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No-Bake Chocolate Date Bites

These no-bake bites combine soft Medjool dates and rich cocoa powder into a sticky, fudgy mixture that’s pressed into a pan and chilled until firm. They have a dense, chewy texture with bursts of chocolate and caramel flavor, making for a quick and satisfying treat with minimal effort. Perfect for summer or when you want something sweet without turning on the stove.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 cups Medjool dates pitted, soaked if dry
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder sifted for smoothness
  • 1/4 cup nuts (almonds or cashews) coarsely chopped or pulsed for texture
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch sea salt optional, enhances flavor
  • Optional coconut flakes for texture or topping

Equipment

  • Food Processor
  • Mixing bowl
  • Parchment paper
  • Sharp knife

Method
 

  1. Pit the dates if they have pits, then roughly chop them to make blending easier. Place the chopped dates into your food processor.
  2. Pulse the dates in the processor until they break down into a sticky, caramel-like paste, about 30 seconds, scraping down the sides as needed.
  3. Add the sifted cocoa powder, a tiny pinch of sea salt, and vanilla extract to the processor. Blend until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined, about 20 seconds.
  4. Transfer the mixture to a mixing bowl. Coarsely chop the nuts or pulse them briefly in the processor, then fold them into the chocolate-date mixture for added crunch.
  5. Line a small pan (about 20x20cm) with parchment paper, then scoop the mixture into the pan. Using a spatula or your fingers, press it evenly into the pan, about half an inch thick, making sure to pack it tightly.
  6. If desired, sprinkle extra nuts or cocoa on top, pressing them gently into the surface for a decorative finish.
  7. Place the pan in the fridge and chill for at least 30 minutes until the mixture is firm and easy to cut.
  8. Once chilled, lift out the mixture using the edges of the parchment paper and transfer to a cutting board. Slice into 12-16 squares or rectangles with a sharp knife.
  9. Serve immediately, enjoying the dense, fudgy texture and rich chocolate-caramel flavor, or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.