Chocolate Peanut Butter Date Snack Bars

Name: Chocolate Peanut Butter Date Snack Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 1 cup pitted dates; 1 cup rolled oats; 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter; 1/2 cup chocolate chips; 1/4 cup honey; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Modern Collection

I can hardly contain my excitement when it comes to these Chocolate Peanut Butter Date Snack Bars. They’re the perfect blend of sweet and savory, balanced by the natural sweetness of dates and the rich creaminess of peanut butter. Whether I’m craving a quick snack or looking for a healthy treat to share with friends, these bars have never disappointed. Packed with energy and flavor, they’re my go-to when I need a pick-me-up without any guilt. Plus, they come together in just a matter of minutes!

Created by

Lottie Pennington

Last updated on 2026-01-19T22:33:34.551Z

When I first experimented with making these bars, I was amazed at how simple yet delicious they turned out. I used pitted dates as the base, which gave the bars a healthy sweetness, and added crunchy peanut butter for that luscious texture. The key here is to blend the ingredients just enough to hold together without losing that chunky feel.

I often customize them by adding nuts or seeds to make them even more nutritious. The ease of preparation means that I can whip these up in under 15 minutes, making them an ideal snack to keep on hand for any craving.

        Why You Will Love These Bars
        Rich chocolate flavor combined with creamy peanut butter
Nutritious ingredients that satisfy your sweet tooth
Perfect for pre-workout energy or an afternoon treat

      

Ingredient Insights

The foundation of these bars lies in the use of pitted dates, which not only provide natural sweetness but also contribute to a chewy texture. When choosing dates, look for Medjool dates, as they are plumper and richer in flavor, making the bars more decadent. If you can't find them, Deglet Noor dates work as a substitute, though they may be slightly less sweet and chewy.

Rolled oats play a crucial role in binding the bars and providing a hearty texture. Make sure to use old-fashioned rolled oats rather than instant oats, as they provide better structure. For a gluten-free option, certified gluten-free oats can be used without compromising the bar's integrity.

Perfecting the Texture

When blending the ingredients in a food processor, aim for a consistency that is mostly combined but still slightly chunky. This will ensure that your bars have texture and remain chewy rather than resembling a puree. Keep an eye on the mixture as it blends; you want to stop once you can pinch the mixture together without it crumbling apart.

After transferring the mixture into the lined baking dish, take extra care to press it down firmly. Using a spatula or a flat tool can help create an even layer, which is key to ensuring the bars hold their shape once chilled. The mixture should be smooth on top and compacted well for the best final product.

Ingredients

For the Bars

1 cup pitted dates
1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup chocolate chips
1/4 cup honey
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Mixture

In a food processor, combine the pitted dates, rolled oats, peanut butter, honey, and vanilla extract. Blend until the mixture is well combined but still somewhat chunky.

Incorporate Chocolate Chips

Add the chocolate chips to the mixture and pulse a few times to distribute them evenly without fully blending.

Form the Bars

Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper. Transfer the mixture into the dish, pressing it firmly to create an even layer.

Chill and Cut

Place the dish in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to set. Once firm, cut into bars and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in roasted nuts or a pinch of sea salt to enhance the overall taste. You can also substitute almond butter for peanut butter if you prefer a different nut flavor.

Storage Tips

These Chocolate Peanut Butter Date Snack Bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, making them a convenient snack for busy days. If you prefer a longer shelf life, consider freezing the bars. Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months without losing flavor or texture.

To enjoy the frozen bars, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or on the counter for about 30 minutes before serving. This way, you’ll always have a nutritious snack on hand that requires no preparation.

Serving Suggestions

These bars can be enjoyed as is, but for an extra touch, consider drizzling some melted dark chocolate over the top after cutting them. This not only adds a beautiful presentation but enhances the chocolate flavor as well. You could sprinkle some sea salt on top before the chocolate sets for a sweet-salty contrast that elevates the experience.

For a delightful twist, try adding different mix-ins to the bars like chopped nuts, seeds, or dried fruits. Almonds or walnuts can introduce a crunchy element, while cranberries or apricots bring added sweetness which pairs beautifully with the rich chocolate and peanut butter.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the dates with another sweetener?

You can use dried apricots or raisins, but dates provide the best texture and sweetness.

→ How should I store these bars?

Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I add protein powder to the mixture?

Absolutely! Just replace a portion of the oats with protein powder, but make sure to adjust the moisture content if necessary.

→ Are these bars gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free rolled oats, these bars will be gluten-free.