Chocolate Almond Coconut Squares
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
I absolutely adore making Chocolate Almond Coconut Squares, especially when I’m in the mood for something indulgent yet simple. The combination of rich chocolate and nutty almond paired with the sweetness of coconut is heavenly. Each bite melts in your mouth, leaving a delightful taste that keeps you coming back for more. I love making these squares for gatherings—they are always a hit and the perfect treat for sharing. Plus, the recipe is straightforward, making it easy to whip up a batch whenever the craving hits!
Making these Chocolate Almond Coconut Squares has become a cherished tradition in my kitchen. The recipe came about when I wanted to combine my love for chocolate and the tropical sweetness of coconut. I found that toasting the almonds enhances their flavor, giving the squares an extra crunch. It’s a small but vital step that elevates the entire dessert!
One of my favorite tips is to let the squares chill in the refrigerator for a while before cutting them. This makes slicing much easier and helps the flavors meld beautifully. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s guaranteed to impress your family and friends!
You'll Love These Squares Because
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with nutty almonds
- Coconut adds a tropical twist and chewy texture
- Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence
Understanding Your Ingredients
Each component of Chocolate Almond Coconut Squares plays a vital role in crafting the perfect texture and flavor. Almond flour provides a nutty base that's gluten-free, allowing for a soft yet firm consistency. The shredded coconut adds not only chewiness but also a subtle sweetness that complements the rich cocoa. Using high-quality cocoa powder is essential; it should be rich and aromatic to infuse the squares with intense chocolate flavor. I recommend choosing an unsweetened option for better control over the sweetness if you're looking to balance flavors.
The addition of dark chocolate chips is a game-changer in these squares. They melt beautifully, adding gooey pockets of chocolate that contrast with the chewy coconut and nutty almond flavors. For those seeking a dairy-free option, be sure to opt for vegan chocolate chips. Maple syrup not only acts as a sweetener but also contributes moisture, keeping the squares rich and fudgy without excess fat. If you prefer a different sweetener, agave syrup can be a suitable substitute, although it may slightly alter the texture.
Baking Tips for Perfect Squares
Getting the baking time just right is crucial to achieving that ideal texture in your squares. Keep a close eye on them during the last minutes of baking; you'll want to see the edges start pulling away and turning a light golden color while the center remains a bit soft. It's okay if they appear slightly underbaked, as they will firm up upon cooling. If your squares seem too crumbly after baking, it might be worth reducing the baking time next round to achieve a better balance.
If you're passionate about customizing your Chocolate Almond Coconut Squares, consider adding a pinch of sea salt atop each square before baking. This will enhance the sweetness and create a delightful flavor contrast. Additionally, you can replace the almond milk with a nut-free option like coconut milk for a more intense coconut flavor. Alternatively, if allergies are a concern, oat or soy milk works well while still keeping the squares moist.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Almond Coconut Squares
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup almond milk
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine almond flour, shredded coconut, cocoa powder, and salt. Stir until everything is well incorporated.
Add Wet Ingredients
Add maple syrup, almond milk, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Mix until you have a smooth batter.
Fold in Chocolate Chips
Fold in the dark chocolate chips gently until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges start to pull away from the sides.
Cool and Cut
Allow the squares to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to the refrigerator. Once chilled, cut into squares and serve.
Pro Tips
- For a fun variation, you can add a layer of melted dark chocolate on top before chilling for extra richness!
Storing and Freezing
To keep your Chocolate Almond Coconut Squares fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you want to make them last longer, these squares freeze very well! Just cut them into individual squares, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months and can be enjoyed straight from the freezer for a fudgy treat, or thawed for a softer bite.
When ready to serve after freezing, simply let them sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. The texture will become pleasantly chewy, and the chocolate chips will return to their melting consistency. Freezing doesn’t just extend shelf life; it can also enhance the flavor as the ingredients continue to meld together as they sit.
Serving Suggestions
These squares are delightful on their own, but you can elevate the experience by serving them with a dollop of whipped coconut cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, creating a delightful dessert duo. A drizzle of melted dark chocolate over the squares not only adds a beautiful presentation but also intensifies the chocolate flavor. For a bit of crunch and visual appeal, sprinkle crushed almonds or cocoa nibs on top before serving.
If you’re preparing these for a gathering, consider cutting the squares into bite-sized pieces for easy sharing. They also make a great base for a dessert platter when paired with fresh fruit, such as strawberries or banana slices, which add a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate flavor. Whether for a picnic, party, or just a cozy night in, these squares are truly versatile.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different sweetener instead of maple syrup?
Yes, you can use honey or agave syrup as alternatives.
→ Are there any nut-free alternatives?
You can use sunflower seed flour instead of almond flour for a nut-free version.
→ How should I store the squares?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
→ Can I freeze these squares?
Absolutely! They freeze well; just make sure to wrap them tightly.
Chocolate Almond Coconut Squares
I absolutely adore making Chocolate Almond Coconut Squares, especially when I’m in the mood for something indulgent yet simple. The combination of rich chocolate and nutty almond paired with the sweetness of coconut is heavenly. Each bite melts in your mouth, leaving a delightful taste that keeps you coming back for more. I love making these squares for gatherings—they are always a hit and the perfect treat for sharing. Plus, the recipe is straightforward, making it easy to whip up a batch whenever the craving hits!
Created by: Evelyn Parker
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 16 squares
What You'll Need
For the Chocolate Almond Coconut Squares
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup almond milk
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
In a mixing bowl, combine almond flour, shredded coconut, cocoa powder, and salt. Stir until everything is well incorporated.
Add maple syrup, almond milk, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Mix until you have a smooth batter.
Fold in the dark chocolate chips gently until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges start to pull away from the sides.
Allow the squares to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to the refrigerator. Once chilled, cut into squares and serve.
Extra Tips
- For a fun variation, you can add a layer of melted dark chocolate on top before chilling for extra richness!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 4g