Chocolate Almond Coconut Energy Bars

Name: Chocolate Almond Coconut Energy Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 1 cup rolled oats; 1/2 cup almond butter; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/2 cup shredded coconut; 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/4 cup chopped almonds; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 tsp salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love these Chocolate Almond Coconut Energy Bars! They are my go-to snack when I need a quick energy boost during the day. The combination of rich chocolate, crunchy almonds, and chewy coconut creates a delightful treat that satisfies my sweet cravings while providing a healthy option. These bars are not only easy to make but also require minimal ingredients, making them perfect for busy schedules. I often prepare a batch on the weekend, and they keep well in the fridge for an on-the-go snack throughout the week.

Created by

Talia Preston

Last updated on 2026-01-18T02:49:07.314Z

When I first experimented with these Chocolate Almond Coconut Energy Bars, I was amazed by how quickly they came together. I combined my favorite pantry staples, and within minutes, I had a delicious and nutritious snack. What surprised me was how the flavors melded together, creating a delectable treat that kept me satisfied between meals.

To enhance the texture, I suggest chopping the almonds coarsely. This not only adds a satisfying crunch but also creates a wonderful contrast with the chewy coconut. These bars have become a staple in my kitchen, and I love sharing them with friends and family!

        Why You'll Love These Bars
        Rich chocolate flavor balanced with nutty almonds
Chewy coconut adds a delightful texture
Perfect for a quick energy-boosting snack

      

The Role of Each Ingredient

Understanding the role of each ingredient in these Chocolate Almond Coconut Energy Bars enhances their flavor and texture. The rolled oats serve as the foundation, providing a chewy texture while offering fiber for sustained energy. Almond butter acts not only as a binding agent but also contributes healthy fats and a creamy richness that balances the sweetness from honey or maple syrup. The shredded coconut adds chewiness and a tropical flair, making these bars feel like a decadent treat.

Dark chocolate chips are the star flavor-wise, adding richness and depth to the energy bars. Aim for at least 70% cocoa for the best balance between sweetness and richness. If you need a dairy-free option, look for vegan chocolate chips to ensure everyone can enjoy these bars. Chopped almonds increase the crunch factor, creating a satisfying bite that contrasts with the smooth almond butter and chewy coconut. Make sure to chop the almonds finely for even distribution throughout the bars.

Tips for Perfect Energy Bars

To achieve the best texture, ensure that the mixture is thoroughly combined before pressing it into the pan. If you find the almond butter is too thick or hard to mix, gently warm it for 10-15 seconds in the microwave. This will help it blend more easily with the other ingredients, resulting in a uniform consistency. Don't skip the cooling step in the fridge; this prevents the bars from being too soft and makes cutting them into shapes much easier.

When pressing the mixture into the pan, take care to really pack it down tightly. This helps the bars hold together better and prevents them from crumbling when cut. A flat spatula works well for smoothing the surface, ensuring an even thickness. Allow the bars to chill for at least one hour, but if you can manage it, chilling them longer will result in firmer bars that hold their shape during storage and packing.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start:

Main Ingredients

1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup almond butter
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/2 cup shredded coconut
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
1/4 cup chopped almonds
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 tsp salt

Mix these ingredients together to create your energy bars!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your energy bars:

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the rolled oats, almond butter, honey or maple syrup, shredded coconut, dark chocolate chips, chopped almonds, vanilla extract, and salt until fully combined.

Press into Pan

Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper. Pour the mixture into the pan and press it down firmly with your hands or a spatula to create an even layer.

Chill and Cut

Refrigerate the pan for at least 1 hour until the mixture is firm. Once set, lift the bars out using the parchment paper and cut them into squares or rectangles.

Your energy bars are ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. These bars are versatile, so feel free to add other ingredients like dried fruits or seeds for extra nutrition.

Storing Your Energy Bars

These Chocolate Almond Coconut Energy Bars can be easily stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, consider wrapping each bar individually in parchment paper and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months, making them a convenient on-the-go snack. When ready to eat, simply thaw them in the fridge or at room temperature for a few minutes.

To prevent flavor interference, be sure to store your bars away from strong-smelling foods in the fridge. If you’re freezing them, use the oldest bars first to enjoy their freshness. I love taking a couple of these out before my workouts; they defrost quickly and provide the perfect energy boost!

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to customize these energy bars to suit your taste or dietary needs. For a nut-free version, swap the almond butter for sunflower seed butter, and adjust any nut-based toppings to seeds or raisins. You can also experiment with different mix-ins such as dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for an added burst of flavor and natural sweetness.

For a protein increase, consider adding a scoop of your favorite protein powder to the mix before combining. This not only enhances the nutritional profile but can also change the texture slightly, yielding a denser bar. If you prefer a sweeter treat, you can increase the honey or maple syrup by a couple of tablespoons, but be cautious, as this may affect the binding properties of the bars.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different nut butter?

Yes, you can swap almond butter for peanut butter or sunbutter if you prefer.

→ How do I store the energy bars?

Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze them for longer storage.

→ Can I add protein powder to the recipe?

Absolutely! You can mix in a scoop of your favorite protein powder for an extra protein boost.

→ Are these bars vegan?

Yes, if you use maple syrup instead of honey, these bars are completely vegan!