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 dark chocolate chips; 1/2 cup chopped pistachios; 1 cup shredded unsweetened coconut; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 teaspoon sea salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Cozy Cooking

I absolutely love creating snacks that are both delicious and nutritious, and these Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Snack Squares are a favorite in my home. With a delightful combination of rich chocolate, crunchy pistachios, and nutty coconut, each bite offers a unique flavor experience. They are quick to make and perfect for satisfying my sweet tooth without the guilt. I often prepare a batch to share during gatherings, and they always receive rave reviews from friends and family. Join me in making this delightful treat!

Created by

Isla Weatherford

Last updated on 2026-01-19T21:53:34.586Z

When I first created these Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Snack Squares, I wanted a sweet treat that wouldn't derail my healthy eating habits. I experimented with combining different textures and flavors, and it turned out to be a fantastic match! The combination of dark chocolate and toasted coconut provides a delicious melt-in-your-mouth effect, while the pistachios add a satisfying crunch.

One tip I discovered while making these is to chill the squares in the fridge for at least an hour before cutting them. This step helps them firm up nicely and makes for cleaner cuts. Plus, they taste even better chilled!

        Why You Will Love These Squares
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy pistachios
Nutty coconut texture that complements the sweetness
Quick and easy to prepare, making them a perfect snack

      

The Role of Coconut

The shredded unsweetened coconut in these snack squares not only adds a wonderful nutty flavor but also provides a chewy texture that balances the smoothness of the melted chocolate. I recommend using unsweetened coconut as it allows the natural sweetness of the honey or maple syrup to shine through without becoming overly sweet. If you're looking for a different texture, you could try using toasted coconut flakes for an extra crunch.

Coconut is also rich in healthy fats, making these squares a satisfying snack that keeps you full longer. When choosing coconut, ensure that it is fresh and not past its expiration date. Stale coconut can impact the overall flavor of your snack squares. You'll know it's fresh if it has a pleasant tropical aroma.

Understanding the Sweetness

The sweetness in these Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Snack Squares primarily comes from the honey or maple syrup. Each sweetener brings its own unique flavor profile; honey has a floral note, while maple syrup offers a deep, earthy sweetness. If you prefer a sugar-free version, you can substitute with a sugar-free sweetener that measures cup-for-cup, such as erythritol or stevia. Just keep in mind that the texture may slightly vary.

I like to taste the mixture before pressing it into the pan. This allows you to adjust the sweetness if needed. If you find it too sweet, consider adding a hint more sea salt to balance it out. Just a pinch can elevate the overall flavor and help to round out the snack.

Storage and Variations

These snack squares can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Keeping them chilled will maintain their shape and texture. You can also freeze them for longer storage—simply cut the squares and place them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet until frozen. Then transfer them to a freezer-friendly container. They will keep well for up to three months, and you can grab one whenever you need a quick treat.

Feel free to experiment with the ingredients to make these snack squares your own! You can add dried fruits, such as cranberries or apricots, for a burst of flavor or swap in walnuts or almonds for a different nutty taste. For an extra indulgent twist, try drizzling melted chocolate on top of the squares before chilling; it adds a lovely finish!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these indulgent snack squares:

Ingredients

1 cup dark chocolate chips
1/2 cup chopped pistachios
1 cup shredded unsweetened coconut
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Once you have all ingredients ready, you're set to start making these delightful snack squares!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Chocolate Pistachio Coconut Snack Squares:

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips and honey (or maple syrup). Microwave in 30-second intervals until fully melted and smooth, stirring in between.

Mix Ingredients

To the melted chocolate, add the chopped pistachios, shredded coconut, sea salt, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is thoroughly coated.

Pour into a Pan

Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper. Pour the mixture into the dish and press down evenly with a spatula.

Chill and Cut

Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until firm. Remove from the dish and cut into squares.

Now you can enjoy these tasty squares, perfect for snacking or as a sweet pick-me-up!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try mixing in a pinch of sea salt or a splash of almond extract. You can also replace the pistachios with your favorite nuts or seeds for a different twist.

Techniques for Success

When melting the chocolate chips, be careful not to overheat them in the microwave. Chocolate can burn quickly, which leads to a gritty texture. Instead, use the 30-second intervals method and stir well each time; it usually takes about 90 seconds total for the chocolate to become fully melted and glossy.

If your mixture doesn't seem to hold together when pressing it into the pan, you may need to add a bit more honey or a splash of water to help bind it. Alternatively, if it feels too soft, allow it to chill a little longer before pressing to set.

Serving Suggestions

These snack squares are versatile and make an excellent addition to lunch boxes or after-school snacks. You can also serve them at parties as finger food or dessert. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of coconut yogurt to create an indulgent treat that everyone will enjoy.

For an extra touch, sprinkle some extra chopped pistachios on top before refrigerating, adding both color and aesthetics to your snack squares. A sprinkling of flaky sea salt over the top just before serving enhances their flavor profile and makes them visually appealing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can substitute milk chocolate, but it will alter the flavor, making it sweeter.

→ How long do these snack squares last?

Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, they will last for about a week.

→ Can I freeze these snack squares?

Absolutely! They freeze well, so you can enjoy them later. Just wrap them tightly before freezing.

→ Is it possible to make these vegan?

Yes, simply use a plant-based chocolate and maple syrup instead of honey.