Prep the pan: Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment, leaving flaps for easy lifting.
Lightly grease the sides.
Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk almond flour, shredded coconut, chopped pecans, flaxseed meal, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and sweetener until evenly mixed.
Mix wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, melted butter, maple extract, and vanilla until smooth. If the butter starts to seize, add a splash of almond milk and whisk again.
Make the batter: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir with a spatula until a thick, scoopable batter forms.
If it looks dry or crumbly, add almond milk 1 tablespoon at a time until it holds together. Fold in chocolate chips if using.
Press and top: Transfer the batter to the pan. Press into an even layer with a spatula or damp fingers.
Sprinkle the remaining pecans on top and press them in lightly.
Bake: Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center looks set. A toothpick should come out with just a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
Cool completely: Let the pan cool on a rack for at least 30–45 minutes before lifting the slab out. Cooling helps the bars firm up and slice cleanly.
Slice and serve: Cut into 9 larger bars or 12 smaller bars.
Enjoy as-is or with a smear of almond butter.