Chocolate Almond Butter Energy Squares

Name: Chocolate Almond Butter Energy Squares
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 12 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup almond butter; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1 cup rolled oats; 1/4 cup chocolate chips; 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; A pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I adore making snacks that are both nutritious and indulgent, and these Chocolate Almond Butter Energy Squares check all the boxes for me. Packed with rich chocolate and the creamy goodness of almond butter, they’re perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up or a post-workout treat. I love that they come together in just a few minutes and require no baking, making them a convenient choice for busy days. Plus, they’re easy to customize with your favorite mix-ins for an extra personal touch!

Created by

Clara Jennings

Last updated on 2026-01-18T02:31:11.814Z

When I first developed these Chocolate Almond Butter Energy Squares, I wanted to create a healthy yet satisfying snack that could keep me energized throughout the day. The combination of almond butter and cocoa makes a delightful treat that feels almost like dessert. In my trials, I discovered that using a bit of honey or maple syrup not only sweetens the bars but also helps them bind perfectly without any baking required.

One of my favorite things about these squares is that they are so versatile! I can easily swap out ingredients based on what I have on hand. If you don't have almond butter, peanut butter works wonderfully too, giving the squares a different flavor twist. I encourage trying out different nuts and seeds to suit your taste!

        Why You'll Love These Energy Squares
        Rich chocolate flavor with a nutty undertone
No baking required - just mix and chill!
Perfectly portable for snacks on-the-go

      

The Role of Almond Butter

Almond butter is the star of these energy squares, offering a deliciously creamy texture that balances the rich chocolate flavor. Besides enhancing taste, it contributes healthy fats, protein, and fiber, making these squares not only tasty but also satisfying. When selecting almond butter, opt for a natural version without added sugars or oils for the healthiest choice, which helps maintain a consistent texture in your mixture.

If you're nut-free or simply looking to switch things up, peanut butter or sunbutter can be excellent substitutes. Keep in mind that these alternatives may slightly alter the flavor profile; peanut butter will add a more pronounced nutty taste, while sunbutter introduces a unique sweetness. Just ensure the substitute has a similar consistency to almond butter for the best results.

Customization Tips

One of the best features of these energy squares is their versatility. Feel free to mix in your favorite ingredients to personalize them. Dried fruits such as cranberries, apricots, or raisins can add a chewy texture and a hint of natural sweetness. You could also experiment with seeds like chia or flaxseed for added nutrition, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon to enhance the flavor.

If you prefer a different type of chocolate, dark chocolate chips can elevate the richness, while white chocolate provides a sweet contrast. For a fun twist, consider adding a scoop of protein powder to increase the protein content, turning them into a post-workout powerhouse. Just remember to adjust the moisture if you add dry ingredients to maintain the right consistency.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These energy squares are perfect for meal prep, as they store well in the fridge. Once cut into squares, you can keep them in an airtight container for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them; wrap each square in parchment paper and place them in a zip-top bag. They will maintain their texture and flavor for up to three months. Just allow them to thaw in the fridge before serving.

When it comes to serving, these energy squares are perfect for on-the-go snacking, making them great for busy mornings or post-workout refuels. Pair them with a piece of fruit or yogurt for a more complete snack, or crumble them over oatmeal for an added chocolatey crunch. The convenience and flavor of these squares will make them a staple in your snack rotation.

Ingredients

Energy Squares

1 cup almond butter
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1 cup rolled oats
1/4 cup chocolate chips
1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of salt

Combine these ingredients for a rich, energizing treat.

Instructions

Directions

Mix Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine almond butter, honey or maple syrup, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.

Add Dry Ingredients

Gently fold in rolled oats, chocolate chips, chopped nuts, and pinch of salt until evenly mixed.

Form Squares

Line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Spread the mixture evenly in the dish, pressing it down firmly.

Chill

Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm. Once set, lift out and cut into squares.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize these squares with your favorite nuts or add-ins like dried fruits or seeds for extra flavor and nutrition.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your mixture seems too crumbly and doesn't hold together when pressed, it’s likely the almond butter or syrup wasn't sufficient. Try adding a little more almond butter or a teaspoon of water, mixing thoroughly until you reach the desired consistency. This will help the squares bind together better once chilled.

Conversely, if your mixture is too sticky, it's possible that you’ve added too much syrup. To remedy this, consider mixing in a bit more cocoa powder or oats until the texture becomes easier to handle, ensuring you get those perfect squares.

Scaling the Recipe

Considering an event or gathering? This recipe is easily scalable. Simply double or triple the ingredients while maintaining the same mixing process. For a larger batch, an 11x7-inch or even a 9x13-inch baking dish works well, just ensure to adjust the chilling time accordingly, as thicker squares may take a bit longer to set.

If scaling up, remember to increase your mix-ins proportionally to ensure flavor consistency. Whether it’s the chocolate chips or nuts, ensuring a harmonious balance in larger batches is key to keeping the delightful taste intact across more servings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use peanut butter instead of almond butter?

Yes, peanut butter works great and will give a different flavor.

→ How long do these energy squares last?

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

→ Can I add protein powder to the recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to adjust the wet ingredients slightly to compensate.

→ Are these gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free oats.