Chocolate Hazelnut Energy Snack Squares

Name: Chocolate Hazelnut Energy Snack Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 12 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup hazelnuts, toasted; 1 cup Medjool dates, pitted; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; A pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Wellness Recipes

I love creating quick snacks that fuel my day, and these Chocolate Hazelnut Energy Snack Squares have become my go-to! These delicious bars are packed with nutrients from nuts and dates, making them perfect for an energy boost any time. Plus, the rich chocolate flavor mixed with the earthy undertones of hazelnuts is simply irresistible. I enjoy making a batch over the weekend to keep on hand throughout the week, ensuring I have a satisfying and healthy treat ready whenever I need it.

Created by

Juniper Hale

Last updated on 2026-01-19T23:17:34.487Z

When I first stumbled upon this recipe, I was searching for a healthy but satisfying snack to curb my afternoon cravings. The combination of chocolate and hazelnuts immediately caught my eye, and I knew I had to give it a try. The way the sweet dates naturally bind the ingredients together is truly magical, making these bars not only delicious but also nutritious.

With just a food processor and a few minutes, I was able to whip up a batch that lasted my family days! I love that I can customize the sweetness by adjusting the amount of honey or maple syrup I add. It’s a simple treat, but one that gives me a great sense of accomplishment when I share it with friends!

        Why You'll Love These Squares
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy hazelnuts
Nutrient-dense ingredients that keep you energized
No baking required makes them super easy to prepare
Perfect for meal prep or a quick on-the-go snack

      

Understanding Your Ingredients

The primary ingredients in these Chocolate Hazelnut Energy Snack Squares serve specific roles that contribute to their flavor and texture. For instance, Medjool dates not only add natural sweetness but also help bind the mixture together due to their sticky nature. This binding quality is essential for achieving a firm yet chewy texture that holds up when cut into squares. Choose soft, plump dates to ensure the best results; if they seem dry, soak them in warm water for about 10 minutes before processing.

Hazelnuts provide that distinctive nutty flavor as well as crunchy texture, balancing the creamy richness of the dates and cocoa. Toasting the hazelnuts is a crucial step, as it enhances their natural oils and intensifies the flavor, resulting in a more aromatic and delicious finished product. To toast, simply spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, until fragrant and lightly golden. Be sure to let them cool before incorporating them into the recipe.

Perfecting the Texture

Achieving the right texture is key to these snack squares. The goal is a dense yet manageable mixture that holds shape but isn’t overly tough. When processing the ingredients, be careful not to over-blend them; you want a crumbly texture that can easily be pressed together. If your mixture feels too dry and crumbly, you can add a bit more honey or a splash of water, one teaspoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too sticky, just a sprinkle of cocoa powder can help balance it.

After pressing the mixture into the baking dish, ensuring it’s densely packed will also contribute to a firmer end product. Pay special attention to smoothing the surface—this not only improves the appeal of the squares when cut, but it can also help them hold together better. I find that using the back of a spatula works best for this, and don’t hesitate to apply a bit of pressure to compact the mixture well.

Ingredients

For the Squares

1 cup hazelnuts, toasted
1 cup Medjool dates, pitted
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of salt

Optional: Sea salt for sprinkling on top.

Instructions

Prepare the Base

In a food processor, combine the toasted hazelnuts and pulse until coarsely chopped. Add the Medjool dates, cocoa powder, honey, vanilla extract, and salt. Process until the mixture forms a thick, sticky dough.

Form the Squares

Line an 8x8 inch square baking dish with parchment paper. Press the mixture firmly into the dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Use a spatula to smooth the surface.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set. Once firm, lift out using the parchment paper, cut into squares, and enjoy!

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

Pro Tips

Feel free to mix in some dark chocolate chips or dried fruits for added flavor and texture!

Storage Tips

These Chocolate Hazelnut Energy Snack Squares can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about a week. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. Cut the squares and layer them between parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. They can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply take out what you need and let them thaw for about 15-20 minutes at room temperature.

To keep the bars fresh, always make sure the container is tightly sealed to prevent moisture from affecting their texture. If possible, vacuum-sealing is an excellent option for long-term storage, as this helps maintain both the integrity and taste of the squares.

Variations You Can Try

Feel free to play around with the recipe to suit your taste preferences. For a fruity twist, you can add dried fruits such as cranberries or apricots—just chop them finely so they blend well. If you enjoy a touch of spice, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of sea salt to enhance the chocolate and hazelnut flavors, giving the squares a warm, comforting vibe.

If you'd like to make these squares vegan, you can easily substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. Additionally, you could experiment with different nut butters, like almond or cashew, to add a creamy element to the mixture while changing the flavor profile. Remember to adjust the other wet ingredients accordingly if you alter the consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different nuts?

Absolutely! Almonds or walnuts work well as substitutes.

→ How can I make these squares vegan?

Use maple syrup instead of honey for a completely vegan-friendly option.

→ What can I use instead of a food processor?

You can chop the nuts finely by hand and mix all ingredients in a bowl, though it will be more labor-intensive.

→ Can I freeze these snack squares?

Yes! They freeze well, so you can prepare a larger batch and keep them on hand for months.