Chocolate Almond Date Snack Squares

Name: Chocolate Almond Date Snack Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 16 snack squares
Ingredients: 1 cup medjool dates, pitted; 1 cup almonds; 1/2 cup almond butter; 1/4 cup cocoa powder; 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; A pinch of sea salt

Highlighted under: Fresh Planning

I love making Chocolate Almond Date Snack Squares when I need a quick and healthy treat. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrition. The dates provide natural sweetness, while the chocolate and almonds create a satisfying snack that feels indulgent without the guilt. We often keep these squares in the fridge for when cravings strike, making them a go-to option for myself and my family. They’re perfect for a midday pick-me-up or a post-workout energy boost!

Created by

Fern Holloway

Last updated on 2026-01-15T19:49:44.113Z

When I first experimented with these Chocolate Almond Date Snack Squares, I was shocked by how just a few wholesome ingredients could create such a delicious snack. The combination of medjool dates and almond butter creates a rich base, while the chocolate adds a touch of decadence. I found that letting the mixture chill in the fridge for a bit helps the flavors meld beautifully!

One tip I have for making these squares extra special is to use high-quality dark chocolate. Not only does it enhance the overall flavor, but it also provides a deeper richness that complements the sweetness of the dates. I can't tell you how satisfying it is to bite into these and feel good about what I'm eating.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with the natural sweetness of dates
Crunchy almond texture that adds great mouthfeel
Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prepping

Flavor and Texture Harmony

The balance of flavors in these Chocolate Almond Date Snack Squares is one of the most enticing aspects of the recipe. The medjool dates not only lend natural sweetness but also contribute a chewy texture that contrasts beautifully with the crunch of almonds. When crafted correctly, the squares should have a rich, chocolatey taste that does not overpower the subtle nutty notes. Maintaining the right ratio of dates to nuts is crucial; too many dates can make the squares overly sweet and sticky.

Incorporating almond butter enhances the mouthfeel, adding creaminess to the mixture. Make sure to choose a high-quality almond butter without added sugars or stabilizers to keep the snack wholesome. The cocoa powder deepens the chocolate flavor, but be wary of using Dutch-processed cocoa, which can yield a milder taste; for this recipe, natural cocoa powder is recommended for its acidity and robust flavor.

Meal Prep and Storage

These snack squares are excellent for meal prep. After cutting them into squares, store them in an airtight container lined with parchment paper to keep them from sticking together. They can last up to a week in the refrigerator, making them a perfect grab-and-go snack during busy weekdays. If you'd like to enjoy them longer, consider freezing them; just layer parchment between squares and store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be taken directly from the freezer and enjoyed as a chilled treat.

For portion control, you could also modify the size of the squares. Instead of cutting them into traditional squares, try shaping them into smaller bite-sized pieces. This makes them perfect for sharing or as a topping on yogurt or smoothie bowls. You can even roll them into balls instead, providing a different presentation and texture that kids might find appealing.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for these delicious squares:

Ingredients

1 cup medjool dates, pitted
1 cup almonds
1/2 cup almond butter
1/4 cup cocoa powder
1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of sea salt

Make sure to chop the almonds if you prefer a chunkier texture!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your snack squares:

Blend the base

In a food processor, combine the pitted medjool dates, almonds, almond butter, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Blend until the mixture is sticky and well combined.

Incorporate chocolate

Add the dark chocolate chips to the mixture and pulse a few times until they are evenly distributed.

Shape and chill

Transfer the mixture to a lined square pan and press it down evenly. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the squares to firm up.

Cut into squares

Once chilled, remove from the pan, and cut into squares. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge.

Your delicious Chocolate Almond Date Snack Squares are now ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize by adding your favorite nuts or seeds for added texture.

Ingredient Swaps

If you want to change things up, there are several substitutions you can make in this recipe. For instance, if you're allergic to almonds, cashews or walnuts can be used instead, providing a different flavor profile while still maintaining a nutty crunch. Similarly, you can swap the almond butter for peanut butter or sunflower seed butter, keeping the texture intact while adding a distinct twist to the flavor.

Whichever nut or seed butter you use, ensure it's unsweetened and smooth for easier blending. Additionally, if you're looking to make these squares sugar-free, consider using dark chocolate chips sweetened with stevia or erythritol. This way, you can still enjoy the chocolate flavor without the added sugar.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your mixture seems too dry and doesn’t hold together well, it's likely that you need to add a tablespoon or two of warm water. This will help bind the ingredients more effectively. Alternatively, you can add another splash of almond butter to boost the stickiness. Conversely, if the mixture is too wet, consider adding a little extra cocoa powder or ground oats to absorb the moisture and create the right consistency.

Lastly, be mindful of the chilling time. If the snack squares are not firming up after 30 minutes in the fridge, give them an additional 15-20 minutes. If they're still too soft, it could be that the mixing didn't fully combine the ingredients, or the temperature in your fridge is warmer than average. Adjusting for these factors can greatly improve the final product.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute almonds with another nut?

Yes! You can use walnuts, cashews, or even pecans as alternatives.

→ How long can I store these snack squares?

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

→ Can I use any type of dates?

Medjool dates are preferred for their softness and sweetness, but you can use any variety you have on hand.

→ What’s the best way to cut the squares?

Use a sharp knife and cut them while they are still slightly chilled for clean edges.