Chocolate Date Tahini Squares

Name: Chocolate Date Tahini Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 12 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup pitted dates; 1/2 cup tahini; 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/4 cup rolled oats; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; A pinch of sea salt

Highlighted under: Homemade Baking Favorites

I absolutely adore making Chocolate Date Tahini Squares whenever I'm in the mood for a sweet, delightful treat. This recipe combines the rich flavors of chocolate with the nutty depth of tahini and the natural sweetness of dates. It’s not just a dessert; it’s a guilt-free indulgence that keeps me satisfied without the crash that comes with traditional sweets. Plus, the process is straightforward, making it a perfect choice for both seasoned bakers and kitchen novices alike!

Created by

June Weatherby

Last updated on 2026-01-14T05:49:34.691Z

When I first stumbled upon the idea of combining chocolate and tahini, I knew I was onto something special. My kitchen quickly filled with the sweet aroma of melted chocolate as I mixed in the tahini and chopped dates. Trust me when I say that this unique blend creates a dense, fudgy square that you won't want to miss!

Throughout my trials, I discovered that adjusting the amount of tahini slightly enhances the nutty flavor without overwhelming the chocolate. The dates not only sweeten the mix but also add a lovely chewy texture that keeps every bite interesting. Serve these squares chilled, and watch them disappear!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Decadent chocolate flavor with a hint of nuttiness
Naturally sweetened with dates for a healthier treat
Simple ingredients come together for divine results

The Magic of Dates

Dates are the backbone of this recipe, providing natural sweetness and a chewy texture. When blended, they create a smooth base that binds the ingredients together beautifully. Be sure to use fresh, high-quality pitted dates for the best flavor. If you find the dates a bit dry, soak them in warm water for about 10-15 minutes before blending. This will help create a luscious consistency in your squares.

Another essential factor to consider is the variety of dates you choose. Medjool dates, for instance, are larger and have a richer flavor, which enhances the overall taste of your Chocolate Date Tahini Squares. If you’re looking for a lower-sugar option, consider using deglet noor dates as they are less sweet but still offer a pleasant chewiness.

Understanding Tahini's Role

Tahini not only adds a nutty flavor to these squares but also contributes creaminess and healthy fats, making these treats feel indulgent without guilt. When selecting tahini, look for a natural variety that contains just sesame seeds, without added oils or sugars. This ensures the purest flavor and health benefits in your dessert.

You can also experiment with tahini substitutions if desired—sunflower seed butter or almond butter can be used in a pinch, though the flavor profile will shift slightly. Keep in mind that these alternatives may alter the final consistency slightly, so adjust the amount as necessary to maintain the sticky texture that holds the squares together.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once you’ve cut your Chocolate Date Tahini Squares, storing them properly is crucial for maintaining their freshness. I recommend keeping them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they can last for up to two weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze the squares. Just wrap each square individually in parchment paper before placing them in a freezer-safe bag—this prevents them from sticking together.

These squares make a great on-the-go snack or a sweet post-meal treat. For an extra touch, you can drizzle melted chocolate or nut butter over the top before slicing. Garnishing with chopped nuts or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt can add a nice contrast to the sweetness and elevate the presentation of your squares when serving guests.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to whip up your Chocolate Date Tahini Squares:

Ingredients

1 cup pitted dates
1/2 cup tahini
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
1/4 cup rolled oats
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of sea salt

Once you have these ingredients ready, you’re all set to start creating a delicious treat!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your Chocolate Date Tahini Squares:

Prepare the Mixture

In a food processor, combine the pitted dates, tahini, rolled oats, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt. Blend until the mixture is smooth and sticky.

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between until fully melted and smooth.

Combine Chocolate and Date Mixture

Pour the melted chocolate into the date and tahini mixture, mixing until well combined.

Set the Mixture

Line a baking dish with parchment paper. Spread the mixture evenly into the dish, pressing down firmly. Refrigerate for at least an hour until set.

Cut and Serve

Once set, remove the mixture from the dish and cut it into squares. Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Date Tahini Squares!

Enjoy these squares chilled for the best flavor and texture!

Pro Tips

For an extra crunch, consider adding chopped nuts or seeds to the mixture before setting. This will enhance the texture and add an additional layer of flavor.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you find that your mixture is too dry after blending, don’t hesitate to add a teaspoon of water or a bit more tahini. This should help you achieve that sticky consistency essential for shaping your squares. Conversely, if the mix is too wet, a few extra rolled oats can absorb the excess moisture and hold everything together.

When melting the chocolate, it’s crucial to do it in short bursts to avoid scorching. Stir after each interval; the residual heat may continue to melt the chocolate even after being removed from the microwave. If your chocolate seizes up, a small splash of coconut oil can help smooth it out.

Variations to Try

For a bit of crunch and added health benefits, consider folding in some chopped nuts, like almonds or walnuts, into the mixture before pressing it into the dish. This will enhance the texture and provide a delightful contrast to the creamy tahini and smooth chocolate.

You can also customize the flavor by adding a tablespoon of cocoa powder for a more intense chocolate flavor or a pinch of cinnamon for a warm spice note. Both of these additions can add depth while keeping the healthiness of your sweet squares intact.

Scaling the Recipe

If you want to make a larger batch, scaling up these squares is easy! You can double or even triple the ingredients, depending on your crowd. Just ensure your food processor can handle the increased volume, or you may need to work in batches to maintain a smooth consistency.

Conversely, if you want to make a smaller batch, don’t worry about measuring out everything exactly. Just halve the quantities, and you'll still achieve delicious results. The key is to keep the ratios consistent, especially for the sticky ingredients like dates and tahini to maintain the right texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use almond butter instead of tahini?

Yes, almond butter is a delicious alternative that will still provide a great flavor.

→ How do I store the squares?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they can last up to a week.

→ Can I substitute the dark chocolate?

Absolutely! You can use milk chocolate or even a sugar-free chocolate option, depending on your preferences.

→ Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan as it uses plant-based ingredients.