The Hiking Trail Brownie: No-Bake Chocolate Coconut Date Balls

For the hiker with a sweet tooth, the trail can be a tempting place.

It’s easy to reach for a sugary chocolate bar for a quick-fix, only to be met with an energy crash an hour later.

These no-bake “trail brownie” bites are the perfect solution.

They deliver a rich, decadent, chocolatey flavour that fully satisfies a craving, but without any of the processed sugar.

The secret is their simplicity. They are sweetened entirely with dates, which provide natural energy and create a wonderfully rich, fudgy texture.

Healthy fats from almonds and coconut provide the slow-burning, sustained fuel you need for a long day on your feet.

Best of all, they take about 10 minutes to make in a food processor, require zero baking, and will give you an instant, healthy morale boost when you need it most.

Variations & Tips

• Nut Swap: This recipe is fantastic with other nuts. Try swapping the almonds for walnuts or cashews.
• Trail “Spumoni”: Add 50g (approx. 1/3 cup) of dried tart cherries and a few mini chocolate chips for a delicious cherry-chocolate flavour.
• Extra Fibre: Add 1 tablespoon of chia seeds or ground flaxseed to the food processor along with the dates.
• Firmness: If your energy bites are too soft, simply store them in the freezer and pack them frozen. They will thaw perfectly in your pack by the time you’re ready for a snack.

Packing & Storage

• At Home: Store the energy bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, or in the freezer for up to three months.
• On the Trail: These are very stable and travel well. Pack them in a small, sturdy container or a reusable zip-top bag. They will be fine in your pack for 2–3 days without refrigeration.

Paul Steele

Paul Steele is the founder and lead guide of BaldHiker. A veteran of the British Army, he channels his extensive experience in leadership, navigation, and outdoor safety into every adventure he creates. He started BaldHiker in 2010 to share his lifelong passion for the outdoors and now leads guided walks and wellbeing retreats across the UK and beyond. His mission is to help people discover the joy and restorative power of nature with confidence and a spirit of adventure.