Chocolate Date Cashew Bars

Name: Chocolate Date Cashew Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 2 cups Medjool dates, pitted; 1 cup raw cashews; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1/4 cup maple syrup; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; A pinch of sea salt

Highlighted under: Oven Ideas

I absolutely love making Chocolate Date Cashew Bars for a deliciously sweet and nutritious snack. These bars are simple yet decadent, combining the rich flavors of chocolate with the natural sweetness of dates and the crunch of cashews. Whenever I need a pick-me-up, I turn to this recipe as it’s packed with energy and satisfies my sweet tooth. Plus, they are great for sharing at gatherings or enjoying on-the-go. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll want to keep a batch on hand at all times!

Created by

Verity Langdon

Last updated on 2026-01-15T13:57:35.261Z

When I first attempted making Chocolate Date Cashew Bars, I was pleasantly surprised at how effortless the process was. I paired chewy dates with creamy cashews and rich cocoa powder, blending everything until it reached the perfect consistency. It’s a great mix of textures, and I love browsing through my pantry to discover variations in nuts or add-ins I can experiment with.

One of the best parts of these bars is how customizable they are! I've added everything from coconut flakes to chia seeds, which not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the nutritional profile. So, feel free to get creative and tailor the bars to your preference — that’s what makes this recipe so delightful!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

Ingredient Insights

Using Medjool dates in this recipe is essential due to their rich flavor and sticky texture, which help bind the bars together. Medjool dates are naturally sweeter than other varieties, offering a deep caramel-like taste that perfectly complements the chocolate. If you can't find Medjool dates, you could use Deglet Noor dates, but the texture may be a bit different, and you might need to adjust the sweetness by adding a bit more maple syrup.

Raw cashews contribute a creamy texture and a mild flavor that balances the sweetness of the dates. They also provide healthy fats and protein, making these bars a wholesome snack. You can swap cashews for almonds or walnuts if you're looking to change the nut profile, but remember that these nuts have varying flavor strengths, which may alter the overall taste of the bars.

Techniques for Success

When blending the ingredients in your food processor, it's important to stop occasionally to scrape down the sides. This ensures that all the ingredients are evenly combined for a uniform texture. Blend until the mixture is well-combined and sticky, which usually takes about 1-2 minutes. If the mixture seems too dry and crumbly, adding a touch more maple syrup or a tiny splash of water can help achieve the right consistency.

Pressing the mixture firmly into your lined baking dish is crucial for the bars to hold their shape. A flat spatula or your hands can be used to ensure an even density. The more compact you make it, the better the bars will slice without falling apart. If you're in a hurry, you can place another dish on top and weigh it down with something heavy to expedite the setting process.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you start.

Ingredients

2 cups Medjool dates, pitted
1 cup raw cashews
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1/4 cup maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of sea salt

Ensure everything is well measured for best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to make the bars.

Prepare the Mixture

In a food processor, combine the pitted dates, cashews, cocoa powder, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Blend until the mixture is sticky and holds together when pressed.

Form the Bars

Transfer the mixture to a lined baking dish, pressing it firmly into an even layer. Make sure the mixture is compact to help the bars hold their shape.

Refrigerate

Place the dish in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set. Once firm, lift the bars out of the dish using the parchment paper and cut into squares or rectangles.

Enjoy your homemade bars as a snack or dessert!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before refrigerating, or mix in some dried fruits for added sweetness.

Storage Tips

These Chocolate Date Cashew Bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, making them a convenient option for meal prep. If you'd like to keep them for longer, consider freezing them. Simply cut the bars, wrap them individually in plastic wrap, and store them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months, and you can grab one and let it thaw for an on-the-go snack.

To help maintain the bars' freshness, it's best to separate layers with parchment paper when storing. If they do start to stick together, you can gently pry them apart with a knife. Upon thawing, you may notice that the texture slightly changes; however, they still taste delicious and retain their nutritious qualities.

Serving Suggestions

These bars are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. You can serve them as a pre-workout energy boost or a guilt-free dessert after a meal. For added flavor, consider drizzling each bar with melted dark chocolate or a sprinkle of sea salt right before serving. This enhances the sweet and salty contrast that elevates the overall taste experience.

If you're hosting a gathering, these bars can be cut into smaller bite-sized pieces and arranged on a platter for guests to enjoy. Pairing them with fresh fruit or a side of yogurt can create a delightful snack platter that appeals to a variety of tastes. You might find that these bars are a hit among kids and adults alike, making them a perfect addition to any party.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other nuts instead of cashews?

Absolutely! Almonds, walnuts, or even peanuts would work well in this recipe.

→ How should I store these bars?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

→ Can I make these bars vegan?

Yes! All the ingredients are plant-based, making it a perfect vegan treat.

→ Is it possible to freeze these bars?

Yes, you can freeze the bars for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly!