Name: Easy Date Snickers Bars (Healthy Dessert Recipe) Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 20 Medjool Dates (Natural Delights brand recommended); ½ cup creamy peanut butter (Justin’s Brand recommended); ¼ cup chopped peanuts; 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1 tsp avocado oil (or coconut oil); 1 tsp flaky sea salt (Maldon brand recommended), to taste

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

These Easy Date Snickers Bars are a delicious and healthier twist on the classic candy bar. Made with natural Medjool dates, creamy peanut butter, and rich dark chocolate, they’re perfect for a satisfying snack or dessert that feels indulgent but is simple to prepare.

A close-up view of a hand holding a triangular piece of layered chocolate bark. The bark has three visible layers: a bottom dark chocolate base, a middle golden brown caramel layer, and a top dark chocolate layer sprinkled with small chopped nuts. In the background, more pieces of the same chocolate bark are arranged on a white plate, all set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

20 Medjool dates (Natural Delights brand recommended)
½ cup creamy peanut butter (Justin’s brand recommended)
¼ cup chopped peanuts
1 cup dark chocolate chips
1 tsp avocado oil (or coconut oil)
1 tsp flaky sea salt, to taste (Maldon suggested)

Instructions

Step 1: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy clean-up. Slice each date in the middle lengthwise and remove pits if necessary. Arrange the dates on the baking sheet slit side up.
Step 2: Smash the dates with the bottom of a glass cup lightly sprayed with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Press the dates as close together as possible to form an even layer.
Step 3: Warm the peanut butter in the microwave for 20–30 seconds to make spreading easier. Spread a layer of peanut butter evenly over the smashed dates using a spatula.
Step 4: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips and avocado oil. Melt the chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth. Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer and smooth it out with a spatula.
Step 5: Sprinkle the chopped peanuts and flaky sea salt evenly over the chocolate. Refrigerate or freeze for at least 30 minutes to set.
Step 6: Once set, cut into evenly sized pieces. For best texture, store in the fridge or freezer and let bars thaw at least 10 minutes to room temperature before serving.

Tips & Variations

Use crunchy peanut butter for added texture.
Swap dark chocolate chips for semi-sweet if you prefer a sweeter bar.
Try almond butter as a substitute for peanut butter to vary the flavor.
Add a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of vanilla extract to the peanut butter layer for extra depth.

Storage

Store these bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer. They will keep fresh for up to two weeks in the fridge and up to two months in the freezer. Before serving, let them thaw for about 10 minutes to soften and reach a perfect bite.

How to Serve

A white plate holds many irregular square pieces of chocolate bark stacked unevenly. Each piece has two visible layers: a smooth, dark chocolate top sprinkled with small, chopped pale peanut pieces, and a lighter brown layer underneath that looks like caramel or peanut butter showing through the broken edges. The plate is set on a white marbled surface with a beige cloth softly folded in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of dates?

Yes, other soft dates can work, but Medjool dates are preferred for their natural sweetness and soft texture, making them easier to mash and layer.

Is this recipe suitable for people with nut allergies?

This recipe contains peanuts and peanut butter, so it is not suitable for those with nut allergies. You can try substituting with seed butters like sunflower seed butter if needed.