The Best Peanut Butter Chocolate Date Bark 

This take on the viral date bark is made with wholesome ingredients and is (you guessed it) the best! It only takes ten minutes to throw together and is made with 6 simple ingredients that you probably already have on hand. This recipe is vegan, oil-free, refined sugar-free, and gluten-free!

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This easy homemade peanut butter chocolate date bark is the ultimate sweet treat. It's made with 6 simple ingredients and is the perfect healthy treat for all. This take on the viral date bark recipe is made with sweet Medjool dates, creamy peanut butter, rich dark chocolate, and a secret ingredient that takes it to the next level. 

This viral trend blew up on social media, and for good reason. It's a great, simple dessert that only takes about 10 minutes to throw together, and it's full of nutritious ingredients. Dates are highly nutritious and one of my favorite ways to sweeten desserts. I love blending dates up and creating delicious, healthy desserts like my Date Sweetened Brownies or my Vegan Hot Chocolate Ice Cream. However, this peanut butter date bark proves that dates are just as good in their natural form. 

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Chocolate Peanut Butter Date Bark Ingredients:

This easy chocolate date bark recipe is made with wholesome ingredients that you most likely already have on hand or can easily pick up at your local grocery store. 

• Medjool Dates - Medjool dates serve as a natural sweetener in the bark, providing sweetness and a caramel-like flavor without the need for refined sugars. Medjool dates are a good source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels. They also contain various vitamins and minerals, including potassium, magnesium, and vitamin B6, which are essential for overall health.
• Natural Creamy Peanut Butter - Peanut butter adds a creamy texture and nutty flavor to the bark, complementing the sweetness of the dates and chocolate. Peanut butter is rich in healthy fats, protein, and fiber, which help keep you feeling full and satisfied. It also contains vitamins and minerals such as vitamin E, niacin, and magnesium. Additionally, peanut butter is a good source of antioxidants and may help lower the risk of heart disease.
• Vanilla Bean Powder - Vanilla bean powder enhances the flavor of the bark, providing a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor. This is my secret ingredient to making the best date bark. Vanilla bean powder is derived from vanilla beans and contains small amounts of antioxidants. It may also have anti-inflammatory properties and can add a pleasant aroma and flavor to dishes.
• Pure Maple Syrup - Maple syrup adds sweetness to the peanut butter while providing a distinct maple flavor that pairs well with chocolate and peanut butter. Pure maple syrup is a natural sweetener that contains antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals such as manganese and zinc. It has a lower glycemic index compared to refined sugars, meaning it can help prevent spikes in blood sugar levels.
• Plant Based Dark Chocolate Chips - Plant-based chocolate chips add richness and indulgence to the bark, providing a satisfying chocolate flavor and texture. Dark chocolate contains flavonoids, which are antioxidants that may help improve heart health by lowering blood pressure and reducing inflammation. It also contains minerals such as iron, magnesium, and zinc. I've linked my favorite vegan chocolate chips from Wilderness Poets. They are naturally sweetened with coconut sugar and organic.
• Flaky Sea Salt - Flaky sea salt sprinkled on top of the bark provides a contrast to the sweetness, adding a savory note and enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dessert. Sea salt contains minerals such as magnesium, calcium, and potassium, which are essential for electrolyte balance and hydration. It also adds flavor and enhances the taste of sweet and savory dishes.

See the recipe card for quantities.

How To Make This Easy Date Bark Recipe:

This dessert recipe went viral because it's a healthier twist on a Snickers bar that is so easy to make and shareable. 

