Chocolate Hazelnut Oat Squares

Name: Chocolate Hazelnut Oat Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup rolled oats; 1/2 cup hazelnuts, chopped; 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love making these Chocolate Hazelnut Oat Squares as a quick and satisfying treat. The combination of rich chocolate and crunchy hazelnuts creates a delicious contrast that always hits the spot. Whipping these up takes no time at all, and they are perfect for any occasion, whether I want to indulge myself or impress friends and family. Plus, the oat base means they’re not just a dessert, but a wholesome snack too!

Created by

Jasmine Porter

Last updated on 2026-01-18T02:52:06.792Z

When I first experimented with these Chocolate Hazelnut Oat Squares, I was blown away by how simple yet scrumptious they are. The key to achieving the perfect texture lies in using rolled oats, which provide a hearty base. I love that I can have these ready in under an hour, making them a fantastic last-minute dessert for gatherings.

One of my favorite tips is to toast the hazelnuts before adding them to the mixture; it amplifies their flavor and gives that delightful crunch. These squares are not only delicious, but they also have the added benefit of being a healthier alternative to conventional desserts – a win-win in my book!

        Why You Will Love These Squares
        Rich chocolate flavor combined with crunchy hazelnuts
Wholesome oats provide a satisfying base
Quick and easy to make for any occasion

      

Perfecting the Texture

Achieving the right texture for your Chocolate Hazelnut Oat Squares starts with the way you combine your ingredients. Make sure your wet ingredients are well mixed before adding them to the dry mixture. This ensures that every oat and hazelnut piece is evenly coated, which contributes to a cohesive texture. If you find your mixture too crumbly before baking, try adding a bit more melted coconut oil to help bind it together, about a tablespoon should do the trick.

When spreading the mixture in the baking pan, press it down firmly but not excessively—instead of packing it down like dough, gently level it out with a spatula. This method helps create a chewy texture in the finished product, with the oats holding their structure and the chocolate making each bite melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

Ingredient Insights

The type of cocoa powder you choose can significantly impact the flavor profile of your squares. Dutch-processed cocoa will give you a softer, milder chocolate flavor, whereas natural cocoa powder will provide a more robust, slightly acidic taste. Either choice works beautifully; it really comes down to your personal preference for chocolate intensity.

In this recipe, hazelnuts contribute not only a wonderful crunch but also healthy fats and protein. If you're out of hazelnuts or prefer a different nut, walnuts or almonds could be excellent substitutes. Just remember to chop them into similar sizes for even distribution. Roasting the nuts lightly before adding them can also enhance their flavor, making them even crunchier.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup hazelnuts, chopped
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

Now that you have everything ready, let’s move on to the steps.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your squares:

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped hazelnuts, cocoa powder, and salt.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the melted coconut oil, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine Mixtures

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

Add Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the dark chocolate chips.

Bake

Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking pan and bake for about 20 minutes or until set.

Cool and Cut

Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then lift out and cut into squares.

Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Hazelnut Oat Squares!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle some sea salt on top before baking. This enhances the chocolate taste and provides a gourmet touch.

Storage Tips

Once your Chocolate Hazelnut Oat Squares have completely cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you live in a warmer climate, consider refrigerating them; the coolness will help maintain their texture and extend freshness. For longer storage, you can freeze the squares—just wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to three months in the freezer.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen squares, simply remove them and let them sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. The squares will soften slightly, making them easy to bite into while preserving that delightful crunch from the hazelnuts.

Serving Suggestions

These squares are delicious on their own, but if you're looking to elevate your serving game, consider drizzling a bit of melted dark chocolate on top before cutting them into squares. This adds an extra layer of richness and makes them visually appealing for gatherings. You can also serve them alongside a dollop of Greek yogurt or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a satisfying dessert that will impress your guests.

For a more indulgent breakfast option, try pairing these squares with a warm cup of coffee or tea. The combination of the rich chocolate and the nutty flavors complements your morning brew beautifully. If your mornings are on the go, simply grab a square along with a piece of fruit for a filling snack that keeps you energized.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another type of nut?

Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds would work great as substitutes.

→ How long do these squares last?

They can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week at room temperature.

→ Can I make these vegan?

Yes! Just use maple syrup instead of honey and ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free.

→ What can I serve these with?

They pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt.