Chocolate Date Nut Squares

Name: Chocolate Date Nut Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup pitted medjool dates, chopped; 1 cup walnuts, chopped; 3/4 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/2 cup rolled oats; 1/4 cup almond butter; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 tsp sea salt

Highlighted under: Simple Baking Favorites

I absolutely love making Chocolate Date Nut Squares for both their irresistible flavor and ease of preparation. With rich chocolate and sweet medjool dates, these squares become a truly delightful treat. Each bite is filled with the crunch of nuts, making them satisfying without feeling heavy. I often prepare these squares for gatherings, as they are always a hit! Plus, they can easily be made ahead of time, allowing me to enjoy the company of friends and family without being stuck in the kitchen.

Created by

Pippa Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-15T16:09:40.177Z

When I first stumbled upon the idea of combining chocolate with dates, I was intrigued. The sweet, chewy dates complement the rich chocolate perfectly, and they keep the squares moist without needing extra butter. I experimented with various nuts and settled on walnuts for their earthy flavor and crunch. The balance in texture between the smooth chocolate and the crunchy nuts creates a delightful contrast.

During one of my baking sessions, I decided to add a bit of sea salt on top right before baking. This little touch elevated the flavors, enhancing the sweetness of the dates while bringing out the chocolate's depth. I've shared these with friends on several occasions, and they can never seem to resist going back for seconds!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor combined with the natural sweetness of dates
Crunchy texture from the nuts adds a satisfying bite
Quick and easy to prepare, making them a perfect snack or dessert

      

Perfecting the Texture

Achieving the right texture in Chocolate Date Nut Squares is crucial for a satisfying bite. The combination of walnuts and oats provides a delightful crunch, while the dates contribute a chewy sweetness. For best results, chop the walnuts into smaller pieces; this allows for more even distribution throughout the mixture. If you prefer a smoother texture, you could pulse the oats slightly in a food processor before mixing them in. This will help create a more cohesive blend that holds together well when baked.

One key aspect of the baking process is not to overbake the squares. Keep an eye on them as they approach the 10-minute mark. You want the top to be just set and starting to turn golden at the edges, while the centers should remain a bit soft. Overbaking can lead to a dryer texture, which detracts from the overall enjoyment of these squares. Watch closely; the moment you spot that golden hue, it's time to take them out!

Ingredient Substitutions

If walnuts aren’t your favorite or if you have a nut allergy, feel free to experiment with other nuts or seeds such as pecans or pumpkin seeds. Each option will impart a unique flavor profile while still giving that satisfying crunch. Additionally, using almond butter can be swapped for cashew or sunflower seed butter, providing either a richer taste or making it allergy-friendly. Just ensure that any substitute maintains a similar consistency to keep the mixture cohesive.

For a different flavor twist, consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the mixture. These warm spices can enhance the sweetness of the dates beautifully. Additionally, if you prefer a more intense chocolate experience, try using semi-sweet or even milk chocolate chips instead of dark chocolate. Just remember that the sweetness will vary, so adjust the amount of dates accordingly if you want to keep the balance just right.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Chocolate Date Nut Squares

1 cup pitted medjool dates, chopped
1 cup walnuts, chopped
3/4 cup dark chocolate chips
1/2 cup rolled oats
1/4 cup almond butter
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 tsp sea salt

Instructions

Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.

Mix the Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine chopped dates, walnuts, chocolate chips, rolled oats, almond butter, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Stir until well combined.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and press it down firmly with a spatula to create an even layer.

Bake the Squares

Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, or until the top is slightly set and golden.

Cool and Cut

Allow the squares to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out and cutting them into squares.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, drizzle some melted chocolate over the cooled squares before serving.

Storage Tips

Once baked and cooled, Chocolate Date Nut Squares can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh longer, consider refrigerating them, where they'll last up to two weeks. Just make sure to allow them to come to room temperature before serving, as this restores their delightful chewy and chocolatey texture.

For even longer storage, these squares freeze beautifully! Cut them into individual portions, wrap them in foil or parchment paper, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy one, simply thaw it at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

Serving Ideas

Chocolate Date Nut Squares are versatile treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve them as an afternoon snack alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful pick-me-up. For a more indulgent dessert, pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to contrast the richness of the squares.

You can also dress them up for special occasions. Drizzle a bit of melted dark chocolate over the top or sprinkle with sea salt before cutting them into squares. This elevates their presentation and adds another layer of flavor. Regardless of how you serve them, these squares are sure to impress your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the walnuts?

Yes, you can use any nuts of your choice, such as almonds or pecans.

→ How should I store the squares?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or in the fridge for longer freshness.

→ Can these be made vegan?

Absolutely! Just ensure the chocolate chips are dairy-free.

→ Will these squares freeze well?

Yes, they freeze well. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.