Chocolate Date Nut Bars are a delicious, no-bake treat that combines the natural sweetness of dates with the crunch of salty cookies, peanuts, and almonds. These bars are perfect for those who love a balance of sweet and salty flavors. The chewy texture of the dates and the rich coating of dark chocolate make them an irresistible snack. With the added crunch from peanuts and almonds, these bars are not only tasty but also packed with healthy fats and fiber. They are easy to prepare, making them a great option for a quick dessert or snack on the go.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
For the Bars:
- 5.3 oz. (150 grams) dates (pitted)
- 3.6 oz. (100 grams) salty cookies (without sugar)
- 1.8 oz. (50 grams) peanuts (unsalted)
- 1.5 oz. (40 grams) almonds (whole or chopped)
- 0.71 oz. (20 grams) honey
- Colored nuts (for decoration)
For the Chocolate Coating:
- 3.6 oz. (100 grams) dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher)
- 0.71 oz. (20 grams) vegetable oil
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Soften the Dates:
- If your dates are dry, soak them in warm water for about 10 minutes to soften them. This will make it easier to blend them into a smooth paste.
- Grind the Cookies:
- Crush the salty cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor or by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and smashing them with a rolling pin. Set the cookie crumbs aside.
- Chop the Nuts:
- Coarsely chop the peanuts and almonds. You want them to retain some texture, so avoid grinding them into a fine powder.
Step 2: Blend the Date Mixture
- Blend the Dates:
- Drain the softened dates (if soaked) and place them in a food processor. Pulse until the dates form a smooth, sticky paste.
- Combine the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the date paste, crushed salty cookies, chopped peanuts, and almonds.
- Add the honey to the mixture, and using your hands or a spatula, mix everything until fully combined. The mixture should be sticky enough to hold together.
Step 3: Shape the Bars
- Form the Mixture:
- Transfer the mixture onto a sheet of parchment paper or a clean work surface.
- Use your hands to press the mixture into a flat rectangle, about 1/2-inch thick. You can use a rolling pin to smooth out the surface if needed.
- Cut into Bars:
- Once the mixture is evenly pressed, cut it into rectangular bars of your desired size. You should get about 8-10 bars from this recipe.
Step 4: Prepare the Chocolate Coating
- Melt the Chocolate:
- In a microwave-safe bowl or over a double boiler, melt the dark chocolate and vegetable oil together until smooth. Stir occasionally to ensure the chocolate melts evenly without burning.
- Dip the Bars in Chocolate:
- Using tongs or a fork, dip each bar into the melted chocolate, coating it fully or just on top, depending on your preference.
- Place the coated bars on a sheet of parchment paper to allow the chocolate to set.
Step 5: Decorate and Chill
- Decorate with Colored Nuts:
- While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle the top of each bar with colored nuts for decoration. This adds a fun and festive touch to the bars.
- Chill the Bars:
- Transfer the bars to the refrigerator and let them chill for about 20-30 minutes or until the chocolate is fully set.
Cooking Tips:
- Dates: If your dates are too sticky to handle, you can lightly coat your hands with water or oil while mixing and shaping the bars. Medjool dates work best for this recipe because they are naturally soft and sweet.
- Nuts: Feel free to experiment with different types of nuts, such as cashews or walnuts, if you prefer. You can also toast the peanuts and almonds for extra flavor.
- Chocolate Coating: For a thicker chocolate coating, you can double-dip the bars after the first layer of chocolate has set.
- Vegan Option: Replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar, and make sure your dark chocolate is dairy-free for a vegan version of this recipe.
Storage:
- Refrigeration: Store the Chocolate Date Nut Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. This will keep the chocolate firm and the bars fresh.
- Freezing: You can freeze these bars for longer storage. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator or at room temperature before enjoying.
- Room Temperature: These bars can be stored at room temperature for a day or two, but they are best kept in a cool place to prevent the chocolate from melting.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 8 servings):
- Calories: 230
- Total Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 15g
- Protein: 4g
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I make these bars nut-free?
Yes, you can substitute the peanuts and almonds with seeds such as sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free version. You can also add dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for added texture.
2. Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, milk chocolate can be used for a sweeter flavor. However, dark chocolate pairs well with the sweetness of the dates and provides a nice balance.
3. How do I prevent the bars from sticking?
To prevent sticking, you can lightly grease your hands with oil when shaping the bars or use parchment paper to press the mixture into shape. Ensure the dates are not overly wet, as this can make the mixture too sticky.
4. Can I add other ingredients to the bars?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize these bars by adding ingredients like shredded coconut, chia seeds, or oats. You can also experiment with different spices such as cinnamon or cardamom for an extra flavor boost.
5. Can I use a different sweetener instead of honey?
Yes, you can use other liquid sweeteners like maple syrup, agave nectar, or date syrup for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion:
Chocolate Date Nut Bars are a perfect combination of chewy, crunchy, sweet, and salty flavors. These bars are not only a treat for your taste buds but also a healthier alternative to traditional sugary snacks. With the natural sweetness of dates, the crunch of nuts, and the rich, velvety coating of dark chocolate, these bars make a satisfying snack or dessert. They’re easy to prepare and store, making them great for meal prepping or enjoying on the go. Whether you’re looking for a quick energy boost or a delicious treat to share, these Chocolate Date Nut Bars are sure to please!