Chocolate Date Nut Squares

Name: Chocolate Date Nut Squares
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup Medjool dates, pitted; 1 cup walnuts, chopped; 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/4 tsp salt

Highlighted under: Sweet Inspiration

When I first tried making Chocolate Date Nut Squares, I was amazed at how simple yet indulgent they turned out. Combining the rich flavor of chocolate with the natural sweetness of dates was a game changer for my dessert repertoire. I love how these squares maintain a chewy texture thanks to the dates, while the nuts add a satisfying crunch. This recipe has quickly become a favorite for entertaining guests or indulging myself on a cozy afternoon. Give it a try, and you'll understand why it's so adored!

Created by

Isadora Pembroke

Last updated on 2026-01-15T14:18:42.167Z

Making Chocolate Date Nut Squares was an experiment that turned into a delightful treat. I had leftover dates and nuts that needed to be used, and I thought, why not combine them with chocolate? The process was incredibly straightforward—I mixed everything, pressed it into a pan, and let it chill. The moment I cut into them and took my first bite, I knew I had created something special. The mix of chewy dates and crunchy nuts is simply irresistible!

One tip that I learned during my trials is to let the squares chill properly. This not only helps them set firmly but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. I’ve also experimented with different nuts, and each variation offers a new twist that keeps this recipe fresh each time I make it. Enjoying these bars with a cup of tea is one of my new favorite rituals.

Why You'll Love These Squares
Decadent chocolate paired with natural sweetness of dates
Nuts add a delightful crunch and healthy fats
Quick and easy to prepare with no baking required

The Role of Dates in Delightful Squares

Medjool dates are the star ingredient in these Chocolate Date Nut Squares, providing moisture and natural sweetness that is unparalleled. Their sticky texture binds the ingredients together, ensuring that each square holds up well. When working with dates, make sure they are soft and fresh; if they seem dry, soaking them in warm water for about 10 minutes can help revive their texture. This simple adjustment can make a significant difference in the overall consistency and flavor of your squares.

Dates also bring a wealth of nutrients to the recipe, including fiber, potassium, and antioxidants. This means that while you're indulging in a sweet treat, you're also nourishing your body. If you're looking to experiment, consider swapping half of the dates for another dried fruit like figs or apricots to add a different flavor profile while still maintaining that essential chewiness.

Nuts: The Crunchy Complement

Chopped walnuts not only contribute to the crunch in these squares but also provide healthy fats and protein. Their earthiness balances the sweetness of the dates, creating a harmonious flavor. If you're not a fan of walnuts or have nut allergies, feel free to substitute them with pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for a similar texture without compromising the integrity of the dish. Just be sure to chop them coarsely for the best results, allowing them to mix seamlessly into the chocolate date mixture.

When toasting the nuts can enhance their flavor significantly. If you decide to toast the walnuts, do so in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are fragrant and slightly golden. This added step elevates the overall taste and brings out the natural oils, which enhances the richness of the chocolate.

Chilling and Storage Tips

Chilling the mixture for at least 15 minutes allows the squares to firm up, making cutting easier and cleaner. I recommend covering the pan with plastic wrap to prevent any odors from permeating while it sets in the refrigerator. If you’re in a rush, a 10-minute chill may suffice, but for best results, aim for a full 30 minutes to really ensure that the squares hold their shape when sliced.

These Chocolate Date Nut Squares can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer preservation, consider freezing them. Simply cut the squares and layer parchment paper between them before placing them in a freezer-safe container. You can thaw them in the refrigerator overnight when you're ready to enjoy. This makes them an excellent make-ahead treat for gatherings or just a personal indulgence during the week.

Ingredients

For the Squares

1 cup Medjool dates, pitted
1 cup walnuts, chopped
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 tsp salt

These ingredients come together to create a rich, satisfying treat that you won't be able to resist!

Instructions

Prepare the Mixture

In a food processor, combine the pitted dates, walnuts, dark chocolate chips, cocoa powder, and salt. Pulse until the mixture becomes sticky and well combined. You may need to scrape down the sides a couple of times to ensure an even consistency.

Shape the Squares

Line an 8x8 inch square pan with parchment paper. Transfer the mixture into the pan and press it down firmly to create an even layer. Use a spatula or your hands to pack it tightly.

Chill and Cut

Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to set. Once firm, remove from the pan, cut into squares, and serve. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Date Nut Squares!

Pro Tips

For an extra boost of flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the mixture before blending. You can also swap out the walnuts for your favorite nut or seed for a different texture.

Serving Suggestions

These squares can be enjoyed on their own or dressed up for special occasions. A light dusting of powdered sugar before serving adds a beautiful contrast to the chocolate's rich color. Pairing them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can elevate your dessert game for dinner parties or holiday gatherings. Additionally, serving the squares alongside fresh fruit provides a wonderful textural contrast and balances the sweetness.

If you’d prefer a different flavor twist, try drizzling melted dark chocolate over the squares for a decadent finish. This not only enhances their rich chocolate flavor but also presents an appealing visual element. Just ensure the chocolate has cooled slightly before drizzling to maintain a smooth finish.

Variations to Explore

While this recipe is delicious as is, there are plenty of variations to experiment with. For a hint of spice, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or even a dash of cayenne pepper to the mixture, which offers a delightful contrast to the sweet chocolate and dates. Alternatively, you can fold in some shredded coconut for a tropical twist or a few tablespoons of nut butter to deepen the richness.

If you're looking to make these squares a bit more nutritious, adding some chia seeds or hemp seeds can provide an additional health boost. Not only do they add extra nutrients, but they also help create a slightly different texture that complements the chewiness of the dates.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, these squares are naturally vegan as the main ingredients are dates, nuts, and chocolate.

→ How should I store the squares?

Store the squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I use other nuts besides walnuts?

Absolutely! You can use almonds, pecans, or any nut you prefer.

→ Is there a way to reduce the sweetness?

You can reduce the number of dates used or switch to semi-sweet chocolate chips instead of dark chocolate.