Chocolate Coconut Energy Bars

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

Highlighted under: Golden Bakes

I absolutely love making these Chocolate Coconut Energy Bars for a quick snack or a post-workout boost. They are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, with just a few ingredients and no baking required. Packed with wholesome ingredients like oats, coconut, and dark chocolate, they give me the energy I need throughout the day. Plus, they are perfect for meal prep, and I can store them in the fridge for a quick grab-and-go option. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be hooked!

Created by

Stella Cameron

Last updated on 2026-02-08T05:57:35.827Z

When I was experimenting in the kitchen, I started mixing ingredients that I loved and boom, these Chocolate Coconut Energy Bars were born! I realized that the blend of oats, shredded coconut, and rich chocolate not only tastes fantastic but also provides a great energy boost. I love how the texture is chewy yet satisfying, thanks to the coconut and nut butter.

One of my favorite tips is to let the mixture set in the fridge for at least an hour before cutting. This allows the bars to firm up and makes them easier to slice. Plus, they hold their shape so well. Every bite is simply heavenly!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor balanced with the nuttiness of coconut
No baking required - just mix, set, and enjoy!
Perfect for a quick snack or a post-workout treat

Ingredient Benefits

The star ingredients in these energy bars not only contribute to the delicious flavor but also pack a nutritious punch. Rolled oats provide a great source of whole grains, rich in fiber that promotes digestive health and helps keep you fuller for longer. When blended with almond butter, these bars become a wholesome energy source, perfect to fuel your day. The healthy fats in almond butter also give a creamy texture, making each bite satisfying and smooth.

Shredded coconut adds a delightful chewiness and brings about healthy fats and fiber, which can support heart health and help in maintaining energy levels. If you're looking for variations, unsweetened coconut is preferred to control sugar content while still imparting that tropical flavor. Dark chocolate chips not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also deliver antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation. These bars balance health and happiness beautifully, making them a guilt-free treat!

Prep and Storage Tips

When preparing this recipe, a large mixing bowl and a sturdy spatula work best to ensure all ingredients combine properly. If you find the mixture too sticky to work with, use a little water on your hands or the spatula to help press it down in the dish without making a mess. Remember to pack the mixture tightly to ensure the bars hold their shape when cut later. This step makes all the difference in achieving the perfect texture!

For storage, refrigerate the bars in an airtight container for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer shelf life; just make sure to layer parchment paper between bars to prevent sticking. To enjoy a frozen bar, simply let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before eating. This not only makes for a refreshing treat but ensures the chocolate melts slightly, giving you that fantastic contrasting texture of creamy and chewy.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Chocolate Coconut Energy Bars

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

Mix all ingredients well, ensuring everything is evenly distributed.

Instructions

Prepare the Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, shredded coconut, almond butter, honey, dark chocolate chips, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until fully combined.

Set the Bars

Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper. Press the mixture firmly into the dish, ensuring it’s even. Cover with plastic wrap.

Chill and Cut

Place in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to set. Once firm, remove from the dish and cut into bars.

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

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try mixing in some nuts or dried fruit. If you prefer a sweeter bar, increase the honey or maple syrup to taste.

Variations and Additions

Feel free to customize your energy bars by adding other ingredients that suit your taste. Chia seeds or flaxseeds can add an extra crunch and boost the nutritional profile with Omega-3 fatty acids. Dried fruits like cranberries or raisins could provide a hint of natural sweetness and additional chewiness; just keep the overall sweetness in mind if you do so. If you need a nut-free version, sunflower seed butter can replace almond butter without losing texture or flavor.

You can also experiment by adding spices like cinnamon or a pinch of sea salt for enhanced flavor depth. My personal favorite is a dash of cinnamon, which pairs perfectly with chocolate and coconut, making it taste even more decadent. Just be cautious with the amounts, as you want the primary flavors to shine through while still achieving a balanced taste.

Cutting and Serving Suggestions

Once your energy bars have chilled and set, the way you cut them can significantly affect the texture and presentation. Using a sharp knife to make straight, clean cuts will help maintain the bar shape and prevent them from crumbling. To avoid sticking, I recommend dipping the knife in hot water before making each cut—this makes for cleaner edges and a nicer presentation, especially if you’re serving them at a gathering.

These bars can be enjoyed on their own, or you could drizzle a bit of melted dark chocolate on top for a more indulgent treat. Pair them with a smoothie or a piece of fruit for a balanced snack. They're also great crumbled on top of yogurt or oatmeal for added texture and flavor. This versatility allows you to incorporate these energy bars into your daily routine without boredom.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute almond butter?

Yes, you can use peanut butter or any other nut or seed butter of your choice.

→ How long do these energy bars last?

When stored in an airtight container in the fridge, they can last for about one week.

→ Can I freeze these bars?

Absolutely! You can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just wrap them individually for easy access.

→ What can I add for extra nutrition?

You can add chia seeds, flaxseeds, or protein powder to boost the nutritional value.