1. Prepare the Dates:
   • Remove the pits from the Medjool dates and cut them in half lengthwise. If the dates are dry, you can soak them in warm water for about 10 minutes to soften them.
2. Assemble the Date Bark:
   • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the date halves onto the baking sheet in a single layer. They should be slightly overlapping and form a rectangular shape. You may need to use a rolling pin to flatten the dates (I just used my hands). 
3. Mix Peanut Butter Mixture:
   • In a medium bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, pure maple syrup, and vanilla bean powder together. Mix until combined. The mixture will thicken up slightly. If you are using dry peanut butter, I recommend adding a little more maple syrup or even a touch of coconut oil to achieve a spreadable consistency. 
4. Spread The Peanut Butter:
   • Use a knife or spatula to spread a layer of peanut butter on top of the dates, ensuring that the tops of the dates are completely coated in peanut butter. 
5. Melt Chocolate Chips:
   • In a microwave-safe bowl or using a double boiler, melt plant-based chocolate chips until smooth and creamy. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
6. Coat In Chocolate:
   • Pour the melted chocolate on top of the peanut butter. You may need to use a knife or the back of a spoon to spread the chocolate layer over the peanut butter layer. 
7. Sprinkle with Sea Salt:
   • Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the chocolate-coated date bark while the chocolate is still warm. This will add a hint of saltiness that complements the sweetness of the dates and chocolate.
8. Chill in the Refrigerator:
   • Transfer the baking sheet to the refrigerator and chill the date bark for at least 30 minutes or until the chocolate is set and firm.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Once the chocolate is set, remove the date bark from the refrigerator. Cut into pieces with a sharp knife and serve as a delicious and nutritious snack or dessert.

Hint: For best results, make sure that the dates you are using are juicy medjool dates. It's easy for dates to dry out. If your dates are dried out, you won't achieve that perfect chewy texture that this date bark is supposed to have. 

Substitutions:

There are a couple of common substitutions that can be made to this chocolate peanut butter date bark if needed. Here's what I recommend using as substitutes. 

• Nut Butter - If you don't have or can't use peanut butter, almond butter is a great choice. If you need to make this date bark nut-free, I recommend using sunflower seed butter. 
• Sweetener - You can substitute the maple syrup with date syrup, agave nectar, chicory root fiber, etc. Any liquid sweetener will work perfectly. 
• Chocolate - If you need to substitute the dark chocolate chips, you can use carob chips in it's place. Carob is a chocolate-free substitute that tastes and works just like chocolate. 

If you have any questions about a particular substitution not listed, leave a comment, and I'll get back to you as quickly as possible!

Viral Date Bark Recipe Variations:

The best part of this date bark is how easy it is to make new and fun variations each time you make it. Here are some ways to mix it up next time you make it. 

• Crunchy - you can use crunchy peanut butter or add chopped peanuts to the peanut butter layer for a delicious added crunch. The added crunch makes this peanut butter date bark feel like the traditional candy bar. You can also add superfoods such as pumpkin seeds, crunchy almonds, or hemp seeds for a delicious and healthy added crunch.
• Caramel - If you're not a huge fan of peanut butter, you can use raw cashew butter in its place for a delicious caramel-flavored date bark. Raw cashew butter and dates are a match made in heaven. 
• White Chocolate - If you don't love rich chocolate, you can use white chocolate in it's place. Make sure to choose a white chocolate that is dairy-free and refined sugar-free. 

Equipment:

​This date crunch bark is the perfect delicious alternative to homemade Snickers bars. One of the best parts of this date bark is that it requires minimal equipment to make. Here's what I recommend using to make this recipe. 

• Cutting Board and Knife: For slicing the Medjool dates in half, if necessary.
• Mixing Bowl: For mixing the peanut butter, maple syrup, and vanilla bean powder.
• Baking Sheet: To assemble the date bark and place it in the refrigerator for chilling.
• Parchment Paper: To line the baking sheet and prevent the date bark from sticking.
• Microwave-Safe Bowl or Double Boiler: For melting the plant-based chocolate chips. You can use a microwave-safe bowl if melting in the microwave or a double boiler if melting on the stovetop.
• Spoon or Fork: For spreading the creamy peanut butter layer on the date layer.
• Measuring Utensils: Such as measuring cups and spoons to accurately measure the ingredients like maple syrup, vanilla bean powder, and more.

As always, you can find all my go-to equipment on my Amazon storefront or my  shop page.

How To Store This Peanut Butter Chocolate Date Bark:

​The way that you store this peanut butter chocolate date bark is key to ensuring that it stays fresh. Here is how I recommend storing it. 

