Chocolate Almond Date Snack Squares

Name: Chocolate Almond Date Snack Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 12 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup Medjool dates, pitted; 1 cup raw almonds; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Homemade Baking Favorites

I can’t get enough of these Chocolate Almond Date Snack Squares! They’re the perfect blend of sweet, nutty, and chocolaty flavors that I love. Each bite feels indulgent yet is packed with wholesome ingredients. I often whip them up for a quick energy boost during the day or as a satisfying after-dinner treat. Best of all, they come together in no time. If you’re looking for a delicious snack that caters to both your sweet tooth and your health goals, these squares are a must-try!

Created by

June Weatherby

Last updated on 2026-01-15T19:25:41.779Z

When I first created this recipe, I was inspired by the desire to have a delicious snack without the guilt. Experimenting with dates and nuts has led me to realize how satisfying nature’s candy can be when paired with rich chocolate. These squares not only fulfill those cravings but also leave me feeling energized and good about what I’ve eaten.

What I love about these squares is their versatility. You can swap the almonds for your favorite nuts or even add a sprinkle of sea salt for a contrasting flavor. They’re wonderfully easy to make, as you simply blend, press, and chill. Trust me, satisfying your sweet tooth has never been this wholesome!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with nutty almonds
No-bake recipe that’s quick and easy to prepare
Perfect for on-the-go snacking or as a healthy dessert

Understanding the Ingredients

These Chocolate Almond Date Snack Squares are made with simple yet powerful ingredients. The Medjool dates not only provide natural sweetness but also act as a binding agent, giving the squares their chewy texture. When selecting dates, choose plump and tender ones; they make blending easier and enhance the overall flavor. If you're short on dates, you can substitute with dried figs or prunes, but be aware that the flavor profile will change slightly, making the squares sweeter or fruitier.

Raw almonds contribute a rich nuttiness and healthy fats essential for energy. To enhance the flavor further, consider toasting the almonds before blending them into the mixture. Toasting can deepen their flavor and add a satisfying crunch to the final product. Just pulse them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until pale golden and fragrant, but allow them to cool before adding them to the mixture.

Perfecting the Texture

Achieving the right consistency is key to the success of these snack squares. After processing the dates and almonds, the mixture should hold together when pressed but not be overly sticky. If the mixture is too crumbly, add additional dates or a teaspoon of water, blending until smooth. If it’s too sticky, adding a bit more cocoa powder can help to balance the moisture while maintaining the chocolate flavor we love.

When forming the squares, make sure to press the mixture down firmly into the baking dish. A rubber spatula or your hands can help you distribute it evenly, ensuring the edges are as compact as the center. This step is crucial as it helps prevent crumbling once the squares are set. After chilling, if they don't hold together well or appear too soft, a quick return to the fridge can help them firm up even more.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

1 cup Medjool dates, pitted
1 cup raw almonds
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Now let's move on to preparing our tasty squares!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your snack squares:

Prepare the Base

In a food processor, combine the pitted dates and raw almonds. Pulse until the mixture starts to come together, resembling a sticky dough.

Add Other Ingredients

Add the cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt. Blend again until fully combined and you have a smooth, thick mixture.

Form the Squares

Line a square baking dish with parchment paper. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the dish, making sure it’s compact.

Chill and Cut

Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set. Once firm, remove from the dish and cut into squares.

Enjoy these delicious squares right away or store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of nut butter or a dash of cinnamon to the mixture before blending.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These snack squares are ideal for make-ahead snacks, as they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. To maintain their freshness, keep them sealed in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking. For longer storage, these squares freeze beautifully! Simply cut them into pieces, layer them with parchment in an airtight container, and freeze for up to three months. You can enjoy them straight from the freezer or allow them to thaw for a few minutes at room temperature.

If you prefer a firmer texture, experiment with chilling times. For denser squares, leave them in the fridge for up to an hour or two, providing adequate time for the mixture to set completely. I often find that the flavors meld beautifully when allowed a little longer in the fridge, resulting in an even more satisfying bite.

Serving Ideas and Variations

These squares lend themselves beautifully to various toppings or additions. Consider drizzling some melted dark chocolate over the top or sprinkling them with sea salt for a sweet-salty combination. You can also roll them in shredded coconut or crushed nuts for extra texture and flavor. If you’d like to boost the nutritional profile, adding some chia seeds or hemp hearts to the mixture can increase the omega-3 fatty acids.

For those with dietary restrictions, you can easily adjust the recipe. Substitute the almonds with sunflower seeds for a nut-free version, or swap the cocoa powder for carob powder for a caffeine-free alternative. Adjusting the sweetness can also cater to various tastes; just remember to keep the balance of wet and dry ingredients in mind when modifying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried fruit other than dates?

Yes, you can experiment with other dried fruits, but the texture may differ.

→ How long can I store these squares?

They can be stored in the fridge for up to a week, or in the freezer for longer.

→ Are these squares gluten-free?

Absolutely! All the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

→ Can I add protein powder to the recipe?

Yes, you can add a scoop of protein powder to enhance the nutritional value.