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These date Snickers are the healthier candy bar hack I never knew I needed – gooey, chocolatey, peanut buttery perfection. They come together in minutes, taste like a total treat, and the kids devoured them. If you’ve got a sweet tooth but want something cleaner, this one’s for you.
You may also love my No Bake Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars for a quick and satisfying snack!
I first stumbled upon this recipe during one of those late-night scrolls through social media, where everyone seemed to be raving about these “healthy Snickers.” Skeptical but intrigued, I gave them a try, and wow – mind blown.
The natural sweetness of Medjool dates combined with creamy peanut butter and a touch of dark chocolate creates a treat that’s indulgent yet wholesome. Now, they’re a staple in our household, especially when the kids are craving something sweet.
They’re quick to make, require no baking, and are a hit with both adults and little ones. For more delightful no-bake options, check out these No Bake Chocolate Filled Oat Bars and Chocolate Covered Banana Bites to keep your snack game strong.
Ingredients needed
Just a few simple ingredients come together to make these chewy, chocolatey date Snickers that taste like your favorite candy bar – only better. Full measurements are listed further down in the recipe card.
- Medjool dates
- Peanut butter: or almond butter
- Whole pecans: or roasted peanuts
- Dark chocolate chips
- Coconut oil
- Flaky sea salt: or crushed peanuts
How to make Date Snickers
Here is the step by step process on how to make these treats
Step 1: Place the Medjool dates on a cutting board and, using a small sharp knife, carefully slice each one lengthwise. Be sure not to cut all the way through.
Step 2: Gently pull the dates open and remove the pits. Set the pitted dates aside so they’re ready to be stuffed.
Step 3: Fill each pitted date with about a teaspoon of creamy peanut butter, using the back of your spoon to smooth it in.
Step 5: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 15-second bursts, stirring between each round, until the chocolate is smooth and fully melted.
Step 4: Gently press a whole pecan (or roasted peanut) into the center of each peanut butter-filled date. Set them aside on a small plate or baking sheet.
Step 6: Dip each stuffed date into the melted chocolate, turning to coat it completely. You can use a spoon to help cover the dates if needed.
Step 7: Use a toothpick to remove the chocolate covered dates from the chocolate and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 8: While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle the tops with the flaky salt or crushed peanuts for that signature date Snickers crunch. Chill in the fridge for 10-15 minutes, or until the chocolate is set.
Tips from my kitchen
- Ensure dates are fresh and soft for easier stuffing and better texture.
- Use natural peanut butter without added sugars or oils for a healthier option.
- Chill the stuffed dates before dipping to help the chocolate set faster.
Substitutions
Want to switch things up? Here are some easy swaps to make this recipe your own:
- Sweetener: Drizzle with honey or maple syrup instead of using chocolate for a different flavor profile.
- Nut butter: Swap peanut butter with almond, cashew, or sunflower seed butter.
- Nuts: Replace pecans with walnuts, almonds, or omit for a nut-free version.
- Chocolate: Use milk chocolate or white chocolate chips instead of dark chocolate.
Variations
Explore these variations to keep things interesting:
- Date Bark: Flatten dates on a baking sheet, spread with peanut butter, sprinkle nuts, and drizzle chocolate over the top.
- Stuffed with Coconut: Add shredded coconut inside the dates before coating with chocolate.
- Spiced: Mix a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder into the peanut butter for a flavor twist.
- Protein Boost: Add a scoop of protein powder to the peanut butter filling for an extra nutritional kick.
Storing and reheating
- Storing: Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Allow frozen date Snickers to thaw at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before enjoying.
Common Questions
Yes, but Medjool dates are preferred for their size and softness.
Absolutely, just ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free.
Absolutely! Prepare them a day or two in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just ensure they’re kept in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Yes, date Snickers freeze well. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
You may also like
- Chocolate Chip Baked Oats
- Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Hearts
- Healthy Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread
- Chocolate Oatmeal Pancakes
- Olympic Village Chocolate Muffins
- Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Muffins
Also, if you try a recipe and you like it, leave me some feedback in the comment section below, and don’t forget to rate it! I would love it if you shared it with friends and family.
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Date Snickers
Ingredients
- 12 large Medjool dates
- ¼ cup peanut butter
- 12 whole pecans
- ⅔ cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil
- 1 tablespoon flaky sea salt, or crushed peanuts
Instructions
- Using a small sharp knife, make a slit on the 12 large Medjool dates to remove the pits. Do not cut all the way through.
- Stuff the dates with about 1 teaspoon of the ¼ cup peanut butter and top with one of the 12 whole pecans (or you can use whole roasted peanuts). Set aside on a plate.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, add the ⅔ cup dark chocolate chips and 1 teaspoon coconut oil. Melt in the microwave at 15-second increments until melted. Mix in between until melted.
- Using a toothpick, place the stuffed dates one at a time into the melted chocolate and fully coat them. You may use a spoon to help with this part.
- Set the coated chocolate dates on a plate lined with parchment paper. Top with 1 tablespoon flaky sea salt or crushed peanuts.
- Place in the fridge to fully set and enjoy.
Notes
- Use almond or cashew butter as a peanut butter alternative.
- Swap pecans with walnuts or omit for a nut-free version.
- Opt for milk or white chocolate chips instead of dark chocolate.
- Add shredded coconut inside dates for extra flavor.
- Mix cinnamon or chili powder into peanut butter for a twist.
- Add protein powder to peanut butter for a nutritional boost.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Thaw frozen date Snickers at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before enjoying.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
