Chocolate Coconut Fudge Snack Squares

Name: Chocolate Coconut Fudge Snack Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup pitted dates; 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1/4 cup almond butter; 1/4 cup maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt; Extra shredded coconut for topping

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Favorites

I absolutely adore these Chocolate Coconut Fudge Snack Squares! They are the perfect blend of rich, velvety chocolate and the tropical essence of coconut, creating a beautiful harmony of flavors that I can't resist. Whenever I serve these delightful squares at gatherings, they always disappear within minutes. They're incredibly simple to make, requiring no baking, which makes them a go-to treat for those busy afternoons. Trust me, once you try these, they'll become a staple in your dessert rotation!

Created by

Lauren Mitchell

Last updated on 2026-01-21T17:49:04.815Z

When I first created these Chocolate Coconut Fudge Snack Squares, I wanted something that was both satisfying and easy to prepare. I remember experimenting with various ratios of chocolate and coconut until I found the sweet spot that offered a fudgy consistency with just the right amount of chewiness. After serving them at a family gathering, I was thrilled to see everyone enjoying them!

One tip I learned during my trials is to use full-fat coconut milk, as it helps create a creamier texture that complements the rich chocolate beautifully. This recipe has become a favorite among my friends and family, and I can't wait for you to experience the joy it brings!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Decadent chocolate flavor enriched with chewy coconut
Quick and easy no-bake preparation
Perfectly sweet and satisfying for a snack or dessert

The Role of Ingredients

Each ingredient in these Chocolate Coconut Fudge Snack Squares plays a significant role in achieving the perfect taste and texture. The pitted dates provide natural sweetness and a chewy texture that binds the mixture together. If you're in a pinch and don't have dates, you can substitute them with dried figs or prunes, but be aware that this may slightly alter the flavor profile.

Cocoa powder is crucial not just for flavor but also for creating the rich, dark color of these squares. Opt for high-quality unsweetened cocoa to maximize the chocolatey depth. If you'd like a lighter chocolate flavor, you could use carob powder as a substitution, but it will change the overall taste considerably.

Techniques for Success

When blending the mixture, be sure to pulse until it reaches a sticky dough consistency. If you find the mixture is too dry, add a teaspoon of water or extra maple syrup to achieve the right texture. If it's too wet, incorporate a bit more cocoa powder or shredded coconut, but do so gradually to avoid altering the balance too much.

Pressing the mixture firmly into the baking dish is essential for achieving a compact, bite-sized square. Use the flat bottom of a measuring cup or your hands to make sure it's evenly distributed and packed tight. This prevents the squares from crumbling when you cut them after chilling.

Tips for Serving and Storing

Once your squares are cut, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer shelf life, consider freezing them. Layer parchment paper between layers of squares to prevent sticking, and place the container in the freezer. They can be enjoyed straight from the freezer, making a refreshing snack on warm days.

These fudge squares are versatile and can be adapted to your taste. Feel free to add extras like chopped nuts, seeds, or dried fruit into the mixture before pressing it into the dish. For a minty twist, add a few drops of peppermint extract in place of vanilla. Experimenting can lead to delicious new variations every time you make them!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delightful snack squares:

Ingredients

1 cup pitted dates
1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1/4 cup almond butter
1/4 cup maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Extra shredded coconut for topping

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Chocolate Coconut Fudge Snack Squares:

Blend the Base

In a food processor, combine the pitted dates, shredded coconut, cocoa powder, almond butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Pulse until the mixture is well combined and forms a sticky dough.

Shape the Mixture

Transfer the mixture to a lined 8x8 inch baking dish, pressing it down firmly into an even layer. Use a spatula or your hands to ensure it's compact.

Chill and Cut

Refrigerate for about 30 minutes to firm up. Once set, remove from the dish and cut into squares. Optionally, roll the squares in extra shredded coconut for a lovely finish.

Enjoy!

Serve these delightful squares chilled or at room temperature. They make for a delicious snack or dessert any time of the day!

Pro Tips

For a nut-free version, substitute almond butter with sunflower seed butter. If you prefer a sweeter treat, add a bit more maple syrup to taste.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

To extend the freshness of your Chocolate Coconut Fudge Snack Squares, proper storage is key. They can be kept in the refrigerator for about a week in a well-sealed container. Additionally, they freeze exceptionally well; simply place them in a freezer-safe container, separated by parchment paper to avoid sticking together. When you're ready to enjoy, just grab a square and let it thaw for a few minutes at room temperature.

If you're planning to serve these squares at a gathering, consider preparing them a day or two in advance. This not only saves time on the day of the event but allows the flavors to meld and develop even further. You can also dust them with additional shredded coconut or even chop some nuts for added texture just before serving.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that the mixture isn't holding together properly after blending, this typically means it’s too dry. Don’t hesitate to add a tablespoon of water or additional maple syrup. Start with a little, blend, and check the consistency before making any more adjustments. The desired result is a sticky dough that can be pressed firmly into a baking dish without crumbling.

Alternatively, if the mixture feels overly sticky and hard to manage, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes. This will firm it up and make it easier to work with. You can also slightly increase the amount of cocoa powder or dried coconut in the mixture to create a drier texture if necessary.

Delicious Variations

There’s plenty of room for creativity with this recipe. Want a bit of crunch? Add a handful of chopped almonds or walnuts into the mixture before pressing it into the baking dish. You can also replace almond butter with peanut butter for a completely different flavor profile or even use sunflower seed butter for an allergen-friendly alternative.

For a fun tropical twist, mix in some crushed pineapple or even some chopped dried mango into the mixture. These fruits will add a layer of flavor and enhance the coconut experience. Similarly, sprinkling a bit of sea salt on top before serving adds a lovely contrast to the sweetness and highlights the chocolatey goodness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different nut butter?

Yes, feel free to substitute almond butter with peanut butter or any other nut/seed butter of your choice.

→ How long do these squares last?

They can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze them?

Absolutely! They freeze well for up to 3 months and make for a convenient snack anytime.

→ Is there a substitute for dates?

You could try using dried figs or apricots, but the texture and flavor may vary slightly.