Chocolate Coconut Date Energy Squares

Name: Chocolate Coconut Date Energy Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 2 cups pitted Medjool dates; 1 cup rolled oats; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup shredded coconut; 1/4 cup almond butter; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Modern Meals

I love making Chocolate Coconut Date Energy Squares for a quick and healthy snack. Combining the rich flavors of chocolate with the natural sweetness of dates and the crunch of coconut creates a perfect energy booster. These squares are not only easy to make but also packed with nutrients, making them ideal for on-the-go snacking or a guilt-free dessert. They’re a favorite for both kids and adults in my family, and I find that they satisfy my sweet tooth while keeping me energized throughout the day.

Created by

Theodora Blythe

Last updated on 2026-01-14T08:13:35.507Z

When I first experimented with these Chocolate Coconut Date Energy Squares, I was pleasantly surprised by how well the flavors came together. Using pitted dates as a base not only adds sweetness but also binds the ingredients beautifully. I found that adding a pinch of salt really enhances the overall flavor, making each bite even more satisfying.

One tip I have is to refrigerate the squares for at least an hour before slicing. This helps them firm up, making it easier to cut neat squares. Once you try these, you’ll find they become a staple in your snack rotation!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with tropical coconut
No baking required - just mix and chill!
Perfect for a quick energy boost or a sweet treat

      

The Role of Dates in Energy Squares

Pitted Medjool dates are the star of this recipe, providing natural sweetness and a chewy texture. Their sticky consistency helps bind the ingredients together, ensuring that the energy squares hold their shape once chilled. If you find that your dates are a bit too dry, soaking them in warm water for about 10 minutes can help soften them, enhancing their blendability and flavor infusion.

Additionally, dates are packed with essential nutrients, including fiber, antioxidants, and natural sugars, making them an excellent source of quick energy. When blended, they release their natural sweetness, allowing you to use less processed sugar in the mixture. This helps keep your energy squares healthy while satisfying your sweet cravings!

Cocoa and Coconut: A Flavorful Pairing

The unsweetened cocoa powder not only contributes to the rich chocolate flavor but also adds a depth of taste that balances the sweetness from the dates. It’s essential to use unsweetened cocoa to avoid overly sweet squares; I recommend Dutch-processed cocoa for a smoother finish. This enhances the chocolate intensity without overpowering the other flavors.

Shredded coconut adds unique texture and a tropical flair to the squares. Toasting the coconut lightly before adding it to the mixture can amplify its nuttiness, so consider quick toasting in a dry skillet until golden and fragrant. This step is optional but can elevate the overall flavor profile and make your energy squares more inviting.

Customizing and Storing Your Energy Squares

These energy squares can be easily customized to suit various tastes and dietary needs. For example, swapping almond butter for peanut butter or sunflower seed butter accommodates nut allergies while still providing healthy fats. You can also mix in extras like chia seeds or flaxseeds for additional nutrition, just be sure to adjust the consistency by adding a touch more nut butter if needed.

Once prepared, storing your energy squares properly is crucial for maintaining their freshness. I recommend cutting them into squares and storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they can last for up to two weeks. For longer storage, they freeze well, too; simply layer wax paper between the squares to minimize sticking, and they will keep for up to three months.

Ingredients

For the Energy Squares

2 cups pitted Medjool dates
1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup shredded coconut
1/4 cup almond butter
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Blend the Ingredients

In a food processor, combine the pitted dates, rolled oats, cocoa powder, shredded coconut, almond butter, honey, salt, and vanilla extract. Blend until the mixture is well-combined and sticky.

Shape the Mixture

Transfer the mixture to an 8x8-inch baking dish lined with parchment paper. Press the mixture down evenly to form a compact layer.

Chill and Serve

Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Once set, cut into squares and enjoy!

Pro Tips

Try adding nuts or dried fruits to the mixture for added texture and flavor. You can also roll the squares in extra shredded coconut for a decorative touch.

Tips for Mixing and Shaping

When blending the ingredients, it’s important to stop periodically to scrape down the sides of the food processor. This ensures that everything is evenly mixed and there are no dry pockets of cocoa or oats left behind. Blending should take about 1-2 minutes, and the mixture should look uniform and sticky when done.

When it comes to shaping the mixture in the baking dish, use a spatula to press it down firmly. This compaction is key to achieving the right texture—if it’s too loose, the squares may fall apart after chilling. Consider using another piece of parchment to lay over the top and press down to achieve an even surface.

Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Coconut Date Energy Squares are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving ideas. They make for a nutritious on-the-go snack, but you can also serve them at gatherings as a fun dessert option. Drizzling some melted dark chocolate on top just before cutting them into squares can elevate their visual appeal.

If you want to make them even more indulgent, consider adding toppings like crushed nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt before chilling. This not only adds texture but also enhances the flavor contrast that complements the dark chocolate and sweetness perfectly.

Adjusting for Dietary Preferences

If you are looking for a vegan option, replacing honey with maple syrup is an easy swap that maintains the sweetness of the energy squares. You can also experiment with different sweeteners like agave nectar depending on your personal preference, but do keep an eye on the texture to ensure they remain sticky enough to hold together.

For a lower-carb alternative, you can reduce the amount of oats and substitute with ground almonds or coconut flour, but be sure to maintain the balance of wet and dry ingredients to achieve the ideal consistency. Sometimes, it may require a touch more almond butter or a splash of non-dairy milk to bind everything nicely.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I replace the almond butter with another nut butter?

Yes, any nut or seed butter can work well in this recipe.

→ How long do these energy squares last?

They can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the energy squares?

Absolutely! They freeze well for up to 3 months. Just wrap them tightly.

→ Are these squares suitable for vegans?

Yes, by using maple syrup instead of honey, they can be made vegan.