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 Medjool dates, pitted; 1 cup rolled oats; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup shredded coconut; 1/4 cup almond butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; A pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Smart Planning

I absolutely love making these Chocolate Coconut Date Energy Squares whenever I need a quick pick-me-up. They’re not only delicious but also packed with energy from wholesome ingredients. Using dates as the base sweetens the squares naturally, while the rich cocoa and coconut give them an irresistible flavor. I often prepare a batch at the beginning of the week to have on hand for snacks or dessert, and they never last long in my house!

Created by

Violet Kingsley

Last updated on 2026-01-14T07:53:35.427Z

When I first decided to make Chocolate Coconut Date Energy Squares, I was skeptical about how satisfying they would be without any baking involved. I was pleasantly surprised by the results! Blending the dates with high-quality cocoa powder not only created a rich flavor but also a delightful texture that held together perfectly.

One tip I learned is to use Medjool dates for the best taste and texture. They’re soft and sticky, making them ideal for binding the ingredients together. You can also customize the squares by adding nuts or seeds based on what you have available!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate and coconut flavor that satisfies your sweet cravings
Nutritious energy boost perfect for a healthy snack
Quick and effortless to make, with no baking required

      

The Role of Each Ingredient

In this recipe, dates serve as the foundational sweetener, providing a natural caramel-like flavor and a chewy texture. Medjool dates are particularly recommended as they are soft and moist, making them easy to blend. If you need a substitution, you can use dried figs or prunes, but keep in mind they may alter the taste slightly. The combination of almond butter not only binds the ingredients together but also adds healthy fats and protein, making the squares more satisfying.

Cocoa powder is crucial for the rich chocolate flavor that balances the sweetness of the dates. Make sure to use high-quality, unsweetened cocoa for the best flavor. If you're looking for a lighter alternative, you can swap cocoa powder with carob powder, which offers a different, yet pleasant, taste. Coconut brings texture and enhances the tropical flavor profile, so choosing unsweetened shredded coconut will keep the sugar content low and allow the other flavors to shine.

Perfecting the Texture

Achieving the right texture in your energy squares is vital. You want the mixture to be sticky enough to hold together but not too wet. If it's too dry, the squares will crumble apart; too wet, and they won't set properly. If you find your mixture is dry, consider adding a teaspoon of almond milk to help bind it. When blending, let your food processor run until the mixture is glossy and holds together when pressed between your fingers.

After pressing the mixture in the baking dish, ensure it's compact. I use a flat measuring cup to help pack it down evenly without leaving air pockets, which could affect the final texture. A well-packed mixture ensures that your squares will hold together nicely when cut. Once chilled, the energy squares should be firm to the touch but not hard, indicating that they are ready to be cut into perfect portions.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your energy squares:

Ingredients

2 cups Medjool dates, pitted
1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup shredded coconut
1/4 cup almond butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of salt

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

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious energy squares:

Combine Ingredients

In a food processor, blend the pitted dates until they form a sticky paste. Then, add the rolled oats, cocoa powder, shredded coconut, almond butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Pulse until everything is well combined and has a sticky consistency.

Shape the Mixture

Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper. Press the mixture evenly into the dish, making sure it's compact and smooth on top.

Chill and Cut

Place the dish in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up. Once set, lift the parchment paper to remove the block. Cut into squares and enjoy!

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

Pro Tips

Feel free to add your favorite nuts or seeds to these energy squares for added crunch and nutrition. Chia seeds or hemp seeds are excellent choices!

Storage and Shelf Life

These Chocolate Coconut Date Energy Squares can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, making them an ideal grab-and-go snack. For longer storage, consider freezing them. After cutting them into squares, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once firm, transfer the squares to a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They can last up to three months in the freezer.

When you’re ready to enjoy a frozen square, simply let it thaw at room temperature for about 15 minutes before eating. You can also speed up the process by unwrapping and microwaving each square for 10-15 seconds to give it a slight warmth, enhancing the chocolate flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These energy squares are delicious on their own, but you can elevate the experience by pairing them with some fresh fruit or a dollop of nut butter. When serving, consider cutting them into different sizes; larger squares make for a satisfying dessert, while smaller pieces are perfect for snacking. Dusting them lightly with extra cocoa powder or coconut flakes before serving adds an appealing touch.

For a fun twist, you can roll some of the squares in crushed nuts or seeds after they’ve chilled; this adds a delightful crunch and visual appeal. Variations are endless—try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a sweet-salty flavor or incorporating spices like cinnamon for warmth and depth. Experiment to find the combination that excites your palate the most!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the almond butter?

Yes, you can use any nut or seed butter like peanut butter or sunflower seed butter.

→ Are these gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free oats, these energy squares are gluten-free.

→ How long do these squares last?

They can last up to one week in the refrigerator if stored properly in an airtight container.

→ Can I freeze them?

Absolutely! You can freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them well.