Always craving something sweet? Same! If you want to curb your refined sugar intake, date bark will help settle those sweet cravings. With dark chocolate and nature’s caramel (dates) as the base, this energy-boosting treat satisfies sugar cravings without the crash. Bonus? You can customise it with your favourite add-ins for a unique flavour. Here are four easy variations to get you started, plus our recipe for Date Bark with Pecans & Hazelnuts.

How to Make Date Bark

First things first, if you’ve never made date bark, follow these easy steps.

Step 1: Prepare your base. Flatten your pitted dates into a thin layer on parchment paper.
Step 2: Melt the chocolate. Gently melt your dark chocolate slab(s) or chocolate chips in the microwave using a heatproof bowl or bain-marie on the stovetop.
Step 3: Assemble your bark. Spread the melted chocolate over the date layer and sprinkle with your favourite toppings. Fruit and nuts are ideal.
Step 4: Chill it! Pop it into the fridge until set, then break it into pieces and enjoy!

1. Strawberry & Pistachio Date Bark

Inspired by the viral Dubai bars (but less expensive), this date bark is studded with pistachios. The tartness of strawberries balances the sweetness of dates, while pistachios add a satisfying crunch and a dose of heart-healthy fats. Plus, pistachios are rich in antioxidants, making them a great source of nutrition.

What you’ll need: pitted dates, dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher), dehydrated or freshly sliced strawberries and chopped pistachios.

2. Orange Zest & Almond Date Bark

Bright and zesty, this version pairs citrusy orange zest with nutty almonds for a decadent twist. Almonds are a great source of vitamin E, which supports healthy skin – perfect for that summer glow. Add a sprinkle of chilli salt for contrasting flavours.

What you’ll need: pitted dates, dark chocolate, freshly grated orange zest, toasted almonds, chilli flakes and sea salt (or chilli salt).

3. Coconut & Banana

Love tropical flavours? Shredded coconut brings a chewy texture and provides healthy fats, fibre and antioxidants. This one’s perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up, especially with potassium-rich banana slices added to the mix.

What you’ll need: pitted dates, 2 sliced bananas, dark chocolate (you can use a higher percentage; the sweetness of the bananas and dates will balance the bitterness), unsweetened shredded coconut and desiccated coconut for sprinkling.

4. Date Bark with Pecans & Hazelnuts

Chocolaty and oh so nutty! This date bark is a delightfully indulgent yet healthier snack that’s super simple to make. Crunchy hazelnuts bring a Nutella-like flavour (minus the sweetness), and the sprinkle of sea salt enhances all the flavours. Hazelnuts are high in magnesium, which helps combat fatigue – perfect for powering through busy days. Nutty pecans, dried cranberries, coconut and peanut butter take this tasty treat to the next level.

What you’ll need: pitted dates, dark chocolate, hazelnuts, pecans, organic peanut butter or your nut butter of choice, shredded and desiccated coconut, honey, butter and sea salt.

GET THE RECIPE

Want more? Enjoy these easy summer salads.