup shredded unsweetened coconut; 1/4 cup chia seeds; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Wholesome Healthy Meals Ideas

I absolutely love making these Chocolate Coconut Date Energy Squares whenever I’m in need of a quick energy boost. With the perfect balance of rich chocolatey flavor and a touch of coconut, they satisfy my sweet cravings without any guilt. Preparing these squares is incredibly simple, requiring just a handful of wholesome ingredients. I find that they are perfect for a pre-workout snack or an afternoon pick-me-up, and they keep well in the fridge, making them an excellent choice for meal prep. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen!

Created by

Genevieve Porter

Last updated on 2026-01-14T06:29:34.914Z

When I first stumbled upon this recipe for Chocolate Coconut Date Energy Squares, I was intrigued by how healthy yet indulgent they seemed. After experimenting with various ingredient ratios, I discovered that the combination of dates and nuts creates a surprisingly delightful texture that gives you energy without a sugar crash. I recommend using Medjool dates for their rich sweetness!

One of the best tips I can share is to use a food processor, which makes blending the nuts and dates effortless. I like to leave a few nut pieces for added crunch. Honestly, the moment you bite into these squares, you’ll appreciate how satisfying and delicious they are. Plus, they’re naturally sweetened, so you can enjoy them guilt-free!

Why You'll Love These Energy Squares
Rich chocolate and coconut flavor in every bite
Naturally sweetened with dates for a healthier treat
Perfectly portable for on-the-go snacking

Understanding Ingredients

The selection of ingredients in these Chocolate Coconut Date Energy Squares plays a crucial role in both flavor and texture. Medjool dates are particularly important as they are naturally sweet and sticky, providing the perfect binding element for your squares. If you're in a pinch and don't have Medjool dates, you can substitute with any other soft date variety, but the texture may vary slightly. Additionally, the unsweetened cocoa powder contributes a rich chocolate flavor without added sugar, making these squares a healthier alternative to traditional sweets.

Using raw almonds not only offers a delightful crunch but also boosts the protein content of these energy squares. If you're looking for a nut-free version, sunflower seeds work remarkably well as a substitute. Just keep an eye on potential allergies if you plan to share these delicious treats. The chia seeds add a nice texture and pack in omega-3 fatty acids; if you happen to be out of chia seeds, flaxseeds can serve as a suitable replacement.

Preparation Techniques

The first step to achieve the ideal consistency is to ensure that all the ingredients are well-combined in the food processor. When pulsing, stop occasionally to scrape down the sides, ensuring everything gets uniformly mixed. You want to achieve a consistency where the mix holds together when squeezed in your hand. If your mixture feels too dry, adding a teaspoon of water or a little extra date can help bind it better. Conversely, if it's too sticky, a bit more cocoa powder can help absorb excess moisture.

Pressing the mixture firmly into the lined pan is crucial for achieving sturdy squares. Using a spatula helps to create an even layer and reduces air pockets. I recommend using a piece of parchment paper that hangs over the edges of the pan, making it easier to lift the bars out once they’ve set. Once you have pressed it down, consider using a flat-bottomed object, like a measuring cup, to further compact the mixture into the corners of the pan.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your energy squares:

Ingredients

1 cup Medjool dates, pitted
1 cup raw almonds (or nuts of your choice)
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup shredded unsweetened coconut
1/4 cup chia seeds
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Adjust the nuts and sweetness according to your taste!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your energy squares:

Blend Ingredients

In a food processor, combine the pitted dates, almonds, cocoa powder, shredded coconut, chia seeds, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Pulse until the mixture is finely chopped and begins to stick together.

Form Squares

Transfer the mixture to an 8x8-inch square pan lined with parchment paper. Use your hands or a spatula to press the mixture firmly into an even layer.

Chill and Cut

Refrigerate for about 30 minutes to firm up. Once chilled, remove from the pan and cut into squares.

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

Pro Tips

For an extra boost, consider adding a tablespoon of nut butter before blending. It adds creaminess and enhances the flavor!

Storage Tips

Once cut into squares, these energy bars can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. To freeze, simply layer parchment paper between the squares to prevent them from sticking together, and place them in a freezer bag. When you're ready to enjoy, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator for about an hour.

Keeping the energy squares in a cool, dry place is essential to maintain their texture and flavor. If they become too warm, they may soften and lose their structural integrity. If you live in a particularly hot environment, storing them in the fridge is a smart choice to keep them firm and fresh.

Serving Suggestions

These energy squares can be enjoyed on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. For a more indulgent treat, dip half of each square in melted dark chocolate and sprinkle with extra shredded coconut before cooling. This elevates the flavor profile while keeping the energy-boosting benefits intact.

For a nutritious breakfast option, crumble these energy squares over yogurt or oatmeal. This adds a delightful crunch and a touch of sweetness that can brighten up your morning routine. You can also experiment by adding a layer of nut butter on top for added healthy fats and protein.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different nuts?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute almonds with walnuts, cashews, or any nuts you prefer.

→ How can I make them sweeter?

You can add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup if you like them sweeter.

→ Can I freeze these energy squares?

Yes, these squares freeze well! Just wrap them tightly and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

→ Are these squares gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients used are gluten-free, making them a safe snack for those with gluten sensitivities.