Chocolate Banana Hazelnut Snack Squares

Name: Chocolate Banana Hazelnut Snack Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup rolled oats; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup hazelnut butter; 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt

Highlighted under: Fresh Planning

I adore these Chocolate Banana Hazelnut Snack Squares for their rich, decadent flavor and wholesome ingredients. Each bite is a delightful balance of chocolate, banana, and the nutty crunch of hazelnuts. Whether enjoyed as an afternoon treat or a post-workout snack, they never fail to satisfy my cravings. Plus, they are easy to make and require minimal cleanup, which is always a bonus in my kitchen. I love sharing them with friends and family, and watching their faces light up with each delicious bite.

Created by

Fern Holloway

Last updated on 2026-01-21T19:05:34.888Z

When I first experimented with these snack squares, I was looking for a healthy yet indulgent treat that captured the flavors I love. The combination of ripe bananas and rich chocolate creates a luscious base, while the hazelnuts add a delightful crunch that elevates the entire experience. I found that using ripe bananas enhances the natural sweetness, allowing me to reduce added sugars.

Each time I make these squares, I tweak the hazelnuts slightly—sometimes I toast them for extra flavor, or even swap in almond butter for a different nutty profile. This versatile recipe has become a staple in my home, proving that healthy snacks can indeed be delicious!

Why You Will Love These Squares
Delicious combination of rich chocolate and sweet banana
Nutty crunch from hazelnuts enhances every bite
Easy to make and perfect for meal prep
A healthier alternative to store-bought snacks

The Role of Bananas and Hazelnuts

In this recipe, ripe bananas serve as a natural sweetener and binder, contributing moisture and a rich flavor. The ripeness of the bananas is crucial; overripe ones will make the squares sweeter, while mildly ripe bananas will yield a more balanced flavor. Choose bananas with plenty of brown spots for the best results. Hazelnuts not only introduce a delightful crunch but also provide healthy fats and proteins, making these squares a more nutritious snack option.

When it comes to hazelnut butter, using a fresh, high-quality nut butter is essential for optimal flavor. You can make your own by processing toasted hazelnuts in a food processor until smooth. However, store-bought hazelnut butter can save time. If you're craving a different nutty flavor, feel free to swap hazelnut butter with almond or cashew butter, keeping in mind the potential flavor impact on the final squares.

Baking Tips for Perfect Texture

To achieve the ideal texture for your Chocolate Banana Hazelnut Snack Squares, make sure not to overmix the batter once you combine the dry and wet ingredients. Overmixing can result in dense squares instead of the light, chewy texture we desire. Gently folding the mixtures ensures that the final product remains fluffy while still holding together well. When pouring the mixture into the baking dish, smoothing the top helps with even baking—a key to avoiding undercooked centers.

During baking, keep an eye on the edges of the squares. They should appear set and slightly pulling away from the sides of the dish by the 25-minute mark. If the center still looks undercooked or jiggly, bake in 2-3 minute intervals until fully set. Allowing the squares to cool completely in the dish ensures they firm up, making slicing easier and reducing the risk of crumbling.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

2 ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup rolled oats
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup hazelnut butter
1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your snack squares:

Preheat Oven

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

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, hazelnut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Mix well until smooth.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Then, gently stir in the chopped hazelnuts.

Bake

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top. Bake for 25 minutes or until set. Allow to cool before cutting into squares.

Serve

Once cool, cut into 16 squares and enjoy your delicious snack!

Enjoy these squares with a friend or pack them for a snack on the go!

Pro Tips

For an extra chocolatey treat, consider adding chocolate chips to the mixture before baking. If you're nut-sensitive, you can substitute with sunflower seed butter and omit the hazelnuts.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

These snack squares are perfect for meal prep! Once cooled, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate them to extend their shelf life to one week. For longer storage, consider freezing the squares. Cut them into individual portions, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months, allowing for quick, healthy snacks anytime.

When ready to enjoy frozen squares, simply take them out and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes or pop them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. This quick reheating restores their delightful gooey texture, especially enhancing the chocolate flavor. Pair them with a fresh fruit or yogurt for a balanced snack.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize the chocolate content in your squares. By adding chocolate chips or chunks, you can amplify the chocolate flavor and create pockets of melty goodness. Dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips work beautifully, but you can also experiment with white or milk chocolate depending on your preference.

For an extra flavor kick, consider adding spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry mixture. A pinch of espresso powder can also deepen the chocolate flavor if you’d like a slight coffee note. If allergies restrict nut consumption, use sunflower seed butter and pepitas instead of hazelnuts, making for a nut-free version that's equally delicious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different nut butter?

Absolutely! Almond butter or peanut butter works great as a substitute for hazelnut butter.

→ Can I make these vegan?

Yes! Simply replace honey with maple syrup and ensure any other ingredients used are vegan-friendly.

→ How should I store these snack squares?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze them for longer storage.

→ Can I add other mix-ins?

Yes! Feel free to mix in dried fruit, seeds, or even protein powder to suit your preferences.