There’s something magical about the combination of chocolate and dates—rich, naturally sweet, and deeply satisfying. These fudgy vegan chocolate date bars with hazelnuts are the kind of dessert you make once and then dream about for weeks. Not only are they indulgent and decadent, they’re also packed with wholesome ingredients that make them a perfect option for guilt-free snacking. Whether you're new to vegan desserts or already knee-deep in baking with dates, this is a recipe that will impress with both flavor and texture. Think of them as a mashup between a date Snickers bar and a chocolate bark, but with far better ingredients and a whole lot more satisfaction.
These vegan date bars are ideal as a mid-day pick-me-up, a healthier dessert, or even a quick post-workout date protein bar. Loaded with good fats from hazelnuts, natural sweetness from dried dates, and complex flavors from cocoa and sea salt, they strike a balance between healthy and indulgent. If you’re a fan of desserts vegan and crave that deep chocolate richness without the dairy or refined sugars, these bars are your new go-to.
Fudgy Vegan Chocolate Date Bars with Hazelnuts
Prep Time 20 minutes mins
Chilling Time 1 hour hr
Total Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine Western
Food Processor or High-Speed Blender Crucial for blending the dates, oats, and hazelnuts into a smooth, sticky base. A regular blender may struggle unless it’s high-powered.
8x8-inch baking pan Ideal for making clean, even bars. You can also use a loaf pan for thicker bars, but the texture may be slightly different.
Parchment paper Helps with easy removal and clean slicing.
Microwave-safe bowl or double boiler For melting the chocolate topping.
Spatula or the back of a spoon To press and spread the mixture evenly.
For the base
- 2 cups packed Medjool dates pitted (about 18–20 dates)
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup raw hazelnuts toasted and skins removed
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons almond butter or peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
For the topping
- 1/2 cup vegan dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate 70% cacao or higher
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1/4 cup chopped hazelnuts for garnish
- Flaky sea salt optional but recommended
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Line your 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. Set aside.
Step 2: Process the Dry Ingredients
In a food processor, add the rolled oats and toasted hazelnuts. Pulse until they resemble a fine meal. This creates the structure of your vegan bar without flour.
Step 3: Add Dates and Flavor
Add the pitted dates, sea salt, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, almond butter, and coconut oil to the processor. Blend until the mixture becomes sticky and holds together when pressed between your fingers. If it feels too dry, add a teaspoon of water at a time until it comes together.
Step 4: Press the Base
Transfer the mixture to your prepared pan. Use a spatula or your fingers to press it down firmly and evenly. Spend some time here—it helps with the final texture.
Step 5: Make the Chocolate Topping
In a microwave-safe bowl or over a double boiler, melt the vegan chocolate with the coconut oil. Stir until smooth and glossy.
Step 6: Layer and Garnish
Pour the melted chocolate over the pressed base. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. Sprinkle with chopped hazelnuts and flaky sea salt for that perfect finish.
Step 7: Chill
Place the pan in the fridge for at least 1 hour, or until the chocolate has set and the base is firm. Once chilled, lift out using the parchment overhang and cut into bars or squares.
Pairings
These vegan date squares are wonderfully versatile and can be paired with a variety of drinks and side snacks to make them even more enjoyable:
- Hot beverages: A robust cup of black coffee, espresso, or even a spiced chai pairs beautifully with the rich chocolate and nutty undertones.
- Plant-based milk: Almond or oat milk complements the natural sweetness of the dates and provides a creamy contrast.
- Fresh fruit: Serve with sliced strawberries, bananas, or raspberries to add freshness.
- Nutty sides: A handful of roasted almonds or walnuts pairs well if you’re using these as part of a dessert platter.
- Dessert board: These bars can elevate any dessert board and sit well alongside other healthy vegan oat bars and dried fruit.
FAQs
1. What type of dates work best in this recipe?
Medjool dates are ideal because they’re soft, sticky, and naturally sweet, making them perfect for no-bake bars. If you’re using Deglet Noor or other drier varieties, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes first.
2. Can I substitute the hazelnuts?
Yes! Almonds, walnuts, or even pecans can be used. Each nut brings a slightly different flavor and texture. If you’re going for that "date Snickers bars" vibe, try peanuts for a classic combo.
3. How long do these bars last?
Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, these bars can last up to 10 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months—perfect for make-ahead healthy snacks.
4. Are these bars suitable for kids?
Absolutely. These date nut bars are sweetened naturally and contain no refined sugar, making them a much better option than most store-bought snacks. Just make sure your child doesn't have nut allergies.
5. Can I add protein to make them into a date protein bar?
Yes! Add 1/4 cup of your favorite vegan protein powder to the base mixture. If it becomes too dry, adjust with a little almond milk or more coconut oil.
