These rich, fudgy bars combine the natural sweetness of dates with roasted peanuts and chocolate for a healthy treat that tastes surprisingly decadent. With no added sugar or flour, they’re perfect for health-conscious dessert lovers.
The Story Behind the Recipe
These bars were inspired by the growing movement toward natural, whole-food desserts. By harnessing the natural sweetness of dates and the rich flavor of roasted peanuts, this recipe creates a satisfying treat that’s both nutritious and delicious.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients:
- Medjool dates, pitted: 1 cup (200g)
- Roasted peanuts: 1 cup (150g)
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: 1 tablespoon (7g)
- Ground cinnamon: ½ teaspoon (1.3g)
- Coconut oil or peanut butter: 1 tablespoon (15g)
Optional Toppings:
- Extra chopped peanuts
- Melted dark chocolate
- Sea salt flakes
Detailed Instructions
- Prepare the Base
- Line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper
- Leave overhang for easy removal
- Lightly grease with coconut oil
- Process the Peanuts
- Add roasted peanuts to food processor
- Pulse until coarsely chopped
- Reserve some for texture if desired
- Create the Mixture
- Add pitted dates to peanuts
- Add cocoa powder and cinnamon
- Add coconut oil or peanut butter
- Process until mixture comes together
- Mixture should stick when pressed
- Form the Bars
- Press mixture firmly into prepared pan
- Use flat bottom of glass for even surface
- Press additional chopped peanuts on top
- Drizzle with melted chocolate if desired
- Set and Slice
- Refrigerate for 30 minutes
- Cut into 12-16 bars
- Store in airtight container
Nutritional Information
Per bar (based on 12 servings):
- Calories: 140
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 3g
- Natural Sugars: 12g
- Healthy Fats: 8g
Timing:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Chill time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 45 minutes
Pro Tips and Tricks
- Ingredient Selection
- Use fresh, soft dates
- Choose unsalted roasted peanuts
- High-quality cocoa powder enhances flavor
- Texture Control
- Don’t over-process
- Keep some peanut chunks for texture
- Add more coconut oil if too dry
- Shaping Tips
- Use wet hands to prevent sticking
- Press firmly for bars that hold together
- Chill between layers of parchment
Variations and Substitutions
- Nut Options
- Almonds
- Cashews
- Mixed nuts
- Sunflower seeds (nut-free)
- Flavor Additions
- Espresso powder
- Orange zest
- Vanilla extract
- Sea salt
- Dried fruit
Common FAQs
Q: Why won’t my mixture stick together?
A: Dates might be too dry. Add more coconut oil or soak dates briefly.
Q: Can I freeze these bars?
A: Yes, they freeze well for up to 3 months.
Q: How long do they last?
A: Up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.
Q: Are these bars keto-friendly?
A: No, due to the natural sugars in dates.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigerator Storage:
- Keep in airtight container
- Separate layers with parchment
- Lasts up to 2 weeks
- Freezer Storage:
- Wrap individually
- Store in freezer bag
- Thaw in refrigerator
- Room Temperature:
- Can be kept at room temperature for up to 24 hours
- Best served chilled
These no-bake chocolate date bars offer a perfect balance of healthy fats, natural sweetness, and rich chocolate flavor. They’re ideal for meal prep, pre-workout energy, or when you need a wholesome sweet treat that won’t spike your blood sugar.