Imagine a dessert that's not just delicious, but also packed with nutrition and ridiculously easy to make. This Date Crunch Bark is your ticket to a quick, vegan-friendly sweet escape that combines the rich, caramel-like sweetness of Medjool dates with the decadent crunch of chocolate and nuts. Perfect for health-conscious foodies, busy home cooks, and anyone looking to satisfy their sweet tooth without the guilt, this recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Vegan
Serves: 10 pieces
Ingredients
- 1 cup Medjool dates, pitted
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts)
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional)
Instructions
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, ensuring the surface is completely covered and smooth.
- In a food processor, blend the pitted Medjool dates until they form a smooth, sticky paste. If dates are too dry, add a tablespoon of warm water to help them blend more easily.
- Transfer the date paste to a mixing bowl and fold in the almond butter, mixing thoroughly until completely combined and creating a uniform texture.
- Spread the date and almond butter mixture evenly across the parchment-lined baking sheet, creating a thin, rectangular layer approximately 1/4 inch thick.
- Melt the dark chocolate chips using a double boiler or microwave, stirring carefully to prevent burning. If using microwave, heat in 15-second intervals, stirring between each.
- Drizzle the melted chocolate over the date mixture, using a spatula to create a decorative pattern or even coverage.
- Immediately sprinkle chopped nuts and shredded coconut (if using) over the chocolate while it's still warm, ensuring they stick to the surface.
- Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator and chill for approximately 30 minutes until the bark is firm and chocolate has set completely.
- Remove from refrigerator and break or cut into irregular pieces using a sharp knife.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Tips
- Choose Medjool dates that are soft and fresh for the best paste consistency. If they seem dry, a quick soak in warm water can help.
- For a smoother blend, ensure your food processor is clean and dry before processing dates.
- Use high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for maximum flavor and health benefits.
- Feel free to experiment with different nuts like pistachios or pecans for varied texture and taste.
- Make sure to spread the date mixture evenly for uniform thickness and consistent chilling.
- When melting chocolate, use low heat and stir constantly to prevent burning.
- For a more decadent version, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before chilling.
- Store in an airtight container with parchment between layers to maintain freshness and prevent sticking.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
