Name: Dark Chocolate Bars with Cherries and Dates Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 16
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1½ cups medjool date; ½ cup almond butter; 1 tbsp coconut oil; 1 cup brown rice; 1 cup dried cherry; ⅓ cup almond; ¼ cup water; 3 oz dark chocolate; 1 tsp flaky sea salt

Elevate your homemade snack game with these dark chocolate bars featuring a delightful mix of cherries and dates. Perfect for a quick energy boost or a sweet treat, these bars combine rich dark chocolate with nutty and fruity flavors for a satisfying bite.

Photos of Dark Chocolate Bars with Cherries and Dates Recipe

A few ingredients in this recipe might not be staples in your pantry. Make sure to pick up medjool dates, almond butter, and dried cherries at the supermarket. These items are crucial for the chewy texture and rich flavor of the bars.

Ingredients for Dark Chocolate Bars with Cherries and Dates

medjool date: Plump, sweet dates that serve as the natural sweetener and binder for the bars.

almond butter: Adds a creamy, nutty flavor and helps to bind the ingredients together.

coconut oil: Provides a subtle coconut flavor and helps in the blending process.

brown rice: Adds a light, crispy texture to the bars.

dried cherry: Offers a tart and sweet contrast, complementing the dates and chocolate.

almond: Adds crunch and enhances the nutty flavor of the bars.

water: Used to aid in melting the chocolate smoothly.

dark chocolate: The main topping that adds a rich, luxurious layer to the bars.

flaky sea salt: Sprinkled on top to balance the sweetness and elevate the overall flavor.

One reader, Barbabas Welch says:

These dark chocolate bars with cherries and dates are a delightful treat! The combination of sweet dates, tart cherries, and rich dark chocolate is simply irresistible. Easy to make and perfect for satisfying my sweet tooth. Highly recommend!

Barbabas Welch

Techniques Required for Making Dark Chocolate Bars with Cherries and Dates

How to line a pan: Use parchment paper to line an 8-inch square pan to prevent sticking and make it easier to remove the bars. How to use a food processor: Combine dates, almond butter, and coconut oil in a food processor and process until well combined. How to pulse ingredients: Add puffed rice, cherries, and almonds to the food processor and pulse a few times to mix without over-processing. How to melt chocolate using a double boiler: Place a heatproof bowl over simmering water without touching the water, and stir the chocolate until melted and smooth. How to freeze and set: Place the mixture in the freezer to set it before adding the melted chocolate and again after adding the chocolate to ensure it hardens properly.

How To Make Dark Chocolate Bars with Cherries and Dates

Enjoy these fudgy, dark chocolate bars to snack on, and taste a mix of sweetness from the chocolate and sourness from the cherries and dates!

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Freeze Time: 35 minutes

Total: 50 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1½cupsmedjool date,pitted
½cupalmond butter
1tbspcoconut oil,plus 1½ tsp, melted
1cupbrown rice,puffed, or puffed quinoa
1cupdried cherry
⅓cupalmond,chopped
¼cupwater
3ozdark chocolate,coarsely chopped
1tspflaky sea salt

Instructions

Line an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper.
In a food processor, combine the dates, almond butter, and coconut oil. Process for 30 seconds until well combined.
Add the puffed rice, cherries, and almonds and pulse for about 5 to 6 times.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and press into an even layer about ½ inch (1¼ cm) thick.
Freeze for 15 minutes until set.
Meanwhile, pour the water into a small saucepan. Place a heatproof glass or metal bowl over the saucepan, making sure the water is not touching the bottom.
Bring the water to a simmer, then add the chocolate to the warm bowl and let it melt, stirring slowly. Remove the bowl from the heat as soon as the chocolate is melted and smooth.
Pour the melted chocolate over the date and cherry mixture, then spread evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle with flaky salt.
Return the pan to the freezer for another 20 minutes. Once set, cut into 16 bars.
Serve, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 239.05kcal
Fat: 9.36g
Saturated Fat: 2.55g
Trans Fat: 0.00g
Monounsaturated Fat: 4.34g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.65g
Carbohydrates: 37.46g
Fiber: 3.82g
Sugar: 22.49g
Protein: 4.08g
Cholesterol: 0.16mg
Sodium: 121.36mg
Calcium: 60.41mg
Potassium: 334.54mg
Iron: 1.49mg
Vitamin A: 15.68µg
Vitamin C: 1.93mg

