Chocolate Date Cashew Bars

Name: Chocolate Date Cashew Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 10 bars
Ingredients: 2 cups Medjool dates, pitted; 1 cup raw cashews; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/4 cup almond butter; 1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional); Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Modern Planning

I love creating quick and nutritious snacks, and these Chocolate Date Cashew Bars are a perfect example of that. With the rich sweetness of dates and the creaminess of cashews, they satisfy my sweet cravings while providing a boost of energy. Preparation is a breeze, requiring no baking, and the result is a chewy, delightful treat that the whole family enjoys. Whether I pack them for on-the-go snacks or serve them at gatherings, they never fail to impress.

Created by

Briar Kensington

Last updated on 2026-01-15T20:45:35.845Z

Making these Chocolate Date Cashew Bars was an exciting experience for me, as they uniquely combine the flavors of chocolate and nuts. I experimented with different ratios of ingredients and discovered that using a higher proportion of dates leads to a sweeter, more satisfying treat. While preparing them, I found that blending the cashews with just enough moisture creates a perfect texture that holds well without falling apart.

One tip I learned while making these bars is to soak the dates in warm water for about 10 minutes. This simple step softens them significantly and makes blending much easier, leading to a smoother consistency in the final product. Now, I always have a batch ready for when the sweet tooth strikes!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Nutty flavor with a rich chocolate undertone
Healthy ingredients that provide sustained energy
No baking required, making it super quick to prepare

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The key players in these Chocolate Date Cashew Bars are the Medjool dates, which provide a natural sweetness and moisture to the bars. Their caramel-like flavor complements the dark cocoa powder, creating a rich chocolate experience without added sugars. In addition, dates are a great source of fiber and essential minerals, making them an excellent choice as a wholesome ingredient in energy snacks.

Cashews not only add creaminess to the texture but also contribute healthy fats and proteins. This combination helps to keep you feeling satiated and energized. If you’re looking for a nut-free alternative, you could replace cashews with sunflower seeds, though the flavor profile will differ slightly. Just make sure to adjust the blending time if needed to achieve the desired consistency.

Preparation Tips

When blending the ingredients, I recommend using a high-speed food processor to ensure an even and sticky consistency. If the mixture seems too dry and crumbly, you can add a teaspoon of warm water one at a time, blending thoroughly after each addition until you achieve the right stickiness. Keep an eye on the texture; it should form a ball without falling apart, which indicates it's ready to be pressed into the pan.

Using parchment paper to line your baking dish is essential for easy removal of the bars. Make sure to leave some overhang, which will help you lift the bars out once they are chilled. Pressing the mixture firmly is crucial; this compactness not only helps the bars hold their shape but also enhances the chewy texture that makes them so enjoyable.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare your Chocolate Date Cashew Bars:

Ingredients

2 cups Medjool dates, pitted
1 cup raw cashews
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup almond butter
1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional)
Pinch of salt

Now that you have your ingredients prepped, let's move on to the steps!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Chocolate Date Cashew Bars:

Blend Ingredients

In a food processor, combine the pitted dates, cashews, cocoa powder, almond butter, shredded coconut, and a pinch of salt. Blend until the mixture is well combined and sticky.

Form the Bars

Transfer the mixture to a lined 8x8-inch baking dish. Press the mixture firmly into the dish, ensuring it's even and compact.

Chill and Cut

Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the bars to set. Once firm, lift the mixture from the dish using the parchment paper and cut it into bars.

Your delicious Chocolate Date Cashew Bars are ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins, such as chia seeds or dried fruits, for extra texture and flavor.

Storage and Shelf Life

These bars are perfect for meal prep and can last in the refrigerator for up to two weeks when stored in an airtight container. If you want to keep them for an extended period, consider freezing them. Wrapped individually or stored in a single layer with parchment paper between them, they can last up to three months in the freezer. Just allow them to thaw for a few minutes at room temperature before enjoying.

To keep the bars from getting too hard in the fridge, you might want to use an airtight container with a piece of parchment paper on top to prevent moisture from making them too sticky or firmer than desired. This little trick can help maintain an ideal chewy texture.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These Chocolate Date Cashew Bars can be enjoyed on their own, but there are plenty of ways to enhance their flavors. Try drizzling them with a bit of melted dark chocolate before chilling for an extra indulgent treat. Alternatively, you can sprinkle nuts or seeds on top for added crunch and nutritional benefits.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can experiment with add-ins like cinnamon, vanilla extract, or even a dash of espresso powder to complement the chocolate flavor. For a tropical twist, consider incorporating dried fruits like apricots or pineapple instead of coconut, which could give a unique flavor and chewiness to the bars.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other nuts instead of cashews?

Yes, you can substitute cashews with almonds or walnuts based on your preference.

→ How long do these bars last?

If stored in an airtight container in the fridge, they can last up to two weeks.

→ Can I freeze these bars?

Absolutely! They freeze well and can be kept for up to three months. Just thaw before enjoying.

→ Are these bars gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat products.