Chocolate Coconut Snack Bars

Name: Chocolate Coconut Snack Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut; 1 cup rolled oats; 1/2 cup almond butter; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/4 cup chopped nuts (e.g., almonds or walnuts); 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Baking Moments

I love making Chocolate Coconut Snack Bars because they combine the rich flavors of chocolate and coconut into a deliciously satisfying treat. This recipe is perfect for a quick snack or a sweet pick-me-up during the day. The best part? They are easy to prepare and can be stored for days, making them ideal for snacking anytime. You’ll love the way the chocolate melts in your mouth, paired with the chewy texture of coconut, creating a symphony of flavors that’s hard to resist!

Created by

Adeline Morris

Last updated on 2026-01-12T03:34:12.281Z

When I first made these Chocolate Coconut Snack Bars, I didn’t expect them to turn out as wonderfully as they did! The combination of crunchy nuts, sweet coconut, and rich dark chocolate creates a satisfying treat that’s also nutritious.

I discovered that using unsweetened shredded coconut adds a lovely texture and depth of flavor to the bars. It's all about balancing the sweetness in your recipe, and when combined with a touch of honey, this treat becomes an irresistible indulgence without being overly sugary!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with the crunchy texture of coconut
Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep
A satisfying snack that feels indulgent yet healthy

Understanding Your Ingredients

Each ingredient in these Chocolate Coconut Snack Bars plays a critical role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor balance. The unsweetened shredded coconut provides chewiness and a delightful nutty flavor, while the rolled oats contribute to the bar's structure. Almond butter not only binds the ingredients together but also adds a creamy richness that complements the dark chocolate wonderfully. You can easily swap almond butter for peanut butter or sunflower seed butter if you have nut allergies, ensuring everyone can enjoy these bars.

Using dark chocolate chips is key to getting that rich chocolate flavor. I recommend choosing chips that are at least 70% cocoa for a deeper, more intense taste. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, ensure your chocolate is labeled as such. Additionally, if you're not a fan of dark chocolate, you can substitute semi-sweet or even milk chocolate chips, though this will alter the overall flavor profile and sweetness of the bars.

Perfecting the Texture

When pressing the mixture into the baking dish, aim for an even, firm layer; this ensures that the bars will hold together well once cut. Use the back of a measuring cup or your hands to compact it, pressing down firmly but gently. If the mixture feels too dry or crumbly, you can add a touch more almond butter or honey to help with binding. After refrigerating, the bars should feel firm and cohesive but not rock-hard; if they seem too soft, pop them back in the fridge for a few more minutes.

After cutting the bars, they'll naturally begin to soften if left at room temperature; to maintain their chewy texture, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can also be individually wrapped and frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready for a snack, just allow a bar to thaw for a few minutes, and you'll still enjoy the great flavor and texture.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before you begin to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Ingredients

1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup almond butter
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
1/4 cup chopped nuts (e.g., almonds or walnuts)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
pinch of salt

Once you have everything ready, you can start preparing your bars!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Chocolate Coconut Snack Bars.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the shredded coconut, rolled oats, almond butter, honey, dark chocolate chips, chopped nuts, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until fully combined.

Press into Pan

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

Chill and Cut

Refrigerate the mixture for about 20 minutes, allowing it to set. Once firm, remove from the pan and cut into bars.

Enjoy your homemade Chocolate Coconut Snack Bars as a delightful snack or dessert!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a splash of espresso powder to the mixture to enhance the chocolate flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy these snack bars on their own, or pair them with a side of fresh fruit or yogurt for a more balanced snack. They make a great on-the-go breakfast option when you need something portable, or they can serve as an energizing pre-workout treat. You might also consider melting extra dark chocolate and drizzling it over the top for an added touch of indulgence.

For a fun twist, feel free to add other mix-ins such as dried fruits like cranberries or apricots, or even seeds like chia or flax for an extra nutritional boost. Each addition will bring a different texture and flavor which can enhance the overall experience of the bars.

Experimenting and Variations

These bars are incredibly versatile! You can customize them by replacing half the coconut with other ingredients like crushed graham crackers or other nuts. If you want to add a protein boost, consider mixing in protein powder; start with a couple of tablespoons, adjusting other wet ingredients as needed to avoid dryness.

Moreover, feel free to change up the sweetener; agave nectar or maple syrup can be substituted for honey if you're looking for a vegan option. Just keep in mind that these alternatives might slightly alter the texture and flavor, so make adjustments as necessary until you find your ideal combination.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute almond butter?

Yes, you can use peanut butter or sunflower seed butter if you prefer.

→ How should I store the bars?

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

→ Can I freeze these bars?

Absolutely! They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just wrap them well in plastic wrap.

→ What can I add for extra flavor?

Consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or even dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for a unique twist!