Essential Technique Tips for Perfect Dark Chocolate Bars

When melting dark chocolate, ensure that the water in the saucepan is simmering gently and not boiling. Boiling water can cause the chocolate to seize and become grainy. Stir the chocolate slowly and continuously to achieve a smooth, glossy finish.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Dark Chocolate Bars

Prepare ingredients ahead: Measure and prepare all ingredients before starting. This will streamline the process and prevent any delays.

Use a microwave: Melt the dark chocolate in the microwave in 30-second intervals to save time compared to the double boiler method.

Chop efficiently: Use a food processor to quickly chop the dates, cherries, and almonds instead of doing it by hand.

Line the pan quickly: Use pre-cut parchment paper sheets to line the pan faster.

Freeze faster: Place the pan in the coldest part of your freezer to set the mixture more quickly.

Substitute Ingredients For Dark Chocolate Bars with Cherries and Dates Recipe

medjool date - Substitute with dried figs: Dried figs have a similar sweetness and texture, making them a good alternative.
almond butter - Substitute with peanut butter: Peanut butter provides a similar creamy texture and nutty flavor.
coconut oil - Substitute with butter: Butter can provide the same fat content and richness.
brown rice - Substitute with quinoa: Quinoa offers a similar texture and is also a healthy grain option.
dried cherry - Substitute with dried cranberries: Dried cranberries have a similar tartness and chewy texture.
almond - Substitute with walnut: Walnuts provide a similar crunch and nutty flavor.
water - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk can add a subtle nutty flavor and moisture.
dark chocolate - Substitute with semi-sweet chocolate: Semi-sweet chocolate offers a similar depth of flavor with a bit more sweetness.
flaky sea salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt can provide a similar texture and saltiness.

Presentation Ideas for Dark Chocolate Bars with Cherries and Dates

Use a high-quality plate: Select a sleek, modern plate to enhance the visual appeal of the dark chocolate bars.
Cut bars uniformly: Ensure each bar is cut to the same size for a professional look. Aim for clean, sharp edges.
Add a cherry garnish: Place a fresh cherry or a small cluster of dried cherries on top of each bar to highlight the cherry flavor.
Drizzle with extra chocolate: Use a piping bag to drizzle a fine line of melted dark chocolate over the bars for an elegant touch.
Sprinkle with sea salt: Add a final sprinkle of flaky sea salt just before serving to enhance the flavor and add a touch of sophistication.
Serve on a bed of almond crumbs: Create a base of finely crushed almonds on the plate to add texture and visual interest.
Add a touch of gold leaf: For an extra luxurious touch, place a small piece of edible gold leaf on each bar.
Use a contrasting sauce: Serve with a small pool of coconut oil or almond butter sauce on the side for dipping.
Incorporate height: Stack two bars slightly offset to create a sense of height and dimension on the plate.
Finish with a mint leaf: Add a fresh mint leaf on top of each bar for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.

Essential Tools for Making Dark Chocolate Bars

parchment paper: Used to line the pan to prevent the mixture from sticking and to make it easier to remove the bars once set.
8-inch square pan: The container where the mixture will be pressed and set to form the bars.
food processor: Used to combine the dates, almond butter, and coconut oil, and to pulse the puffed rice, cherries, and almonds.
freezer: Used to set the mixture and the chocolate layer.
small saucepan: Used to simmer water for melting the chocolate.
heatproof glass or metal bowl: Placed over the saucepan to melt the chocolate without direct heat.
spatula: Used to spread the melted chocolate evenly over the mixture.
knife: Used to cut the set mixture into bars.
cutting board: Surface for cutting the bars after they have set.

