Chocolate Date Tahini Squares

Name: Chocolate Date Tahini Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 12 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup Medjool dates, pitted; 1/2 cup tahini; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/4 cup rolled oats; 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; A pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Everyday Baking Favorites

I love making Chocolate Date Tahini Squares as a quick yet satisfying treat. These squares are not only incredibly indulgent, but they also strike the perfect balance between healthy and delicious. I find that the nutty taste of tahini combined with the natural sweetness of dates creates a unique flavor profile. Plus, they don't require any baking, which makes them an ideal option for a busy day. Whether enjoyed as an afternoon snack or a post-dinner dessert, these squares are sure to please everyone!

Created by

Chloe Baker

Last updated on 2026-01-14T04:09:36.063Z

Making these Chocolate Date Tahini Squares was a delightful experiment in the kitchen. I combined earthiness with sweetness and was amazed by how the tahini enhanced the date's caramel-like flavors. What I learned in this process is that refrigerating them allows the flavors to deepen, making each bite more satisfying.

In testing the consistency, I discovered that adding just a pinch of salt really elevates the overall taste, balancing the sweetness perfectly. It's my go-to tip when I crave a healthier sweet treat without compromising on flavor!

Why You'll Love These Squares
Rich chocolate flavor paired with nutty tahini
No baking required, making it super easy
Nutritious ingredients that satisfy sweet cravings

The Role of Dates

Medjool dates serve as the backbone of these Chocolate Date Tahini Squares, providing natural sweetness and a chewy texture. Their high moisture content helps bind the ingredients together, reducing the need for additional sweeteners or binders. When selecting dates, look for those that are plump and slightly sticky, as this indicates freshness. If since you can’t find Medjool dates, you can substitute with Deglet Noor dates, but you may need to soak them in warm water for 10-15 minutes to soften them up.

To make preparing the mixture easier, chop the dates into smaller pieces before adding them to the food processor. This step ensures they blend smoothly with the other ingredients. If your dates are a bit too firm, microwaving them for 10-15 seconds can soften them up, making them easier to process.

Importance of Tahini

Tahini is a key ingredient in this recipe, adding a rich, nutty flavor and creaminess without dairy. This not only contributes to the overall taste profile but also provides healthy fats and protein, making the squares more nutritious. Be sure to use a tahini that is well-stirred and creamy, as separated or dry tahini can result in a grainy texture. If you're avoiding sesame for dietary reasons, sunflower seed butter can be a great alternative that maintains a similar texture and richness.

When combining tahini with the other ingredients, mix them thoroughly to prevent any clumps. A high-quality food processor will ensure that the mixture becomes a smooth, cohesive blend, which is ideal for achieving that desirable square texture.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

For the best texture and flavor, these squares can be served chilled or at room temperature. If you prefer a firmer square, refrigerating them for longer than the hour recommended in the recipe is perfectly acceptable; just be sure to allow for an extra 10-15 minutes at room temperature before serving to avoid any brittle texture. Not only do they hold up well in the refrigerator, but they can also be stored in the freezer for up to three months, allowing you to enjoy them later.

For a decorative touch or to enhance their flavor, consider topping your squares with crushed nuts, coconut flakes, or a drizzle of melted dark chocolate before refrigerating. These additions not only make the squares visually appealing but also add another layer of texture and flavor.

Ingredients

For the Squares

1 cup Medjool dates, pitted
1/2 cup tahini
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup rolled oats
1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of salt

Mix all the ingredients to create a delicious, gooey mixture.

Instructions

Prepare the Mixture

In a food processor, combine the dates, tahini, cocoa powder, rolled oats, chocolate chips, vanilla extract, and salt. Pulse until a sticky mixture is formed.

Set in a Pan

Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper. Transfer the mixture to the pan and press it down evenly, creating a smooth surface.

Chill and Cut

Refrigerate the pan for at least 1 hour to set. Once firm, lift the square using the parchment paper and cut into desired sizes.

Serve and Enjoy

You can serve them right away or keep them stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Enjoy these delightful squares!

Pro Tips

For an extra crunch, consider folding in some chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts before pressing into the pan.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your mixture appears too dry and crumbly before pressing it into the pan, you can add a tablespoon of water or more tahini to help it bind. Ensure it's blended well before you continue. Conversely, if it's too sticky, adding a little more cocoa powder or oats can help achieve the right consistency.

Should the squares not hold together after chilling, it might be due to insufficient refrigeration. Ensure they've had enough time to set—sometimes leaving them a few extra hours in the fridge can help. You can also press the mixture down more firmly in the pan during assembly to help the ingredients stick better.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe can easily be doubled or halved based on your needs. If you decide to double it, use a larger baking pan, such as a 9x13 inch, to ensure the squares are the right thickness. Just keep an eye on the chilling time, as a thicker layer may take slightly longer to set.

For smaller batches, cutting the ingredients precisely in half works wonders, but do ensure your food processor can still handle the quantity—if it’s too small, consider processing the dates and tahini in batches.

Enjoying Your Squares

These Chocolate Date Tahini Squares are versatile; feel free to customize them with additional flavorings like cinnamon or a pinch of sea salt for an extra punch. You can also experiment with different types of chocolate, such as milk or white chocolate chips, to suit your taste.

They make for a great addition to lunch boxes or a healthy snack option before or after workouts. You can even crumble them over yogurt or smoothie bowls for a delightful crunch and richness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another nut butter instead of tahini?

Yes, you can substitute tahini with almond butter or peanut butter, but the flavor will vary slightly.

→ How do I store these squares?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these squares?

Absolutely! They freeze well and can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

→ What can I use instead of dates?

You can try using dried figs or prunes as a substitute, but they may change the flavor profile.