Chocolate Hazelnut Coconut Bars

Name: Chocolate Hazelnut Coconut Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 1 cup hazelnuts, toasted; 1 cup shredded coconut, unsweetened; 1 cup pitted dates; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1/4 cup maple syrup; 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; A pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Oven Collection

I absolutely adore making these Chocolate Hazelnut Coconut Bars, especially when I want to treat myself or impress guests. The combination of rich chocolate, creamy hazelnuts, and the subtle sweetness of coconut makes these bars irresistible. Each bite is a little piece of heaven! I've taken the classic flavors and turned them into a quick, no-bake treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Let me show you how easy it is to whip up these delicious bars that are sure to be a hit!

Created by

Zinnia Fairweather

Last updated on 2026-01-14T05:38:35.576Z

My journey with these Chocolate Hazelnut Coconut Bars began on a whim while trying to find a unique dessert for a friend’s gathering. I knew I wanted something chocolatey but also a bit different, and the idea of combining hazelnuts and coconut was born. It’s amazing how quickly they come together, requiring no baking at all, which makes it the perfect choice for those who are short on time.

One tip I’ve discovered is to toast the hazelnuts briefly; this elevates their flavor and adds a delightful crunch that complements the smooth chocolate beautifully. Trust me, don’t skip that step! These bars have become a staple in my home, and I love sharing the joy they bring to everyone.

        Why You Will Love These Bars
        Decadent chocolate flavor balanced with nutty hazelnuts
Chewy texture from coconut adds a satisfying bite
Simple no-bake preparation makes them easy to whip up

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in these Chocolate Hazelnut Coconut Bars plays a crucial role in the overall flavor and texture. The toasted hazelnuts not only provide a rich, nutty essence but also contribute to a satisfying crunch. By toasting them, you enhance their natural oils and intensify their flavor. Opt for raw hazelnuts if you prefer a milder taste, but toasting is highly recommended for maximum enjoyment.

Unsweetened shredded coconut adds chewiness and depth to each bite, balancing the sweetness of the dates and maple syrup. Choosing unsweetened coconut allows you to control the sugar content while still enjoying that tropical flavor. If you don’t have shredded coconut, tried finely shredded or flaked coconut can also work, but ensure it’s unsweetened to maintain the intended flavor profile.

Perfecting the Texture

The key to achieving the perfect texture in these bars lies in the processing technique. When pulsing the mixture in the food processor, make sure to monitor closely. You want a consistency that holds together when pressed, but be cautious not to over-process it into a paste. A good rule of thumb is to stop when the mixture resembles a coarse meal but can still easily clump together. This texture is what gives the bars their chewiness and bite.

If your mixture isn't sticking together well, it could be because your dates are too dry. You can fix this by soaking them in warm water for about 10-15 minutes before blending. Additionally, if your bars seem too crumbly after chilling, try adding a touch more melted coconut oil or maple syrup, which can help bind them more effectively.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients:

Ingredients for Chocolate Hazelnut Coconut Bars

1 cup hazelnuts, toasted
1 cup shredded coconut, unsweetened
1 cup pitted dates
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1/4 cup maple syrup
1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of salt

These ingredients will create the perfect treat!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Chocolate Hazelnut Coconut Bars:

Blend the Base

In a food processor, combine the toasted hazelnuts, shredded coconut, and pitted dates. Pulse until mixture resembles a coarse meal.

Add Flavors

Add cocoa powder, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Process until the mixture is smooth and sticks together when pressed.

Shape the Bars

Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper. Press the mixture firmly into the pan, making sure it's evenly spread.

Chill and Cut

Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours until set. Once firm, remove from the pan and cut into squares or bars.

Enjoy your delicious homemade bars!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in some mini chocolate chips or sprinkling extra shredded coconut on top before chilling.

Make-Ahead and Storage

These Chocolate Hazelnut Coconut Bars are perfect for meal prep, as they can be made in advance and stored for several days. Once cut into squares, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they can last for up to a week. Alternatively, if you want to keep them for longer, you can freeze them. Simply layer pieces with parchment paper in a freezer-safe container, and they can last up to three months.

When ready to enjoy from the freezer, simply let them sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes, or heat them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to slightly soften. This makes them an excellent option for a quick and nutritious snack on busy days.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These bars can be enjoyed on their own, but they also lend themselves to creative serving ideas. Try drizzling melted dark chocolate on top for an extra layer of indulgence or sprinkling coarse sea salt before chilling to elevate the flavor contrast. If you want to customize them further, you can mix in other ingredients like dried cranberries or sunflower seeds when processing, adding different textures and tastes.

For a twist, consider swapping out the hazelnuts for your favorite nut or seed, such as walnuts or almond flour. Just keep in mind that each nut has a distinct flavor that can alter the overall taste of the bars. Additionally, using organic cocoa powder can provide a richer chocolate flavor, enhancing the overall indulgence of these no-bake treats.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute hazelnuts with another nut?

Yes, you can use almonds or cashews as alternatives, but adjust the roasting time accordingly.

→ How long can I store these bars?

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

→ Can I freeze these bars?

Absolutely! These bars freeze well; just wrap them in parchment paper and then in plastic wrap.

→ What can I use instead of maple syrup?

Agave nectar or honey can be used as alternatives for sweetness.