• Cooling: Allow the date bark to cool completely at room temperature or in the refrigerator until the chocolate is set and firm.
• Cutting: If you've assembled the bark in a large sheet, you can cut it into smaller pieces using a sharp knife.
• Airtight Container: Transfer the date bark pieces to an airtight container or resealable plastic bag.
• Layering: If stacking the date bark pieces, place a sheet of parchment paper between each layer to prevent sticking.
• Refrigeration: Store the container of date bark in the refrigerator. The cold temperature will help maintain the freshness and texture of the bark, especially in warmer climates.
• Labeling: Optionally, label the container with the date of preparation to track its freshness.
• Consumption: Enjoy the date bark within one to two weeks for the best taste and texture. Over time, the bark may become less crispy due to moisture absorption from the refrigerator.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your Chocolate Peanut Butter Date Bark stays fresh and delicious for longer, allowing you to enjoy it as a tasty treat whenever the craving strikes!

Top Tip:

In my opinion, the taste of peanut butter varies greatly by brand. I recommend using a smooth peanut butter that you love. 

Frequently Asked Questions:

Related Chocolate Dessert Recipes:

Looking for more delicious chocolate-based dessert recipes? Make sure to check out some of the other ones on my website. 

If you try this Peanut Butter Chocolate Date Bark Recipe, I’d really love to hear your thoughts in the comments below. I’d also really appreciate a recipe card rating! Make sure to share it on social media and tag @theallnaturalvegan to be featured! Thank you for supporting The All Natural Vegan!

The Best Peanut Butter Chocolate Date Bark

This take on the viral date bark is made with wholesome ingredients and is (you guessed it) the best! It only takes ten minutes to throw together and is made with 6 simple ingredients that you probably already have on hand. This recipe is vegan, oil-free, refined sugar-free, and gluten-free!

5 from 5 votes

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Course Dessert, Snack

Servings 12 people

Equipment

• 1 cutting board
• 1 chefs knife
• 1 Mixing bowls
• 1 Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 24 medjool dates
• ⅔ cup natural peanut butter
• 1-2 tablespoon maple syrup based on your desired sweetness
• ½ teaspoon vanilla bean powder
• 1 cup plant based chocolate chips
• ½ teaspoon flaky salt

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Instructions

 

Prepare the Dates:

• Remove the pits from the Medjool dates and cut them in half lengthwise. If the dates are dry, you can soak them in warm water for about 10 minutes to soften them.

Assemble the Date Bark:

• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the date halves onto the baking sheet ina single layer. They should be slightly overlapping and form a rectangle shape. You may need to use a rolling pin to flatten the dates (I just used my hands).

Mix Peanut Butter Mixture:

• In a medium bowl combine the creamy peanut butter, pure maple syrup, and vanilla bean powder together. Mix until combined. The mixture will thicken up slightly. If you are using a dry peanut butter, I recommend adding a little more maple syrup or even a touch of coconut oil to achieve a spreadable consistency.

Spread The Peanut Butter:

• Use a knife or spatula to spread a layer of peanut butter on top of the dates, ensuring that the tops of the dates are completely coated in peanut butter.

Melt Chocolate Chips:

• In a microwave-safe bowl or using a double boiler, melt plant-based chocolate chips until smooth and creamy. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

Coat In Chocolate:

• Pour the melted chocolate on top of the peanut butter. You may need to use a knife or the back of a spoon to spread the chocolate layer over the peanut butter layer.

Sprinkle with Sea Salt:

• Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the chocolate-coated date bark while the chocolate is still warm. This will add a hint of saltiness that complements the sweetness of the dates and chocolate.

Chill in the Refrigerator:

• Transfer the baking sheet to the refrigerator and chill the date bark for at least 30 minutes or until the chocolate is set and firm.

Serve and Enjoy:

• Once the chocolate is set, remove the date bark from the refrigerator. Cut into pieces with a sharp knife and serve as a delicious and nutritious snack or dessert.

Keyword date bark, easy dessert, medjool dates, snacks, viral recipes

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More Recipes Using Sweet Medjool Dates:

​If you love using natural sweeteners like medjool dates, make sure to check out more of my naturally sweetened desserts.