Short Description

A simple and wholesome treat made with Medjool dates, peanut butter, and dark chocolate—reminiscent of classic Snickers but without refined sugar and full of natural energy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This easy dessert is:

Naturally sweet and nutritious, made with whole dates that provide fiber and minerals.
Loaded with protein and healthy fats from peanut butter and nuts.
Quick to assemble, requiring no baking and minimal prep.
Flexible and customizable, with options to adjust sweetness, toppings, or portion size.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

20 Medjool dates, preferably pitted (I use Natural Delights brand)
½ cup creamy peanut butter (I use Justin’s brand)
¼ cup chopped peanuts
1 cup dark chocolate chips
1 teaspoon avocado oil or coconut oil
1 teaspoon flaky sea salt, to taste (Maldon is a great choice)

Directions

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy clean-up. Slice each date lengthwise and remove pits if needed. Arrange dates slit-side up on the parchment-lined sheet.
Press down on the dates using the bottom of a glass to flatten and slightly spread them (spray the glass with cooking spray to prevent sticking).
Microwave the peanut butter for 20–30 seconds to soften it, then spread about a teaspoon of peanut butter over each date, smoothing gently with a spatula.
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine dark chocolate chips and avocado or coconut oil. Melt in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth.
Pour and spread melted chocolate over the peanut butter‑topped dates.
Sprinkle chopped peanuts and flaky sea salt evenly over the chocolate layer.
Refrigerate or freeze for at least 30 minutes, until set. Once firm, cut into evenly sized bars or pieces.
Let thaw at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving for easier biting and enhanced texture.

Servings And Timing

Servings: Makes about 20 pieces, depending on how you slice
Prep Time: ~10–15 minutes
Chilling/Setting Time: ~30 minutes
Total Time: ~40–45 minutes

Variations

Nut‑free version: Use sunflower seed butter and omit peanuts altogether.
Vegan: Ensure chocolate chips are dairy‑free.
Mix‑ins: Add shredded coconut, cacao nibs, or tiny dried fruit pieces on top for texture.
Mini version: Use smaller dates or slice each date in half for bite‑sized snacks.
Flavor twist: Drizzle melted white chocolate for contrast or stir in a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder to the chocolate.

Storage/Reheating

Store in fridge: Keep in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Store in freezer: Freeze for up to 1 month.
Serving tip: Thaw at room temperature for around 10 minutes before eating to soften and enhance flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use any other kind of dates?

Yes, Medjool dates are ideal for their softness and sweetness, but any soft, pitted dates will work—just adjust the pressing method if slightly firmer.

2. Can I replace peanut butter with almond or cashew butter?

Absolutely—feel free to use almond or cashew butter for a different nutty flavor.

3. What if I don’t have avocado or coconut oil?

You can melt the chocolate on its own, though it may be thicker and set faster, so work quickly when spreading.

4. Can I make these ahead and store them?

Yes—these bars are perfect for making ahead and keeping refrigerated or frozen until needed.

5. Are these safe for kids?

Yes, they’re a naturally sweet, energy-packed treat without refined sugar—great for lunchboxes or snacks.

6. Can I adjust the sweetness?

The dates are already sweet, but you can add a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of powdered sweetener over the chocolate layer once set.

7. How do I cut clean pieces?

Chill thoroughly and use a sharp knife to slice; running the knife under hot water and wiping it between cuts helps too.

8. Can I roll these into balls instead?

Yes—press filling into mini balls, chill, then dip in melted chocolate and toppings for date‑PB snack bites.

9. What type of chocolate works best?

Use at least 60–70% dark chocolate for a rich flavor and firm set. Dairy‑free or sugar‑free options also work.

10. Do these hold up in warm weather?

They can soften quickly—keep them chilled until right before serving, or cut thicker bars for better handling.

Conclusion

These Easy Date Snickers Bars offer indulgent flavor without refined sugar, blending chewy dates, creamy peanut butter, and a crisp chocolate‑nut topping. They’re effortless to make, endlessly adaptable, and a smart option for healthier sweet cravings. Perfect for snacks, dessert, or meal-prep desserts you can enjoy anytime.