Chocolate Hazelnut Energy Snack Squares

Name: Chocolate Hazelnut Energy Snack Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup rolled oats; 1/2 cup hazelnuts, toasted; 1/2 cup almond butter; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/4 teaspoon sea salt; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Clean Healthy Food Favorites

I absolutely adore these Chocolate Hazelnut Energy Snack Squares! Whenever I need a quick pick-me-up, these little squares are my go-to treat. They've got that rich chocolatey flavor that I crave, with the added crunch of hazelnuts that gives them a delightful texture. Plus, they're no-bake, which means I can whip them up in just a few minutes. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, I feel great about enjoying them anytime, whether as a snack or a post-workout treat.

Created by

Ottoline Reeves

Last updated on 2026-01-19T23:17:35.315Z

When I first experimented with these Chocolate Hazelnut Energy Snack Squares, I wasn't sure if I could capture the perfect balance of flavors. But after a couple of tries, I discovered that toasting the hazelnuts beforehand releases essential oils that amplify their nutty flavor. It’s a simple step that takes just a few minutes but makes a world of difference.

I also added a pinch of salt to enhance the sweetness of the chocolate, which created a delicious contrast. These squares are now a staple in my kitchen, and I love sharing them with friends and family for a quick snack or a boost of energy before hitting the gym!

        Why You Will Love These Squares
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy hazelnuts
Healthy, no-bake treat that’s quick to make
Perfect for on-the-go snacking or a post-workout boost

      

Getting the Right Texture

Achieving the perfect texture is essential for these energy snack squares. By using rolled oats, you ensure a hearty base that provides chewiness. If you prefer an even denser square, you can try using quick oats, but be wary that they may alter the final bite. Additionally, toasting the hazelnuts not only enhances their flavor with a delightful crunch but also adds a pleasing aroma, making the squares irresistibly delicious.

After combining the ingredients, the key is to ensure everything is mixed evenly. Do not rush this step! You’ll want to fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients patiently, so every oat and hazelnut are well coated. This ensures an even distribution of flavors and helps the squares hold together better when pressed into the dish.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These snack squares can be made ahead of time, which is perfect for busy weekdays. Once they are fully chilled and cut into squares, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will maintain their texture for up to a week. If you need a longer shelf life, consider freezing them. Just freeze the squares individually between layers of parchment paper, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be pulled out as needed and enjoyed straight from the freezer, perfect for when you need an instant energy boost.

When storing, it's important to ensure the container is sealed properly to avoid any potential moisture, which could make the squares overly soft. If you notice that they are beginning to stick together, simply layer more parchment paper between the squares before sealing, which will help maintain their integrity.

Ingredients

For the Snack Squares

1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup hazelnuts, toasted
1/2 cup almond butter
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Prepare a Baking Dish

Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, toasted hazelnuts, cocoa powder, and sea salt.

Blend Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix the almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract until well blended.

Combine and Mix

Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly coated.

Form the Squares

Press the mixture firmly into the prepared baking dish, ensuring it's evenly distributed.

Chill and Set

Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until set. Once firm, lift out using the parchment paper and cut into squares.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, feel free to mix in other nuts or dried fruits. These squares can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to swap out the almond butter due to allergies or preferences, sunflower seed butter makes an excellent alternative. It provides a similar creamy texture while being nut-free. Alternatively, you can experiment with peanut butter for a different flavor profile, but keep in mind it may affect the overall taste of the snack squares distinctively.

For a vegan option, simply use maple syrup instead of honey, as mentioned in the recipe. This substitution doesn't compromise the sweetness and ensures the recipe remains plant-based. If you want to cut down on sweetness for a more nutritious version, you can reduce the amount of sweetener by up to a tablespoon without affecting the texture significantly.

Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Hazelnut Energy Snack Squares are incredibly versatile in how you can serve them. They make a perfect pre-workout snack paired with a piece of fruit, like a banana or an apple, which adds freshness and complements the energy boost. You can also crumble the squares on top of your morning yogurt for a deliciously crunchy breakfast.

For those who enjoy a little flair, consider drizzling melted dark chocolate or a sprinkle of sea salt on top before serving. This not only elevates the visual appeal but also adds another layer of flavor that chocolate lovers will appreciate. When serving at gatherings, feel free to cut them into different sizes to cater to various preferences—bite-sized for a light snack or larger squares for a more substantial treat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different nut butter?

Yes, you can substitute almond butter with peanut butter or cashew butter if you prefer!

→ How long do these snack squares last?

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

→ Can I freeze these energy squares?

Absolutely! You can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them well.

→ What if I don't have hazelnuts?

No problem! You can use any other nuts like almonds or walnuts.