Chocolate Coconut Snack Bars

Name: Chocolate Coconut Snack Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 1 cup pitted dates; 1 cup rolled oats; 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut; 1/2 cup almond butter; 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Everyday Baking Recipes

I love making Chocolate Coconut Snack Bars because they are the perfect blend of sweet and crunchy. Whenever I'm craving something indulgent yet healthy, I whip up a batch of these bars. The combination of dark chocolate and toasted coconut creates a flavor explosion that's hard to resist! Plus, they’re easy to make and require minimal ingredients, making them a go-to snack in my home. I often customize them with nuts or dried fruit to suit my taste, and they always hit the spot.

Created by

Abigail Moore

Last updated on 2026-01-13T01:57:34.962Z

When I first tried making these Chocolate Coconut Snack Bars, I felt like I was back in my childhood kitchen, where I would experiment with flavors. The idea hit me one rainy afternoon, and I couldn’t be happier with the result! The creamy chocolate and toasted coconut blend beautifully together and create a nostalgic taste that transports me back.

One tip I've discovered is to use high-quality dark chocolate for a richer flavor. It makes a significant difference, and it pairs wonderfully with the coconut. You can also sprinkle a bit of sea salt on top for a delightful contrast that enhances every bite.

Why You'll Love These Bars
Decadent combination of chocolate and coconut
Nutritious and energy-boosting snack
No-bake and quick to prepare

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to achieving the perfect texture in these Chocolate Coconut Snack Bars lies in your choice of dates. Pitted Medjool dates are ideal for this recipe due to their rich, caramel-like sweetness and sticky consistency, which helps bind the other ingredients together. If you're using drier dates, consider soaking them in warm water for about 10 minutes to soften them before processing, ensuring a smooth and cohesive mixture.

Using rolled oats adds a hearty chew to the bars, contributing to their satisfying crunch. If you prefer a gluten-free option, make sure to select certified gluten-free oats. For those looking for variety, quick oats can work as well but may lead to a softer texture. The unsweetened shredded coconut not only enhances flavor, but also provides a natural sweetness, balancing the rich dark chocolate.

Chilling and Texture Tips

Chilling the mixture is crucial for achieving the right firmness in your snack bars. Aim to refrigerate them for at least 20 to 30 minutes. This duration allows the bars to set properly, making them easier to cut into uniform pieces. If you find them too soft after chilling, press them back into the dish and refrigerate for another 10 minutes to firm up. This small step can make a big difference in how well the bars hold together.

When cutting the bars, using a sharp knife is essential to create clean edges. I like to dip the knife in warm water to prevent sticking, which can happen if the mixture is too gooey. Additionally, consider wrapping the individual bars in parchment paper once cut; this not only keeps them fresh but also makes for easy grab-and-go snacks.

Ingredients

For the Bars

1 cup pitted dates
1 cup rolled oats
1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
1/2 cup almond butter
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

Note

Instructions

Prepare the Base

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

Add the Chocolate

Gently fold in the dark chocolate chips until evenly distributed within the mixture.

Form the Bars

Press the mixture into a lined 9x9 inch baking dish, ensuring it’s compact and evenly spread.

Chill and Cut

Refrigerate for at least 20 minutes until set. Once firm, remove from the dish and cut into bars.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added texture, feel free to include some chopped nuts or seeds into the mixture. You can also substitute the almond butter with peanut or cashew butter if you prefer those flavors.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Chocolate Coconut Snack Bars can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week when kept in the refrigerator, making them a convenient option for meal prep. Alternatively, you can freeze the bars for longer storage—just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They should keep well for up to three months, allowing you to enjoy a healthy snack without the need to make them from scratch every time a craving hits.

For a fresh taste after freezing, I recommend letting the bars thaw in the refrigerator overnight, or simply enjoying them straight from the freezer for a frosty treat. If you prefer them warm, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds. Just be cautious not to overheat, as this can melt the chocolate chips and alter the texture.

Variations and Customizations

One of the great aspects of these snack bars is their versatility. You can easily customize them to suit your flavor preferences. For a nutty twist, try adding 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the mixture when blending. If you like a hint of spice, consider incorporating a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to elevate the flavor profile without overwhelming the chocolate and coconut.

Feel free to introduce dried fruits for added sweetness and texture; dried cranberries, apricots, or raisins work wonderfully. Just remember to chop them into smaller pieces to ensure they integrate well with the mixture. This flexibility allows you to keep the recipe exciting and tailor the snack bars to your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Questions About Recipes

→ How should I store these bars?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze them for up to three months.

→ Can I replace the dates with something else?

Yes, you can use dried figs or raisins, but dates provide a unique sweetness and moisture.

→ Are these bars suitable for vegan diets?

Absolutely! All ingredients used are plant-based, making them a perfect vegan snack.

→ Can I add other flavors to the bars?

Certainly! You can add a teaspoon of cinnamon or a splash of almond extract for additional flavor.