Snickers Dates Recipe
If you adore the classic combination of chocolate, peanuts, and caramel but want a healthier, vegan twist, you will absolutely love these Snickers Dates. This delightful treat takes sweet, rich medjool dates and stuffs them with creamy peanut butter and crunchy roasted peanuts, then envelops them in smooth, melted chocolate with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. Snickers Dates bring together all the flavors and textures of a traditional Snickers bar, without any added sugar or dairy. They are perfect for a quick snack, a guilt-free dessert, or a crowd-pleasing party treat that’s as simple as it is irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with Snickers Dates is a breeze because the ingredients are pantry-friendly and minimal, yet each plays a crucial role. From the luscious sweetness of medjool dates to the crunchy peanuts and smooth chocolate, every element enhances the final bite.
- 30 medjool dates: These natural caramel-like fruits offer the perfect soft and chewy base that’s naturally sweet.
- 1 cup peanut butter: Creamy and rich, peanut butter fills the dates with a smooth, nutty flavor that balances the sweetness.
- 1/3 cup almond flour: Adds a subtle nuttiness and helps bind the peanut butter mixture for easy stuffing.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the peanut butter filling.
- 1 cup roasted peanuts: Gives satisfying crunch and authentic Snickers bar texture.
- 1 cup chocolate chips (or more as needed): Melts to coat the dates, adding a luscious chocolate shell that seals all the flavors.
- 1-2 tbsp flaky sea salt (for topping): Enhances the sweet and salty contrast that makes this treat irresistible.
How to Make Snickers Dates
Step 1: Prepare the Peanut Butter Filling
Start by combining the peanut butter, almond flour, and vanilla extract in a bowl, mixing until you have a uniform, creamy filling. Then fold in the roasted peanuts, which add that essential crunch that balances the silky peanut butter perfectly.
Step 2: Prep the Dates
Lay out a large piece of parchment paper on a cutting board or plate for easy cleanup. Slice each medjool date lengthwise, keeping the base intact so it can hold the filling like a little pouch. Pit the dates carefully and discard the seeds.
Step 3: Stuff the Dates
Spoon generous dollops of the peanut butter mixture into each date half. Gently press the date closed, allowing that luscious filling to nestle inside every bite.
Step 4: Melt the Chocolate
Place the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second bursts, stirring well between each interval, until the chocolate is smooth and fully melted. This ensures a glossy, luscious coating for the dates.
Step 5: Coat the Dates with Chocolate
Using a fork or dipping tool, carefully dip each stuffed date into the melted chocolate. Tap off the excess chocolate and transfer the coated dates onto your parchment paper. Alternatively, if you’re short on time, you can drizzle the chocolate over the dates for a rustic finish. While the chocolate is still melted, sprinkle flaky sea salt over the top for that classic sweet-and-salty punch.
Step 6: Chill to Set
Refrigerate the dates until the chocolate firms up, typically about 15 to 30 minutes. Once set, your Snickers Dates are ready to delight your taste buds and impress friends and family alike!
How to Serve Snickers Dates
Garnishes
To elevate your Snickers Dates, consider adding extra garnishes before chilling. A light dusting of cocoa powder, a sprinkle of crushed peanuts, or even a few chocolate shavings add visual appeal and extra texture that makes the treats even more special.
Side Dishes
Snickers Dates shine beautifully as a sweet finale alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea. They’re also fabulous paired with fresh fruit platters or a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
These Snickers Dates make for fantastic party platters — arrange them on a decorative tray lined with parchment, or serve them in mini cupcake liners for easy grabbing. You can also skewer several on a decorative stick to create fun “chocolate peanut butter pops” for an interactive treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Snickers Dates in an airtight container or ziplock bag in the refrigerator. They stay fresh for up to 1 to 2 weeks, making them perfect for prepping ahead or enjoying over time as a wholesome sweet nibble.
Freezing
If you want to make a big batch or save some for later, Snickers Dates freeze beautifully. Place them in a single layer on a tray until frozen, then transfer to a sealed freezer bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months, ready to thaw whenever craving strikes.
Reheating
There’s no need to reheat Snickers Dates, as they are perfect eaten cold or at room temperature. If you prefer softer chocolate, simply let them sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before enjoying.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts instead of peanuts?
Absolutely! While peanuts give that classic Snickers flavor, you can substitute almonds, cashews, or even walnuts for a slightly different but just as delicious twist.
Are Snickers Dates gluten-free?
Yes! All the ingredients used are naturally gluten-free, making this treat suitable for anyone avoiding gluten.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
Definitely. This recipe uses dairy-free chocolate chips and no animal products, so it’s perfect for vegans and those with dairy intolerance.
Can I make Snickers Dates sugar-free?
Since medjool dates and peanut butter contain natural sugars, the recipe is naturally sweetened without added sugar. Just be sure to choose sugar-free chocolate chips if you want to keep it entirely free of added sugars.
What’s the best type of chocolate to use?
Use good quality vegan or dairy-free chocolate chips or bars for melting. Dark chocolate with moderate cocoa content works beautifully and pairs perfectly with the sweet and salty filling.
Final Thoughts
These Snickers Dates are not just a recipe; they are a celebration of flavor and texture that you can whip up in under 10 minutes. Whether you’re looking for a healthier snack, a vegan dessert, or simply a fun treat to share, these little goodies hit every mark. I can’t wait for you to try them and see how easy and satisfying a homemade “Snickers” experience can be!
