Chocolate Almond Date Snack Squares

Name: Chocolate Almond Date Snack Squares
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup pitted dates; 1 cup raw almonds; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/4 cup almond butter; 1/4 cup shredded coconut; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; A pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Balanced Collection

I love whipping up these Chocolate Almond Date Snack Squares because they offer the ideal balance of sweetness and nutrition. Made with wholesome ingredients, they satisfy my chocolate cravings without compromising my health goals. Every bite is like a little piece of heaven that I can enjoy guilt-free. Plus, they’re perfect for on-the-go snacking or as a post-workout treat. Trust me, once you make them, you’ll find yourself making them time and time again!

Created by

Helena Whitby

Last updated on 2026-01-15T20:57:36.594Z

When I first created these Chocolate Almond Date Snack Squares, I wanted something that would not only satisfy my sweet tooth but also provide lasting energy. The combination of dates and almonds offers a perfect blend of natural sweetness and healthy fats, making them a great snack for any time of day. I experimented with different nuts and seeds, but almonds add a wonderful crunch that truly makes these squares stand out.

One tip I found essential is to make sure the dates are sticky enough to bind the ingredients together. If they’re too dry, a splash of almond milk or a bit of coconut oil can help achieve that ideal consistency. These squares are incredibly versatile; you can add your favorite spices or superfoods to customize them even further!

        Why You'll Love These Squares
        Decadent chocolate flavor without the guilt
Natural sweetness from dates, perfect for energy
Quick and effortless preparation in just minutes

      

Perfecting Your Dough Consistency

Achieving the right dough consistency is crucial for these snack squares. When blending, make sure the mixture comes together as a sticky dough that holds its shape when pressed. If it feels too dry and crumbly, try adding a splash of water or a little more almond butter to help it bind. Conversely, if it’s too wet, add a few more almonds or cocoa powder to thicken it up. Finding that perfect texture is key to ensuring every bite is dense and flavorful.

After blending, it's important to let the processor run long enough to fully incorporate the ingredients. This usually takes about 30-45 seconds on high speed, depending on your food processor. Watch for the mixture to start clumping together—that's your signal to stop. Over-blending can lead to a greasy mixture that won't set properly, so keep an eye on it for that ideal sticky consistency.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Chocolate Almond Date Snack Squares are not just quick to make; they’re also easy to store! To keep them fresh, wrap the squares individually in parchment paper or place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, or you can freeze them for longer shelf life. If freezing, ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. Just pop one out whenever you need a quick energy boost!

These squares are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to whip up a batch ahead of time. Try making a double or triple batch on the weekend so you always have a healthy snack on hand throughout the week. They’re particularly great as a post-workout recovery treat due to their combination of protein and natural sugars, providing the necessary energy and nutrients for muscle recovery.

Ingredients

Make sure to use fresh, soft dates for the best binding and sweetness.
If you prefer a nut-free version, substitute almonds with sunflower seeds.

Main Ingredients

1 cup pitted dates
1 cup raw almonds
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup almond butter
1/4 cup shredded coconut
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of salt

Chill the squares for at least an hour to set before cutting.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Instructions

These quick steps will guide you to perfect Chocolate Almond Date Snack Squares!

Blend Ingredients

In a food processor, combine the pitted dates, raw almonds, cocoa powder, almond butter, shredded coconut, vanilla extract, and salt. Blend until you achieve a sticky dough consistency.

Form the Squares

Transfer the mixture into a lined square baking dish. Press it down evenly with your hands or a spatula to create a solid layer.

Chill and Cut

Refrigerate the mixture for at least 1 hour to firm up. Once set, remove from the dish and cut into small squares.

Enjoy these squares as a healthy snack or dessert!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment by adding other ingredients like chia seeds, chopped dried fruit, or even a pinch of cinnamon for extra flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking for alternatives to raw almonds, feel free to swap them with other nuts like walnuts or cashews. Each of these nuts offers a different flavor profile and texture, keeping the recipe versatile. Just make sure the nuts you choose are raw and unsalted to maintain the balance of flavors in the squares.

For those avoiding nuts altogether, you can use seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds, which provide a similar crunch and nutritional benefits. Additionally, for a nut-free butter option, consider using seed butter or coconut butter in place of almond butter. These substitutions will still yield a deliciously decadent treat.

Customizing Your Squares

Get creative with the additions! Consider mixing in a handful of chia seeds or flaxseeds for an extra boost of omega-3 fatty acids. You can also stir in some dark chocolate chips or chopped dried fruits for added sweetness and texture. Just ensure these mix-ins are evenly distributed throughout the dough to avoid clumping.

If you prefer a different flavor profile, experiment with additional spices like cinnamon or a hint of sea salt for a contrast to the sweetness of the dates. Remember that these flavor tweaks can alter the final taste, so start with small amounts and adjust to your liking for a personalized snack square experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other nuts instead of almonds?

Yes, you can substitute almonds with any nut of your choice, or even go nut-free with seeds.

→ How should I store these squares?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these squares?

Absolutely! They freeze well. Just make sure to separate them with parchment paper.

→ How do I make them sweeter?

You can add a bit of maple syrup or honey to the mix if you prefer a sweeter taste.