Chocolate Almond Coconut Energy Bars

Name: Chocolate Almond Coconut Energy Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 10 bars
Ingredients: 1 cup dates, pitted; 1/2 cup almonds; 1/2 cup rolled oats; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/4 cup shredded coconut; 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Favorite Baking Inspiration

I love making Chocolate Almond Coconut Energy Bars because they are a perfect blend of rich chocolate and nutty flavors. These bars are not only satisfying but also energy-boosting, making them ideal for a quick snack on the go. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a bit of time, I can whip up a batch that keeps me fueled throughout the day. Plus, they are no-bake, which means less fuss and more time enjoying these delicious treats. Seriously, you won’t want to miss out on this recipe!

Created by

Honoria Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-21T22:49:35.100Z

Making these Chocolate Almond Coconut Energy Bars has been a game changer for my snack routine. I remember the first time I tried making energy bars at home; I was pleasantly surprised at how easy and quick it was. The combination of almonds and cocoa gives them a deliciously decadent taste while still being nutritious.

What I love most is that I can customize the ingredients based on what I have at home. For example, swapping out almonds for walnuts or adding a sprinkle of sea salt right before serving elevates the flavor. So, don't hesitate to experiment and make this recipe your own!

Why You Will Love These Bars
Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy almonds
Nutritious coconut adds texture and flavor
Perfect for a quick snack or energy boost

Ingredient Spotlight

Each ingredient in these Chocolate Almond Coconut Energy Bars plays a vital role in both flavor and texture. Dates are the star, providing natural sweetness and a chewy texture that binds everything together. When pulsed into the mix, they create that essential sticky consistency that helps the bars hold their shape. If you can’t find fresh dates, you can substitute with dried figs or prunes, but make sure to adjust the sweetness to your taste.

Almonds contribute a delightful crunch and a rich nuttiness that pairs beautifully with the chocolate. For an extra layer of flavor, consider toasting the almonds lightly in a dry skillet for 5-7 minutes until golden. Just keep an eye on them to prevent burning. If you prefer a nut-free version, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds can be used as excellent alternatives while still offering a satisfying bite.

Techniques and Tips

When blending your ingredients, it’s important to pulse rather than blend continuously. This prevents the mixture from turning too smooth and ensures a pleasant texture with small bits of nuts and coconut. Pulse until you achieve a sticky dough consistency that holds together when pressed. If it seems too crumbly, add a tiny bit more honey or maple syrup, a teaspoon at a time, until it reaches the desired texture.

Pressing the mixture into the pan efficiently is crucial for achieving the perfect bar density. I recommend using a flat-bottomed measuring cup or your hands to compress the mixture firmly, ensuring there are no air pockets. This process helps the bars hold together once cooled and cut. Don’t skip the chilling step; cooling for at least an hour helps them set properly, making cutting into bars much easier.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your energy bars.

Ingredients

1 cup dates, pitted
1/2 cup almonds
1/2 cup rolled oats
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup shredded coconut
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
1/4 teaspoon salt

Once you've gathered these, you're ready to create your delightful energy bars!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your energy bars.

Blend Ingredients

In a food processor, combine dates, almonds, rolled oats, cocoa powder, shredded coconut, honey or maple syrup, and salt. Pulse until the mixture forms a sticky dough.

Press into Pan

Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper. Transfer the mixture into the dish and press down firmly to create an even layer.

Chill and Cut

Place the baking dish in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. Once chilled, lift the mixture out using the parchment paper, and cut into bars.

Enjoy your homemade energy bars as a delicious and nutritious snack!

Pro Tips

For added variation, try mixing in dried fruits like cranberries or a sprinkle of chia seeds for extra nutrition.

Make-Ahead and Storage

These energy bars can be made in advance and stored for up to a week in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want to extend their shelf life, they freeze remarkably well. Wrap each bar in parchment paper and place them in a freezer-safe bag, where they can last up to three months. Simply thaw them in the fridge or at room temperature for a quick grab-and-go snack.

For best results, avoid storing these bars in direct sunlight or overly warm areas, as this can affect the texture and flavor. If they tend to get too soft, popping them back into the fridge for a short time can help restore their firmness.

Customizing Your Bars

Feel free to get creative with the flavor profile! You can substitute the cocoa powder with carob powder for a caffeine-free option, or add a scoop of your favorite protein powder for an extra protein boost. Chopped dried fruits like cranberries or apricots can also be mixed in for added sweetness and chewiness, but be mindful of the overall sweetness level.

If you enjoy spices, adding a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract can elevate the flavor profile further. Experimenting with different nuts or interchangeable mix-ins like chia seeds or hemp hearts can yield delightful variations that keep your energy bars exciting and tailored to your taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ How long do these energy bars last?

They can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

→ Can I use other nuts?

Absolutely! Cashews or pecans would work wonderfully in this recipe.

→ Is it possible to make these vegan?

Yes, simply use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan-friendly option.

→ Can I freeze these energy bars?

Yes, they freeze well! Just wrap them individually and store them in a freezer-safe container.