Chocolate Date Cashew Bars

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

Highlighted under: Favorite Baking Favorites

I absolutely love these Chocolate Date Cashew Bars! They are a delightful blend of rich chocolate, natural sweetness from dates, and the satisfying crunch of cashews. I discovered this recipe while on the hunt for a healthier snack option that satisfies my sweet tooth without compromising on flavor. After experimenting with different ratios and ingredients, I finally landed on a combination that not only tastes divine but is also easy to make. Trust me, you won't want to miss out on these delicious treats!

Created by

Isobel Fairfax

Last updated on 2026-01-15T14:33:35.421Z

When I first made these Chocolate Date Cashew Bars, I was amazed at how simple it was to create a delicious and nutritious snack. The combination of Medjool dates and cocoa powder creates a fudge-like texture that satisfies chocolate cravings. I remember sharing these with friends, and they couldn't believe they were made without any refined sugars.

One specific tip I have is to press the mixture firmly into the pan so the bars hold together well once chilled. I've tried variations with different nuts and seeds, but the cashews give it a unique flavor that complements the chocolate beautifully. Enjoying these bars has become a favorite part of my day!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with sweet, chewy dates
Nutty crunch from cashews makes the texture irresistible
No baking required—perfect for quick and easy preparation

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star ingredients in these Chocolate Date Cashew Bars are the Medjool dates and raw cashews. Medjool dates are prized for their natural sweetness and sticky texture, which helps bind the bars together while also providing that caramel-like flavor. If you're in a pinch, you can substitute with other soft date varieties, but the texture may vary slightly. Cashews add a delightful creaminess and are rich in healthy fats, making the bars not just delicious but also nutritious.

Cocoa powder plays a crucial role by enhancing the chocolate flavor without adding any sugar. Opt for high-quality unsweetened cocoa for a deeper, more intense taste. If you'd like to experiment, you can add semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for an added chocolatey bite, though this may change the texture slightly. Since these bars don't require any cooking, they retain all the natural nutrients of their ingredients.

Perfecting the Preparation Method

Achieving the right consistency in your mixture is key. When blending, make sure to stop occasionally and scrape down the sides of your food processor to ensure an even mixture. You're aiming for a dough-like consistency that's sticky enough to hold together when pressed. If your mixture feels too dry, adding a few drops of water can help without altering the flavor significantly. Conversely, if it becomes too wet, sprinkle in some extra cocoa powder or ground nuts to balance it out.

When pressing the mixture into the baking pan, take the time to ensure it’s packed tightly. This not only helps the bars maintain their shape once cut but also creates a more satisfying texture. A flat-bottomed measuring cup or a piece of parchment paper can be used to help compress the mixture evenly, which is especially useful when you're aiming for a smooth, even surface.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious Chocolate Date Cashew Bars:

Ingredients

1 cup Medjool dates, pitted
1 cup raw cashews
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

With these ingredients on hand, you're ready to whip up your bars!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Chocolate Date Cashew Bars:

Blend the Ingredients

In a food processor, combine the pitted dates, cashews, cocoa powder, sea salt, and vanilla extract. Blend until the mixture is sticky and forms a dough-like consistency.

Press the Mixture

Transfer the mixture to an 8x8-inch square baking pan lined with parchment paper. Use your hands or a spatula to firmly press the mixture into the pan, ensuring it's evenly distributed.

Chill and Cut

Place the pan in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to set. Once firm, remove from the pan, cut into bars, and enjoy!

These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can sprinkle some sea salt on top before chilling or mix in some dark chocolate chips into the dough.

Storage Tips

These Chocolate Date Cashew Bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If you want to make a larger batch, consider freezing them. Cut the bars and layer them between parchment paper in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. To enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge for a few hours or at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving.

For best results, keep the bars away from direct sunlight or heat sources, as this can affect their texture and flavor over time. If you notice the bars becoming too hard after refrigeration, allow them to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before eating. This gives them a softer, chewier bite that enhances the overall experience.

Variations and Add-Ins

Feel free to get creative with the add-ins for these bars! For a hint of spice, try incorporating a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of espresso powder. Both can elevate the chocolate flavor and add complexity. For extra nutrition, consider adding seeds, such as chia or flaxseeds—these not only enhance texture but also boost omega-3 fatty acids.

You can also vary the nuts in the recipe. Almonds or pecans work wonderfully as substitutes for cashews, offering unique flavor profiles and textures. Additionally, if you want a hint of sweetness or a different flavor, finely chopped dried fruit like apricots or cranberries can be mixed in, but keep in mind that this may require slight adjustments in the quantity of dates used.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the cashews with another nut?

Yes, you can use almonds, walnuts, or pecans as a substitute for cashews.

→ How long do these bars last?

When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, these bars can last up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these Chocolate Date Cashew Bars?

Absolutely! These bars freeze well. Just wrap them individually and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

→ Are these bars vegan-friendly?

Yes, these Chocolate Date Cashew Bars are entirely vegan and made with plant-based ingredients.