Chocolate Hazelnut Energy Squares

Name: Chocolate Hazelnut Energy Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 12 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup rolled oats; 1/2 cup almond butter or hazelnut butter; 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup cocoa powder; 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making Chocolate Hazelnut Energy Squares for a quick snack or a dessert that satisfies my cravings. These squares combine the rich flavors of chocolate and hazelnuts, creating a delightful treat that's both nutritious and delicious. I find them perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up or post-workout energy boost. Plus, they’re so easy to prepare and require no baking, which is a huge bonus. I can whip up a batch in just a few minutes, making them a convenient option for my busy days.

Created by

Abigail Foster

Last updated on 2026-01-18T04:07:11.195Z

When I first experimented with these Chocolate Hazelnut Energy Squares, I was blown away by how simple yet satisfying they were. The combination of oats, cocoa, and nut butter packs a nutritious punch, making these squares a fantastic choice for when I need a quick energy boost. I also love that I can customize the sweetness by altering the honey or maple syrup used.

One specific tip I discovered is to let the mixture chill for a bit longer than recommended. This extra time helps the squares firm up beautifully and makes them easier to cut without falling apart. Trust me; the wait is worth it for these delightful little bites!

        Why You'll Love These Squares
        Nutritious ingredients that provide sustained energy
Rich chocolate flavor with a hint of nutty goodness
No baking required, making them super easy to prepare

      

The Role of Each Ingredient

The rolled oats in these Energy Squares are not only a good source of dietary fiber, but they also provide a hearty texture that holds the squares together. The oats absorb moisture from the wet ingredients, ensuring the finished product is chewy rather than crumbly. Properly measuring the oats is crucial; too many can dry out the mix, while too few may cause it to fall apart. Stick to 1 cup for optimal results.

Nut butters such as almond or hazelnut provide essential fats and protein, which are key to making these squares a satisfying snack. If you prefer one over the other, substituting almond butter for hazelnut butter (or vice versa) won’t significantly affect the taste but can add a unique twist. Just be sure to use natural nut butter without added sugars or oils for the healthiest option.

Cocoa powder is another star here, providing the rich chocolate flavor while also conveying antioxidants. The key is to use a high-quality cocoa powder for a deeper flavor profile. Look for Dutch-processed cocoa for a smoother texture or raw cocoa for a more intense flavor. For a fun variation, experiment with adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg in small amounts to enhance the chocolate taste.

Techniques for Perfect Energy Squares

When mixing your ingredients, ensure you achieve a uniform consistency. I recommend using a spatula or your hands to combine everything fully. If the mixture seems too dry and crumbly, adding a bit more honey or nut butter can help bind it together. The mixture should be sticky but still hold its shape when pressed. Pay attention to this step to avoid dry squares that crumble when cut.

Pressing the mixture into the pan is another crucial technique. You want to use enough pressure to pack it tightly, which prevents the squares from falling apart when cut. I use the bottom of a measuring cup to create an even surface, ensuring that it’s smoothed out and compacted. If the mixture isn’t pressed down firmly enough, your squares may be more prone to crumbling.

Chilling the mixture is essential for achieving the right texture. By refrigerating for at least an hour, the fats solidify and help the squares hold their shape better. If you're short on time, you can place the pan in the freezer for about 20–30 minutes, but be sure not to freeze them for too long as they can become too hard.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup almond butter or hazelnut butter
1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup cocoa powder
1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Mix these ingredients for a tasty treat!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your energy squares:

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the rolled oats, almond or hazelnut butter, honey or maple syrup, cocoa powder, chopped hazelnuts, salt, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Press into Pan

Line an 8x8 inch square pan with parchment paper and press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the pan. Use a spatula to smooth it out.

Chill and Cut

Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until firm. Once set, remove from the pan and cut into squares.

Store and Enjoy

Store the squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Enjoy them as a snack or dessert!

Enjoy your homemade energy squares!

Pro Tips

Feel free to swap in different nut butters or add-ins like dried fruit or seeds to customize your squares. Just keep the measurements the same for the best results.

Storage Tips

To keep your Chocolate Hazelnut Energy Squares fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to a week, making them an ideal choice for meal prep or snack planning. If you find yourself with extras, consider wrapping individual squares in parchment paper and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer, allowing you to have a healthy snack ready whenever you need it.

If you're concerned about the squares getting too hard in the fridge, place a piece of bread in the container. This will help maintain moisture levels and keep your energy squares soft and chewy. Just remember to replace the bread every few days to prevent spoilage.

For customization, you might also experiment with additional mix-ins like chocolate chips, dried fruit, or seeds, which can elevate the flavors even further. Just be cautious with the quantity to avoid altering the texture or moisture balance.

Serving Suggestions

These energy squares are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Enjoy them on their own as a quick snack, or pair them with a piece of fresh fruit for a more balanced treat. They also make a great topping for yogurt or smoothie bowls, adding protein and healthy fats that complement fruits and granola beautifully.

Consider serving them at gatherings or as a grab-and-go option for busy mornings. Their compact size makes them easy to pack, and they can be enjoyed by all ages. If you’re in the mood for something a little sweeter, a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted dark chocolate over the top can make them feel more indulgent without straying from the healthy profile.

These squares can also be a fantastic base for a more elaborate dessert. Crumble them over ice cream or layer them with whipped cream and berries for a delicious parfait that feels indulgent yet guilt-free. The combination of flavors from the hazelnuts and chocolate pairs wonderfully with various toppings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different nut butter?

Absolutely! You can use any nut butter you prefer, like peanut, cashew, or even sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option.

→ How long do these squares last?

These energy squares can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.

→ Can I freeze these squares?

Yes, you can freeze the squares! Just wrap them individually and store in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.

→ Is there a substitute for oats?

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, you can try using gluten-free rolled oats or even ground nuts to replace the oats.