Storing and Freezing Homemade Dark Chocolate Bars

These dark chocolate bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Make sure to separate each bar with a piece of parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.
For longer storage, these bars freeze beautifully. Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To thaw, simply remove the desired number of bars from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before enjoying. The chocolate will soften quickly, while the date and cherry filling will remain slightly firm and chewy.
If you prefer a softer texture, you can also microwave the frozen bars for 10-15 seconds before eating. Just be careful not to overheat them, as the chocolate can melt quickly.
These dark chocolate bars make a great gift or treat to have on hand for unexpected guests. Just remember to store them properly to maintain their delicious flavor and texture.

Interesting Facts About Dark Chocolate, Cherries, and Dates

A random fact about this recipe is that dark chocolate contains antioxidants known as flavonoids, which can help improve heart health by reducing inflammation and lowering blood pressure.

Is Making Dark Chocolate Bars at Home Cost-Effective?

This dark chocolate bars with cherries and dates recipe is moderately cost-effective. The medjool dates, almond butter, and dark chocolate can be pricier, but the overall cost is balanced by the use of common pantry items like coconut oil and puffed rice. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $15-$20 USD. Overall Verdict: 7/10.

Are Dark Chocolate Bars with Cherries and Dates Healthy?

This dark chocolate bar recipe with cherries and dates has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. Let's break it down:

Healthy ingredients:

Medjool dates are a natural sweetener rich in fiber, potassium, and antioxidants
Almond butter provides healthy fats, protein, and vitamin E
Coconut oil contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) that may boost metabolism
Brown rice is a whole grain offering complex carbohydrates and fiber
Dried cherries are packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds
Almonds are a great source of protein, healthy fats, and minerals like magnesium and calcium
Dark chocolate is loaded with antioxidants and may improve heart health when consumed in moderation

Unhealthy aspects:

The recipe is high in calories and fat due to the almond butter, coconut oil, and dark chocolate
Dried cherries and dates are high in natural sugars, which can contribute to blood sugar spikes if consumed in excess

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of almond butter and coconut oil to lower the calorie and fat content
Use unsweetened dried cherries to minimize added sugars
Increase the proportion of brown rice to boost the fiber content and create a more balanced snack
Opt for a higher percentage of dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa) to maximize the antioxidant benefits while reducing sugar content
Cut the bars into smaller portions to encourage mindful snacking and portion control

By incorporating these changes, you can enhance the nutritional value of the dark chocolate bars while still enjoying the delightful combination of flavors and textures. Remember, moderation is key when it comes to indulgent treats like these!

Editor's Thoughts on This Delightful Dark Chocolate Recipe

This recipe is a delightful blend of textures and flavors, combining the natural sweetness of dates and cherries with the rich, smooth taste of dark chocolate. The almond butter and coconut oil add a creamy consistency, while the puffed rice and almonds provide a satisfying crunch. The use of flaky sea salt enhances the overall taste, creating a perfect balance of sweet and savory. Freezing the mixture ensures a firm, easy-to-cut bar, making it a convenient and delicious treat. Overall, it's a well-thought-out recipe that is both nutritious and indulgent.

Enhance Your Dark Chocolate Bars with Cherries and Dates Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad: Elevate your dessert experience with a vibrant Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad. The earthy sweetness of the beets pairs beautifully with the tangy goat cheese, creating a delightful contrast to the rich dark chocolate bars.

Spicy Butternut Squash Soup: Warm up your palate with a bowl of Spicy Butternut Squash Soup. The creamy texture and subtle heat from the spices will complement the sweetness of the dates and the tartness of the cherries in your dessert.

Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad: Add a touch of summer to your meal with a Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad. The caramelized peaches and creamy burrata create a harmonious blend of flavors that will enhance the complexity of your dark chocolate bars.

Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus: For a savory twist, try Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus. The salty prosciutto and tender asparagus provide a delightful contrast to the sweet and rich dessert, making each bite a balanced experience.

Lemon Herb Quinoa: Brighten up your plate with Lemon Herb Quinoa. The zesty lemon and fresh herbs will cleanse your palate and prepare you for the indulgent flavors of the dark chocolate bars with cherries and dates.

