Decadent Chocolate Peanut Butter Date Bars: A Trio of Perfect Flavors

Unleash the heavenly blend of sweet dates, rich chocolate, and creamy peanut butter in these Chocolate PB Date Bars. This no-bake recipe combines simple, wholesome ingredients into a delicious snack that offers a delightful taste and texture contrast, sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Why You’ll Love This: The natural sweetness of medjool dates pairs wonderfully with the deep flavor of dark chocolate and the richness of peanut butter, creating a snack bar that is not only indulgent but also relatively healthy. These bars are incredibly easy to make, require no baking, and can be customized with an extra layer of peanut butter for those who crave a more intense flavor.

Perfect Occasion: These bars are great for an energy boost during the day, a post-workout snack, or a sweet treat to enjoy after dinner. They’re also ideal for gatherings where you want to offer something sweet yet substantial, or when packing a snack for outdoor activities.

Decoration Tips: For a fancier touch, drizzle melted chocolate and a sprinkle of crushed peanuts over the top layer of peanut butter. If you prefer a hint of sea salt, a light sprinkling can enhance the flavors of the chocolate and peanut butter beautifully.

Ingredients:

• 1 3/4 cups medjool dates, pitted and halved
• 3/4 cup plus 1.5 cups peanut butter, divided (the latter is optional for topping)
• 1 cup dark chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1 tablespoon warm espresso

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Base:
   • In a small saucepan, melt the chocolate chips, 3/4 cup of peanut butter, and butter together over low heat. Stir until smooth.
   • Add the warm espresso to the chocolate mixture and mix until well combined.
2. Assemble the Bars:
   • Line a 9×9 inch square pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
   • Pour the melted chocolate mixture into the pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
   • Arrange the halved dates in a single layer on top of the chocolate layer.
3. Freeze:
   • Place the pan in the freezer and chill for at least 30 minutes, or ideally for one hour, until the mixture is firm.
4. Add Optional Peanut Butter Layer:
   • If desired, once the bars are set, spread an additional 1.5 cups of peanut butter evenly over the top.
5. Serve:
   • Keep the bars in the freezer until ready to serve. Cut into squares and serve cold for a delicious and refreshing treat.

Enjoy these scrumptious Chocolate PB Date Bars, a simple yet luxurious treat that combines three incredible flavors into one delightful snack!