Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Snack Squares

Name: Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Snack Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut; 1 cup almond flour; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1/3 cup maple syrup; 1/2 cup chopped pistachios; 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Fast Recipes

I love experimenting with flavors, and these Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Snack Squares are a perfect fusion of rich chocolate, nutty pistachios, and tropical coconut. The combination is not only delicious but also satisfies my sweet tooth without feeling too indulgent. These squares are quick to whip up and perfect for an afternoon snack or a healthy dessert. Plus, they store well in the fridge, making it easy to grab one whenever I need a little pick-me-up!

Created by

Greer Montgomery

Last updated on 2026-01-21T22:13:34.850Z

When I first came up with the idea for these squares, I wanted to create something that would combine my love for chocolate with a hint of exotic flavor. Experimenting with unsweetened cocoa powder and shredded coconut, I found the right balance to keep them healthy yet satisfying. The addition of chopped pistachios gives each bite a delightful crunch.

What I discovered during my trials is that chilling the mixture before cutting it into squares helps the flavors meld beautifully. Plus, if you let them sit overnight in the fridge, the squares become even more cohesive, making each square a perfect treat for any occasion!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor with a hint of coconut sweetness
Nutty crunch from the pistachios perfectly balances the texture
Wholesome ingredients make these squares a guilt-free treat

Understanding the Ingredients

The base of these Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Snack Squares is almond flour, which not only provides a gluten-free alternative but also contributes a subtle nuttiness that complements the pistachios and chocolate. Almond flour absorbs moisture well, giving the squares a tender yet firm texture. If you're looking for a nut-free option, you could substitute the almond flour with oat flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend, but keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different.

Unsweetened shredded coconut is essential for providing a chewy texture and tropical flavor. It’s important to use unsweetened variety, as sweetened coconut can make the squares overly sweet, masking the richness of the chocolate. If coconut isn't your favorite, finely chopped dried fruits or seeds could be swapped in to still provide a similar binding quality and chewiness.

Perfecting the Technique

When mixing the ingredients, aim for a sticky yet manageable dough-like consistency. If the mixture is too dry, add a tablespoon of maple syrup or coconut oil to help bind it together. Conversely, if it feels too wet, sprinkle in a little more almond flour until you achieve the right balance. The goal is to ensure it holds together well when pressed into the baking dish, so don't skip this step.

After you’ve shaped your mixture into squares, make sure to chill them for at least 10 minutes. This crucial step allows the coconut oil to solidify, ensuring that the squares hold their shape when cut. If you find the squares are a bit crumbly after cutting, you could've pressed them down a little more firmly before chilling. A light press with a flat spatula can help create a denser, more cohesive square.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before starting:

Ingredients

1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
1 cup almond flour
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1/3 cup maple syrup
1/2 cup chopped pistachios
1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Snack Squares:

Prepare the Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded coconut, almond flour, cocoa powder, maple syrup, chopped pistachios, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix well until everything is evenly coated and forms a sticky mixture.

Shape into Squares

Line a baking dish with parchment paper. Pour the mixture into the dish and press it down firmly to create an even layer. Use a flat spatula to level the top.

Chill and Cut

Refrigerate the squares for at least 10 minutes to firm up. Once set, lift them out of the dish using the parchment paper and cut into squares.

Enjoy your delicious and nutritious snack squares!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize these squares with your favorite nuts or seeds for added variety. You can also drizzle some melted dark chocolate over the top for an extra treat!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These snack squares can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, making them a convenient option for meal prep or quick snacks. To prevent them from sticking together, consider separating layers with parchment paper. If you want to keep them longer, they freeze beautifully. Just line them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, and you can pull out a square whenever you crave a treat.

If you prefer a softer texture, try letting the squares sit at room temperature for a few minutes after removing them from the fridge. They will slightly soften and enhance the chocolate's flavor profile. Just keep in mind that they won’t hold up as well in warmer temperatures, so it’s best to return them to the fridge if they start to become too soft.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Snack Squares are delicious on their own, but they also make a fantastic addition to a cheese board or as a topping for yogurt or smoothie bowls. Chop them into smaller bite-sized pieces for a fun party treat or a lunchbox snack. You could even drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top for an extra layer of flavor and a more decadent presentation.

For a fun twist, consider adding other mix-ins such as dried cranberries, pumpkin seeds, or sunflower seeds for additional flavors and textures. Each variation can bring a unique element to your snack squares, allowing you to tailor them according to your mood or season. Just make sure to keep the overall ratio of dry to wet ingredients balanced to ensure optimal texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute almond flour with another flour?

Yes, you can use oat flour or all-purpose flour, but the texture and flavor will vary.

→ How long can I store these squares?

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

→ Can I freeze these squares?

Absolutely! They freeze well for up to three months. Just make sure to layer them with parchment paper before freezing.

→ Is there a vegan alternative to maple syrup?

You can use agave nectar or brown rice syrup as an alternative sweetener.