Chocolate Coconut Snack Bars

Name: Chocolate Coconut Snack Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 1 cup rolled oats; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/2 cup shredded coconut; 1/4 cup almond butter (or peanut butter); 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional); Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love creating snacks that not only satisfy my sweet tooth but also nourish my body. These Chocolate Coconut Snack Bars have become a favorite in my household. They are easy to prepare, combining rich cocoa with the sweetness of coconut, making each bite a delightful treat. I appreciate that they are no-bake, which means I can whip them up quickly without heating the kitchen. Perfect for a midday pick-me-up or a weekend treat, these bars are sure to please anyone looking for a healthier dessert option.

Created by

Rebecca Mills

Last updated on 2026-01-13T03:52:13.305Z

When I first made these Chocolate Coconut Snack Bars, I was amazed at how simple the recipe was. With just a handful of ingredients, I was able to create a deliciously satisfying treat. The combination of chocolate and coconut not only tastes incredible but also gives me a nice energy boost, especially during busy days. I loved watching friends enjoy them during a get-together; they would always come back for seconds!

One little secret I discovered was to let the bars chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before cutting. This simple tip helps them set perfectly, making them easier to slice and giving them a great texture. I often find myself doubling the recipe so I can enjoy them throughout the week!

        Why You'll Love These Bars
        Decadent chocolate flavor complemented by chewy coconut
Healthy ingredients that satisfy your cravings guilt-free
Perfect for on-the-go snacking or as a post-workout treat

      

Ingredient Insights

The key to achieving the perfect texture in these Chocolate Coconut Snack Bars lies in the combination of rolled oats and shredded coconut. The oats serve as the base, providing a chewy structure, while the coconut adds natural sweetness and a tropical flair. When combined, these ingredients not only contribute to the flavor but also offer a satisfying bite. Selecting unsweetened shredded coconut is crucial here, as it allows you to control the sweetness level of the bars and keeps them from becoming overly sugary.

Using almond butter gives a unique creaminess and nutty flavor to the bars, but feel free to substitute it with peanut butter or sunflower seed butter to cater to your taste or dietary needs. Just be aware that different nut butters can alter the flavor profile slightly, so choose one that you enjoy. Additionally, if you're looking for a nut-free option, sunflower seed butter works wonderfully without compromising texture or taste.

Step-by-Step Techniques

When mixing the dry ingredients, be sure to incorporate them thoroughly before adding the wet components. This ensures even distribution and a uniform texture throughout the bars. I find that using a large mixing bowl makes it easier to stir everything together without making a mess. If you notice your mixture is too crumbly, a splash of nut milk or water can help bring it together without affecting the overall flavor.

Pressing the mixture firmly into the lined baking pan is vital for achieving well-formed bars. It helps to pack the ingredients tightly, which will minimize crumbling after chilling. I recommend using the back of a measuring cup to evenly distribute the mixture across the pan. Remember to smooth the top to ensure an even cut later. Aim for a thickness of about half an inch to yield the best results.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These bars are best enjoyed chilled, and they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you prefer a firmer texture, consider placing them in the freezer for about 30 minutes before cutting. You can also double this recipe to make a larger batch; just use a 9x13 inch pan to accommodate the increased volume. This is a great way to ensure you always have a nutritious snack on hand, especially after a workout.

For a fun serving idea, try drizzling melted dark chocolate over the top before slicing them into bars. This adds an extra layer of indulgence and a pleasing visual appeal. You could also sprinkle sea salt or additional coconut on top before the chocolate sets for an impressive touch. These variations not only enhance the flavor but also customize the bars to your preferences.

Ingredients

You will need the following ingredients to make these delicious Chocolate Coconut Snack Bars:

Ingredients

1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
1/2 cup shredded coconut
1/4 cup almond butter (or peanut butter)
1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Pinch of salt

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Chocolate Coconut Snack Bars:

Mix Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, unsweetened cocoa powder, shredded coconut, and a pinch of salt. Stir until well combined.

Add Wet Ingredients

Add the honey (or maple syrup) and almond butter to the dry mixture. Mix everything together until the ingredients are well incorporated and form a sticky dough.

Incorporate Chocolate Chips

If desired, fold in the chocolate chips for an extra chocolatey treat.

Press Into Pan

Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper. Press the mixture firmly into the pan, spreading it evenly.

Chill and Cut

Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the bars to set. Once firm, remove from the pan, cut into squares, and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding chopped nuts or seeds to the mixture before pressing it into the pan.

Making Ahead and Freezing

These Chocolate Coconut Snack Bars are an excellent make-ahead option for busy weeks. You can prepare them in advance and store them in the fridge, ensuring you always have a quick snack on hand. If you're looking to freeze them, after cutting them into squares, layer parchment paper between each bar in an airtight container to prevent sticking. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months, allowing you to enjoy a delicious treat anytime you crave something sweet without the prep time.

To thaw, simply remove the desired number of bars from the freezer and leave them in the fridge for a few hours or overnight before enjoying. This process maintains their texture beautifully, and you'll find that they still taste fresh and flavorful even after freezing. Just ensure you consume them within a couple of weeks after thawing for the best quality.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you find your mixture is too crumbly and won't hold together, it may be helpful to add a little more almond butter or a tablespoon of nut milk to improve its cohesiveness. This can often occur if the oats are very dry or if they haven't been mixed well with the wet ingredients. Mixing thoroughly ensures the oats absorb enough moisture from the honey or maple syrup for proper binding. Alternatively, consider a longer chill time if you need them to set up a bit more firmly.

On the flip side, if your bars seem overly sticky after chilling, it could mean that they didn't set long enough in the refrigerator. Simply placing them back in for an additional hour or so can do the trick. In the future, you might experiment with different ratios of dry to wet ingredients—it’s all about finding your perfect balance based on personal preference and ingredient brand variations.

Flavor Variations

These snack bars can easily be customized to suit your taste or even dietary restrictions. For instance, adding nuts like almonds or pecans can introduce a delightful crunch while increasing the protein content. If you prefer a fruitier flavor, consider mixing in dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for a burst of sweetness. Just ensure that adjustments maintain the overall dry and wet balance of the recipe.

Another fun variation is to experiment with spices. Adding a half teaspoon of cinnamon or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper can elevate the flavor profile dramatically, bringing warmth or a hint of spice to the bars. This not only changes the taste but can introduce unique pairings that enhance the chocolate and coconut base, allowing you to enjoy these bars in a different light each time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different nut butter?

Yes, feel free to use any nut butter of your choice, such as cashew butter or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option.

→ How should I store the snack bars?

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

→ Can I add other ingredients?

Absolutely! You can add ingredients like dried fruits, chia seeds, or even spices like cinnamon for added flavor.

→ Are these bars vegan?

Yes, by using maple syrup and a plant-based nut butter, these bars can easily be made vegan.