As someone who grew up in an ingredient household with a family member with a gluten restriction, our sweet treats were often homemade. Every Tuesday was “baking day,” which involved my mom and I making desserts from scratch to share and enjoy. Standing on a kitchen chair so I could reach the counter, I would assist my mom in the baking process and end up elbow-deep in batter and gluten-free flour.
Over the years, my family has tried our hand at many a dessert, ranging from classics to more creative dishes. This oven- and mess-free date bark is a newer development in my family’s repertoire, but it has recently become a staple in our from-scratch creations.
This date bark can be made at any time of year, whether during a short study break during the semester or as a way to pass the time on a boring, hot summer day. With only four ingredients and a freezer required, it can be done from the comfort of your childhood kitchen, off-Grounds apartment or even a dorm room. The healthier Snickers alternative is sweet and crisp, with authentic ingredients and an easy prep process. The sticky dates have a caramel-like consistency, combining perfectly with the rich chocolate and peanut butter flavors to create an unforgettable snack that’s packed with benefits.
From a girl who loves a sweet treat after any meal but is also a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is perfectly simple and forgiving. While suggested ingredient amounts are listed below, they can be adjusted according to preference.
No-bake date bark
Prep time: 10 minutes
Freeze time: 20 minutes
Yields: 4 bars
Ingredients:
- 8 pitted medjool dates
- 2 tablespoons smooth peanut butter
- ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips — I use sugar-free, but regular works as well
- 4 teaspoons shelled peanuts
Instructions:
- Line a metal tray with parchment paper and place all eight dates on the tray, in pairs, creating four bars. Flatten the dates with a fork or spatula so that they are around ¼ inch thick.
- Spread one-fourth of the peanut butter — about 1 1/2 teaspoons — on each date until smooth.
- Chop peanuts into small pieces — about 1/4 of the size of a whole one — with a knife, or place them in a plastic bag and use a heavy object to crush them.
- Pour the chocolate chips into a microwave safe bowl. Microwave in increments of 15 seconds for about three rounds or until smooth, stirring the chips between each round.
- Pour a layer of melted chocolate on dates and spread to create a layer on top. Quickly sprinkle one teaspoon of the peanuts on top of each bar before the chocolate hardens.
- Place the tray into the freezer. Wait at least 20 minutes for the treats to harden before eating. The longer you wait, the crunchier they will be! Serve immediately after removing the bars from the freezer.
Whether you eat these bars with friends, as a solo study snack or after family dinner, they are a delicious and nutritious addition to any day. Happy snacking!
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