May 18, 2024, Updated Jun 12, 2024 I’m not usually a bandwagon jumper but often TikTok recipes become a viral trend because they’re so easy AND so good. That’s the case with this easy chocolate date bark. It’s a delicious treat that’s as good for you as any energy bar, made with just a few wholesome ingredients. Chewy medjool dates have a caramel-like flavor that makes the end result taste like Snickers. My kids and I are all totally crazy for it!
Why You’ll Love This Easy Date Bark Recipe
Here’s why I’m now HOOKED on this viral recipe:
So good: Layers of peanut butter, chewy dates, crunchy peanuts, rich chocolate and a sprinkle of flaky salt make an outrageously tasty treat. Indulgent yet nutritious: Dates are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber and yet, it’s giving “candy bar” goodness. But it’s a healthier alternative for satisfying a sweet tooth to a traditional candy bar. No bake, low fuss: I love easy dessert recipes that are low mess, low equipment and doesn’t need any oven time.
Tools to Grab
Gather up these items in the kitchen:
Viral Chocolate Date Bark Ingredients
Sweet Medjool dates: These are ideal for their rich, caramel-like sweetness and soft, chewy texture. They’re like nature’s tootsie roll! Make sure to pit them before getting started. Creamy peanut butter: I like to choose a natural smooth peanut butter without added sugars or oils. The layer of peanut butter adds an irresistible creamy texture to this delectable treat. You can swap in crunchy peanut butter for more of a date crunch bark. Chocolate chips: Choose your favorite type of chocolate chips. This recipe works well with semi-sweet (best if maximum sweetness is what you’re after), milk, and dark chocolate. Once it sets, it will help bind all the ingredients together Roasted, salted peanuts: Crunchy nuts add a crunchy texture and a savory-salty contrast to the sweetness of the dates and chocolate. Flaky sea salt: Looks and tastes incredible. You can leave this out if you prefer.
Substitutions and Variations
Here’s what you can swap out and adjust in this recipe:
Peanut butter: Don’t have peanut butter on hand? You can substitute it with any nut butter – almond butter or cashew butter. Seed butters work, too, like tahini or sunflower seed butter. Chocolate chips: If you prefer not to use chocolate chips, you can chop up a chocolate bar instead. You can also use white chocolate chips or chunks too! Roasted peanuts: Any other roasted nuts like crunchy almonds, cashews, pumpkin seeds or hazelnuts can be swapped for crushed peanuts. If you prefer unsalted nuts, feel free to use them and adjust the amount of salt. Fruit and nut bark: Add dried fruits like cranberries, cherries, or apricots, along with a variety of nuts such as pistachios, walnuts, and pecans. Coconut date bark: Sprinkle shredded coconut over the chocolate layer before it sets.
Baking tray: Grab a small baking sheet make the bark on. Parchment paper: A piece of parchment paper keeps the chocolate bark from sticking to the pan. Measuring cup or glass: I use the bottom of a cup to press the top of the dates flat. You can alternatively use a rolling pin to flatten the open side, just make sure to add another layer of parchment paper. Microwave safe bowl: For melting the chocolate in. Spoon or spatula: To stir the chocolate and spread it over the dates with. Knife: You’re going to need a sharp knife for the easy and neat cutting.
Make Ahead and Storage
You can make the date bark in advance and store it in an airtight container until you’re ready to enjoy it.
Prepare the dates
Start by pitting and halving the Medjool dates. Next, spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover this with a second sheet of parchment paper. Use a glass or measuring cup to press the bark flat.
Add the peanut butter layer
Warm the peanut butter until it’s easy to drizzle. Pour it evenly over the chopped dates.
Add the chocolate layer and smooth
Pour the chocolate chips into a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave it on medium power, stirring every 30 second intervals, until smooth. Drizzle the melted chocolate on top of the peanut butter and date layers. Spread it out with a spoon. Finally, give the pan a few sharp back-and-forth shakes to smooth the surface.
Top with peanuts
Sprinkle the peanuts on top of the chocolate while it’s still warm. Finish by sprinkling the flaky sea salt over everything.
Chill the date bark
Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator and chill until the bark is firm about 1-2 hours. Once set, break or cut into pieces and enjoy!
Storage
If you plan to consume the date bark within a few days, you can store it at room temperature in an airtight container. Make sure the container is sealed properly to maintain freshness. For longer storage, especially in warmer climates, store your date bark in the fridge. Place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out or absorbing odors from the fridge. It should last for up to 1-2 weeks in the refrigerator.
Freezing
If you want to make it well ahead of time, you can freeze your healthy sweet treat. Once it’s set and completely cooled, cut it into pieces and layer them between parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Following these storage tips, you can enjoy your homemade Date Bark whenever you crave a delicious and satisfying snack.
Final Notes, Pro Tips + Science-Based Secrets
Check out my notes, tips, and tricks as a food scientist (and advocate/lover of this viral date bark recipe).
Don’t Forget to Line the Pan: Forgetting to line the baking pan with parchment paper can make it difficult to remove the bark once it’s set. Always line the pan to ensure easy removal and clean-up. Quality ingredients matter: Fresh, plump dates and good-quality chocolate will significantly enhance the flavor and texture of your Date Bark. Soften dates: If your dates are slightly dry, soften them by soaking them in hot water for a few minutes before chopping. This will make them easier to work with and ensure a smoother texture in the bark. If you do this, dry them well before working with the recipe. Use a double boiler: If you don’t have a microwave, melt the chocolate in a double boiler.
Healthy Frozen Treat Recipes to Try Next
Peanut Butter Frozen Yogurt Bites Strawberry Frozen Yogurt Bites 3-Ingredient Banana Ice Cream Frozen Yogurt Bark Banana Bites (Peanut Butter and Chocolate) Healthy Homemade Fudgesicles