Similar Recipes to Dark Chocolate Bars with Cherries and Dates

Almond Butter Chocolate Fudge: Indulge in the creamy richness of almond butter combined with the decadence of dark chocolate. This fudge is perfect for those who crave a sweet treat with a nutty twist. Top it off with a sprinkle of sea salt for that perfect balance of sweet and salty.

Cherry Almond Energy Bites: These no-bake energy bites are packed with the goodness of dried cherries, almonds, and a hint of honey. Perfect for a quick snack or a post-workout boost, these bites are both delicious and nutritious.

Date and Nut Bars: A delightful combination of dates, mixed nuts, and a touch of cinnamon make these bars a perfect snack for any time of the day. They are naturally sweetened and provide a great source of energy.

Chocolate Covered Cherry Truffles: Experience the luxurious taste of dark chocolate enveloping a juicy cherry center. These truffles are a sophisticated treat that will impress any guest. A dusting of cocoa powder adds the finishing touch.

Coconut Date Bliss Balls: Transport yourself to a tropical paradise with these coconut date bliss balls. The natural sweetness of dates combined with the tropical flavor of coconut makes for a delightful and healthy snack.

Appetizer and Main Course Pairings for Dark Chocolate Bars

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your appetizer game with these Stuffed Mushrooms. Imagine plump mushroom caps filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The filling is rich and creamy, perfectly complementing the earthy flavor of the mushrooms. Top each cap with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and bake until golden and bubbly. These bite-sized delights are perfect for any gathering and are sure to impress your guests with their elegant presentation and delicious taste.

Bruschetta: Transport your guests to Italy with this classic Bruschetta. Start with slices of toasted baguette, rubbed with fresh garlic for an extra kick. Top each slice with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, basil, and olive oil. A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness that balances the acidity of the tomatoes. This simple yet flavorful appetizer is perfect for showcasing the freshness of your ingredients and will leave your guests craving more.

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Elevate your dinner with Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken. This dish features succulent chicken breasts marinated in a zesty blend of lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs. The marinade infuses the chicken with vibrant flavors, making each bite a burst of citrusy goodness. Grill the chicken to perfection, achieving a beautiful char and juicy interior. Serve alongside a refreshing cucumber salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal that’s both healthy and satisfying. Perfect for a summer evening or a casual family dinner, this dish is sure to impress.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Delight your taste buds with Stuffed Bell Peppers. These colorful peppers are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, quinoa, and black beans, seasoned with smoked paprika and cumin. The filling is hearty and packed with protein, making it a nutritious option for any meal. Top with shredded cheese and bake until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream for an extra layer of flavor. This dish is perfect for meal prep or a cozy family dinner.

Why trust this Dark Chocolate Bars with Cherries and Dates Recipe:

This recipe combines the natural sweetness of dates and cherries with the rich flavor of dark chocolate. The addition of almond butter and coconut oil ensures a creamy texture, while puffed rice and almonds add a satisfying crunch. The use of flaky sea salt enhances the overall taste, making each bite a delightful experience. This recipe is easy to follow and uses wholesome ingredients, ensuring a delicious and nutritious treat.

Want to share your experience making these delectable dark chocolate bars with cherries and dates? Head over to the Recipe Sharing section of our forum and let us know how they turned out!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of nut butter instead of almond butter?

Absolutely! You can use peanut butter, cashew butter, or any other nut butter you prefer. Just keep in mind that it might slightly alter the flavor.

How long do these bars last, and how should I store them?

These bars can last up to two weeks if stored in an airtight container in the fridge. You can also freeze them for up to three months.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried cherries?

Fresh cherries would add too much moisture and could make the bars soggy. Stick with dried cherries for the best texture.

What can I use instead of puffed rice?

You can substitute puffed rice with puffed quinoa or even crushed rice cereal if you prefer a different texture.

Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?

Yes, just make sure to use vegan dark chocolate and check that your other ingredients, like almond butter and coconut oil, are also vegan-friendly.