Chocolate Peanut Butter Date Bars

Name: Chocolate Peanut Butter Date Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 1 cup pitted Medjool dates; 1 cup rolled oats; 1/2 cup natural peanut butter; 1/4 cup cocoa powder; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1 tsp vanilla extract; A pinch of salt; Chopped nuts or seeds; Shredded coconut; Sea salt for sprinkling

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making these Chocolate Peanut Butter Date Bars as a quick and nutritious snack. The combination of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter always satisfies my sweet tooth, while the dates provide a natural sweetness and chewy texture. I can whip these up in less than 30 minutes, and they pack an energy punch that keeps me going throughout the day. Whether I enjoy them as a pre-workout snack or a midday treat, they never fail to hit the spot!

Created by

Felicity Grant

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:37:17.692Z

When I first experimented with these bars, I was pleasantly surprised by how simple and tasty they turned out. The medley of nuts and dates creates a chewy foundation, while the chocolate gives it that indulgent twist. I also discovered that lining the dish with parchment paper makes for easy removal and cutting, which is a game-changer when you're craving a quick treat!

These bars have become a staple in my home, perfect for satisfying cravings while still being wholesome. I’ve played around with the ingredients, sometimes adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top for an added depth of flavor. Every batch is slightly different, but they always disappear quickly!

        Why You'll Love These Bars
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with creamy peanut butter
Nutritious ingredients that fuel your day
No baking required for an effortless treat

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of these Chocolate Peanut Butter Date Bars lies in its simple yet nutrient-dense ingredients. Medjool dates are key, as their natural sweetness and sticky texture help bind the bars without the need for refined sugars. When selecting your dates, ensure they are fresh and soft; this ensures a smooth blend in your food processor and a chewier final product. If you can’t find Medjool dates, you can substitute with other soft dates, but adjust the quantity, as some varieties are drier than others.

Peanut butter serves a dual purpose in this recipe: it provides richness and acts as a binding agent. Opt for a natural peanut butter without added sugars or hydrogenated oils for the healthiest option. If you're looking for alternatives, almond butter or sunflower seed butter work wonderfully, giving you a nut-free or varied flavor profile without compromising texture. Remember that the type of nut butter can affect the final taste of your bars, so choose one that aligns with your flavor preferences.

Perfecting the Texture

Achieving the right consistency for your bars is crucial. When blending the mixture in your food processor, stop occasionally to scrape down the sides. You want a sticky, cohesive dough that holds together but isn’t overly greasy. If the mixture appears too crumbly, add small amounts of warm water or additional peanut butter until you reach the desired consistency. Conversely, if the dough is too sticky, adding a bit more oatmeal can help firm it up without altering the flavor.

Pressing the mixture into the dish evenly is another important step. Utilize the back of a measuring cup or a spatula to ensure an even surface and corners. A well-pressed base not only holds together better but also allows for uniform cutting later on. After refrigerating, look for a slightly firm but still slightly pliable texture when you cut them; this indicates they've set properly without becoming too hard.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 cup pitted Medjool dates
1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup natural peanut butter
1/4 cup cocoa powder
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1 tsp vanilla extract
A pinch of salt

Optional Toppings

Chopped nuts or seeds
Shredded coconut
Sea salt for sprinkling

Instructions

Prepare the Base

In a food processor, combine the pitted dates, rolled oats, peanut butter, cocoa powder, honey, vanilla extract, and salt. Blend until the mixture forms a sticky and cohesive dough.

Press into a Dish

Line an 8x8 inch dish with parchment paper for easy removal. Press the mixture evenly into the dish, ensuring a compact and even layer.

Chill and Set

Place the dish in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes to help the bars set properly.

Cut and Serve

Once set, remove from the dish using the parchment paper and cut into bars. Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try mixing in some chopped dark chocolate or a touch of cinnamon to the dough before pressing it into the dish.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

These Chocolate Peanut Butter Date Bars are perfect for meal prep! You can make a large batch and store them in the fridge for up to a week, making them an ideal grab-and-go snack. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing individual bars wrapped in parchment paper and then placed in a freezer-safe bag. They will last up to three months, and when you're ready, simply thaw at room temperature or enjoy them slightly frozen.

For best flavor retention, avoid exposing the bars to moisture or heat, which can alter their texture and taste. Additionally, you can layer parchment paper between the bars in storage to prevent them from sticking together. This technique not only keeps them intact but also makes it easier to grab one when you're in a hurry.

Serving Suggestions

One of the best things about these bars is their versatility! Enjoy them as a standalone snack or pair them with yogurt for a protein-packed breakfast. They also make a fantastic fuel option during outdoor activities or after a workout. For an added touch, drizzle some melted dark chocolate over the bars after they have set for a luxurious finish, or sprinkle with sea salt to enhance the flavors.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding mix-ins like dried fruit or seeds for extra texture. Chia seeds, flaxseeds, or even mini chocolate chips can introduce new flavors and make each bite exciting. Just remember to adjust the base ingredients slightly if you add substantial quantities of dry ingredients to maintain the right consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other nut butters?

Absolutely! Almond butter or cashew butter are great alternatives.

→ How long can these bars be stored?

They can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these bars?

Yes! They freeze well for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly.

→ Are these bars vegan?

Yes, as long as you use maple syrup instead of honey, these bars can be made vegan.