Date Bars with Peanut Butter and Chocolate Recipe
These Date Bars with Peanut Butter and Chocolate are a delightful no-bake treat combining naturally sweet Medjool dates, creamy peanut butter, and rich melted chocolate. Topped with crunchy chopped peanuts and a sprinkle of sea salt, these bars offer a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making them a wholesome and satisfying snack or dessert.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Base Layer
- 20 Medjool dates, pitted
Middle Layer
- ⅔ cup creamy peanut butter
Topping
- ¾ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (or milk chocolate chips)
- ½ cup peanuts, coarsely chopped
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the pan: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easier removal of the bars.
- Arrange the dates: Remove the pits from the 20 Medjool dates and open them so the sticky side is facing up. Lay them out on the parchment paper, pressing them close together to form a rough rectangular layer.
- Flatten the base: Cover the date layer with plastic wrap. Use a rolling pin or the bottom of a cup to press the dates into an even, compact layer with no gaps, creating a solid base for the bars.
- Spread the peanut butter: Remove the plastic wrap and evenly spread ⅔ cup of creamy peanut butter over the pressed date layer using an offset spatula for smooth, full coverage.
- Melt the chocolate: Using a double boiler method, gently melt ¾ cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips until smooth. If the chocolate is too thick, add a small amount of coconut oil to achieve a silky consistency.
- Coat with chocolate: Pour or drizzle the melted chocolate evenly over the peanut butter layer. Spread it with a spoon or spatula to cover the entire surface.
- Add toppings: While the chocolate is still soft, sprinkle ½ cup of coarsely chopped peanuts on top and gently press them into the chocolate. Optionally, sprinkle ¼ teaspoon of sea salt flakes over the nuts to enhance flavor.
- Set and slice: Refrigerate the assembled bars uncovered for about 1 hour or freeze for 30 minutes until the chocolate has fully set and hardened. Once firm, slice into bars and enjoy.
Notes
- For easier slicing, warm the knife slightly before cutting to prevent chocolate cracking.
- Use dairy or vegan chocolate chips according to dietary preference.
- If dates are not soft, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes before using to ensure easier pressing.
- Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Can be customized by adding shredded coconut or chia seeds for added texture and nutrition.
Keywords: date bars, peanut butter bars, no-bake dessert, chocolate date bars, healthy snack, Medjool dates, peanut butter chocolate bars
