Chocolate Peanut Butter Date Bars

Name: Chocolate Peanut Butter Date Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 1 cup Medjool dates, pitted; 1 cup smooth peanut butter; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional); Chocolate chips for topping (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love creating sweet treats that satisfy my cravings without compromising on nutrition. These Chocolate Peanut Butter Date Bars have quickly become my go-to snack for a quick energy boost. With just three main ingredients, they are incredibly easy to whip up and offer a perfect balance of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter. I appreciate how these bars are naturally sweetened with dates, making them a healthier alternative to traditional desserts. Whether I need a post-workout snack or a midday treat, these bars never disappoint!

Created by

Vanessa Doyle

Last updated on 2026-01-15T14:49:14.895Z

When I first made these Chocolate Peanut Butter Date Bars, I was amazed at how simple the process was yet how delicious the result turned out to be. The combination of dates and peanut butter creates a naturally sweet flavor that, combined with dark chocolate, satisfies my sweet tooth while keeping things healthy. I often make a double batch to ensure I always have some on hand, as they’re perfect for snacking throughout the week.

My secret tip for the perfect texture is to blend the dates until they form a smooth paste before mixing with the peanut butter and cocoa. This ensures that every bite is uniformly sweet and has a satisfying chew. I’ve experimented with adding some chia seeds for extra crunch, and it has become a delightful addition! If you enjoy healthy snacks with a touch of indulgence, you’ll love these bars as much as I do.

        Why You'll Love These Bars
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with creamy peanut butter
Naturally sweetened with dates for a guilt-free treat
Perfect for on-the-go snacking or a post-workout boost

      

Understanding the Key Ingredients

The star ingredients of these Chocolate Peanut Butter Date Bars are Medjool dates, smooth peanut butter, and unsweetened cocoa powder. Medjool dates not only provide natural sweetness but also a chewy texture that balances beautifully with the creaminess of peanut butter. Their sticky nature helps bind the bars together, so it’s crucial to use fresh, high-quality dates to achieve the best results. If using dried or hard dates, consider soaking them in warm water for 10-15 minutes to soften.

Smooth peanut butter is essential for creating that rich, luxurious consistency. While standard peanut butter works well, opting for natural, no-stir peanut butter enhances the flavor without added sugars or hydrogenated oils. If you have allergies or dietary restrictions, almond or cashew butter makes a delightful alternative that still provides a similar creamy texture and richness. Just keep in mind that the flavor will vary slightly.

Perfecting the Preparation Method

When blending the ingredients, ensure your food processor is powerful enough to break down the dates into a smooth paste. This usually takes about 1-2 minutes. If your mixture feels too dry or crumbly after adding peanut butter and cocoa, a splash of warm water can help. Blend until the mixture is glossy and cohesive, which not only enhances the bars' texture but also ensures a consistent flavor throughout.

When pressing the mixture into the baking dish, be sure to use a solid, even pressure to avoid air pockets, which can lead to crumbly bars. I recommend using a spatula or the back of a measuring cup for an even layer. For cleaner cuts, chill the bars in the refrigerator for at least one hour. Cold bars are firmer and easier to slice, yielding better uniformity in size.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make a delicious treat!

Ingredients

1 cup Medjool dates, pitted
1 cup smooth peanut butter
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Chocolate chips for topping (optional)

These ingredients come together to form the perfect treat!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your bars.

Blend the Dates

In a food processor, combine the pitted Medjool dates until they form a smooth paste.

Mix Ingredients

Add the peanut butter and unsweetened cocoa powder to the dates and blend until fully incorporated.

Add Optional Ingredients

If desired, add chopped nuts and mix to combine. Transfer the mixture to a lined 8x8-inch baking dish.

Shape and Chill

Press the mixture firmly into the dish to create an even layer. If using, sprinkle chocolate chips on top. Chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour before cutting into bars.

Once chilled and set, your bars are ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For added texture and flavor, consider incorporating seeds or dried fruits into the mixture. Feel free to experiment with different nut butters for a unique twist.

Storage and Shelf Life

These Chocolate Peanut Butter Date Bars store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you prefer to make a larger batch or want to enjoy them later, consider freezing them. Simply cut the bars into servings, layer them with parchment paper, and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will maintain their flavor and texture for up to three months. When ready to eat, just let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften slightly.

For added freshness, you might consider wrapping individual pieces in wax paper or plastic wrap before freezing. This way, you can easily grab a healthy snack on the go. Just be sure to label the container with the date so you can keep track of their freshness.

Serving Suggestions

These bars are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed on their own as a snack, or you can get creative! Slice them into smaller pieces and serve them as a topping on yogurt or oatmeal for a rich, nutritious breakfast. They also pair beautifully with fresh fruit like bananas or berries, adding a fun twist to your snacking routine.

For those with an adventurous palate, try drizzling a little melted dark chocolate over the chilled bars before serving for an extra touch of indulgence. You can also sprinkle sea salt on top for a sweet-salty contrast that elevates the overall flavor profile. Experimenting with toppings helps personalize the bars to your taste preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of nuts?

Yes! Almonds or cashews would work great in place of peanuts.

→ How should I store these bars?

Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

→ Can I freeze the bars?

Absolutely! You can freeze them for up to three months; just make sure to wrap them individually.

→ Are these bars vegan?

Yes, as long as you use vegan chocolate chips, these bars are completely plant-based!