Chocolate Date Nut Squares

Name: Chocolate Date Nut Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup pitted dates, chopped; 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped; 1/2 cup almonds, chopped; 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 tsp sea salt

Highlighted under: Easy Baking Collection

I absolutely love making Chocolate Date Nut Squares as they perfectly blend sweetness and richness, creating a satisfying treat that everyone enjoys. The combination of dark chocolate, chewy dates, and crunchy nuts delivers an indulgent experience that feels both decadent and wholesome. Whenever I prepare these squares, my kitchen fills with delicious aromas, drawing in friends and family. This recipe is easy to follow and makes for an impressive dessert at gatherings or a delightful snack throughout the week.

Created by

Isabella Clark

Last updated on 2026-01-15T18:37:35.483Z

When I first discovered the combination of chocolate and dates, it was a revelation. I decided to experiment with these flavors by adding nuts for texture, and the result was beyond my expectations! The dates provide natural sweetness, while the chocolate adds a depth of flavor that truly enhances the overall experience.

One tip I found essential is to use high-quality dark chocolate, as it dramatically influences the taste of these squares. I also love adding a pinch of sea salt on top right before cutting them into squares, which elevates the flavors even more.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with sweet dates
Nutty crunch that complements the chewy texture
No baking required; quick and easy to prepare

The Role of Dates and Nuts

Pitted dates serve as the natural sweetener in these Chocolate Date Nut Squares, imparting a rich caramel-like flavor that's both satisfying and healthful. They not only add sweetness but also contribute to the chewy texture that contrasts beautifully with the crunch of the nuts. Make sure to chop the dates finely to ensure even distribution throughout the mixture, which enhances both texture and taste in every bite.

The combination of walnuts and almonds not only provides a varied nutty flavor but also diverse health benefits. Walnuts add omega-3 fatty acids and a hint of bitterness that balances the sweetness of the dates, while almonds introduce a satisfying crunch and a subtle sweetness. Feel free to experiment with other nuts like pecans or cashews if you're looking to customize the flavor profile further or use what you have on hand.

Melting Chocolate Tips

When melting chocolate chips, it's crucial to use a microwave-safe bowl to avoid any mishaps. Microwave the chocolate in 30-second intervals to prevent overheating, stopping to stir each time. This technique helps prevent the chocolate from seizing, which can happen if overheated. Look for a smooth, glossy consistency without any lumps for the best incorporation into the mixture.

If you find that your chocolate has seized, don’t worry! You can add a small amount of vegetable oil or coconut oil to the bowl and stir until it becomes smooth again. This not only saves the melted chocolate but also can slightly alter the final texture of your squares, giving them a softer bite.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious squares:

Main Ingredients

1 cup pitted dates, chopped
1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
1/2 cup almonds, chopped
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 tsp sea salt

Once you have all the ingredients ready, you can start preparing your squares!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect Chocolate Date Nut Squares:

Prepare the Base

In a medium bowl, combine chopped dates, walnuts, almonds, cocoa powder, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and sea salt. Mix well until everything is thoroughly combined.

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips in intervals of 30 seconds, stirring in between, until smooth. Let it cool slightly before incorporating into the date mixture.

Combine Everything

Pour the melted chocolate into the bowl with the date and nut mixture. Fold gently until everything is evenly coated and mixed.

Set the Mixture

Line a square baking dish with parchment paper. Transfer the mixture into the dish, pressing it down firmly to create an even layer. Refrigerate for about 1 hour until set.

Cut and Serve

Once set, remove the mixture from the dish using the parchment paper, and cut into squares. Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Date Nut Squares!

These squares can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding shredded coconut or dried fruit to the mixture. Experimenting with different nuts can also create unique flavor profiles!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Chocolate Date Nut Squares store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, making them a perfect make-ahead snack. If you want to enjoy them for longer, you can freeze the squares. Just ensure they are cut into portions and wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then placed in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months; simply let them thaw in the refrigerator before enjoying.

When ready to serve, you can enhance the chocolate squares by drizzling additional melted chocolate or sprinkling sea salt on top. This not only adds aesthetic appeal but also elevates the flavor, making them an even more indulgent treat during gatherings or special occasions.

Variations to Explore

Feel free to get creative with this recipe by adding other ingredients that you love. For example, incorporating a handful of dried fruit like cranberries or cherries can introduce a tart contrast that complements the sweetness of the dates. Chia seeds can also be added for an extra boost of nutrition and texture, as they become slightly gelatinous when mixed with the ingredients.

If you're looking to reduce the sweetness, you can cut back on honey or maple syrup by up to half without sacrificing texture. This allows the natural sweetness of the dates to shine through while still maintaining a suitable binding consistency for the squares. Don't shy away from personalizing this recipe to suit your taste preferences!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of nuts?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute walnuts and almonds with your favorite nuts, such as pecans or hazelnuts.

→ How long can I store the Chocolate Date Nut Squares?

They can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, but they might not last that long!

→ Can I make these squares vegan?

Yes! Just ensure that you use maple syrup instead of honey and check that your chocolate is dairy-free.

→ What’s the best way to serve these squares?

They are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat.