Chocolate Coconut Date Energy Squares

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

Highlighted under: Home Healthy Meals Favorites

I absolutely love these Chocolate Coconut Date Energy Squares for their rich, decadent flavor and the energy boost they provide. They’re perfect for a quick snack or a sweet treat to satisfy my cravings without the guilt. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, these no-bake squares are not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. I find that the combination of dates, coconut, and chocolate creates a delightful texture that keeps me coming back for more. Give them a try—you won’t regret it!

Created by

Esme Caldwell

Last updated on 2026-01-14T08:33:35.159Z

Creating these Chocolate Coconut Date Energy Squares was truly a delightful experience. I remember experimenting with different ratios of dates to nuts and quickly found the right balance that gives just the right amount of sweetness and creaminess. The vibrant flavor of coconut complements the rich chocolate perfectly, making each bite a wonderful combination of textures. I also discovered that adding a pinch of salt enhances the sweetness, taking these squares to another level!

What I love most is how versatile this recipe can be—I’ve tried substituting different nuts and seeds, and each time I’m amazed at the diverse flavor profiles that emerge. These energy-packed bites are fantastic for a midday pick-me-up or post-workout snack, and they keep well in the fridge. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen!

        Why You'll Love These Squares
        Decadent chocolate flavor blended with natural sweetness of dates
Nutty texture complemented by shredded coconut
Perfect for satisfying sweet cravings without refined sugars
Quick and easy to make, no baking required

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star ingredients of these Chocolate Coconut Date Energy Squares are the Medjool dates, which provide natural sweetness and serve as a binding agent. Their soft, chewy texture is crucial; so be sure to choose fresh, plump dates. If you can't find Medjool dates, you can substitute with Deglet Noor dates, though they may require a bit of extra moisture or sweetness added to achieve a similar texture.

Coconut adds not just flavor but also a chewiness that complements the rich chocolate. Opt for unsweetened shredded coconut to control the sweetness in your energy squares. This ingredient also contributes healthy fats and fiber to the recipe. If you're aiming for a nut-free version, consider using finely ground sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds instead of almond or peanut butter for the binding effect.

Tips for the Perfect Texture

When blending the mixture, be patient and let the food processor work until it reaches a sticky, cohesive state. If the mixture feels too dry, a splash of water or a small amount of additional nut butter can help achieve the right consistency. On the other hand, if the mixture becomes too wet, a sprinkle of oats or coconut can balance it out.

Pressing the mixture firmly into the baking dish is key to achieving the perfect texture. Make sure to use a spatula or your hands to evenly distribute and compress the mixture. A well-pressed mixture will help the squares hold their shape when cut. If you notice they are crumbly when cutting, simply place them back in the fridge for a little longer to firm up.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you start:

Main Ingredients

1 cup pitted Medjool dates
1/2 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
1/4 cup cocoa powder
1/4 cup almond or peanut butter
1/4 tsp sea salt
1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your energy squares:

Blend the Ingredients

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

Press into a Pan

Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper. Transfer the mixture into the pan and press it down firmly and evenly using the back of a spatula or your hands.

Chill and Cut

Refrigerate the mixture for about 30 minutes to firm up. Once set, lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper, and cut it into squares.

Enjoy your delicious energy squares as a snack!

Pro Tips

For an extra crunch, consider adding some nuts or seeds into the mixture before blending. Store the squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

These energy squares can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, making them a convenient quick snack. For longer storage, you can freeze them by placing parchment paper between the squares to prevent sticking. They will keep well in the freezer for about a month; just allow them to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying.

Serving these squares can be as simple as slicing them up and enjoying them on their own. For a fun twist, you can drizzle with melted dark chocolate or sprinkle additional shredded coconut on top before chilling. They can also be crumbled over yogurt or ice cream for a delicious topping, adding a delightful crunch to your dessert.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to mix up the flavors by adding different ingredients to the base. For a fruity twist, dried cranberries or chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds can enhance the texture and taste. You could even integrate spices like cinnamon or a dash of cayenne for a subtle kick, tailoring the flavor profile to your preference.

If you are looking to adapt the recipe for a different diet, a simple substitution can be made. For those following a vegan diet, ensure that the nut butter is made from solely nuts without any added sweeteners. Additionally, gluten-free oats can replace traditional rolled oats to make this treat suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals, allowing everyone to enjoy these delicious energy squares.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other nuts instead of almond or peanut butter?

Yes, any nut or seed butter will work well in this recipe, so feel free to customize to your taste!

→ How long do these energy squares last?

When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, they can last up to two weeks.

→ Are they gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free oats, these squares are perfect for a gluten-free diet.

→ Can I freeze these energy squares?

Absolutely! Just wrap them individually and store in the freezer for convenient snacks later.