Sweet, satisfying, and so simple, these stuffed dates are a game-changer for busy moms looking for a quick, healthy snack. Inspired by the viral 'healthy Snickers' trend, they’re loaded with natural sweetness and just the right amount of indulgence.
Who says healthy snacks can’t be sweet and indulgent? These stuffed dates with peanut butter and chocolate hit the sweet spot—literally—while also delivering a boost of essential nutrients like magnesium, fiber, and potassium.
As a dietitian, I believe some foods are meant to be enjoyed just for the joy of it. But when you can indulge in something this delicious and get a nutrient boost, why not go for it?
For another healthy chocolate treat that you can meal prep, make a big batch of dark chocolate granola to snack on too!
If you’ve come across the viral “healthy Snickers” trend, this recipe is for you. The natural caramel-like sweetness of dates pairs perfectly with the rich, creamy peanut butter and chocolate for a treat that feels decadent but is so easy to make.
With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up these “healthy Snickers” in just minutes—no baking required. I love making a big batch to stash in the fridge and freezer, so I always have a healthy, sweet plant based snack on hand whenever cravings hit.
And yes, kids love them too—but who says you have to share?
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Jump to:
- Why dates with peanut butter and chocolate is a healthy snack
- What you need to make these healthy Snickers
- How to make peanut butter stuffed dates with chocolate
- How to adapt this recipe for a low-energy day
- Variations
- Tips
- Make ahead, freezing, and storage instructions
- Peanut Butter and Chocolate Stuffed Dates Recipe
- 📖 Recipe
Why dates with peanut butter and chocolate is a healthy snack
These stuffed dates aren’t just a tasty dessert—they’re full of nutrients that support your energy and mood, making them a perfect option for moms like you who are juggling a million things at once:
- Natural energy boost: Dates are rich in natural sugars, fiber, and potassium, which help stabilize blood sugar and give you a steady energy boost.
- Protein and healthy fats: Peanut butter adds staying power to this snack, helping you feel full and satisfied longer. Healthy fats also play a role in supporting brain health and reducing stress– win-win!
- Mood-boosting chocolate: Dark or semi-sweet chocolate isn’t just incredibly satisfying—it’s rich in antioxidants and nutrients like magnesium that can help improve mood and combat fatigue.
- Easy to meal prep: Whether you’re enjoying them as an afternoon pick-me-up, a post-dinner treat, or a grab-and-go snack, you can make a big batch of these stuffed dates and keep them in the refrigerator or freezer, so you always have a balanced, healthy snack on hand.
What you need to make these healthy Snickers
You only need THREE ingredients to make these stuffed dates, all of which can be kept in the pantry to have on hand anytime you need them!
- Medjool dates: Dates are large, soft, and naturally sweet, making them the perfect base for this recipe. They add a caramel-like texture and sweetness while adding tons of nutrients. Medjool is my favorite to use, but any large date will work.
(If you ever open up a date to see that it’s fuzzy and black inside– make sure you watch this video to know why!)
- Peanut butter: You can use any time of peanut butter, but I prefer a natural, no-stir creamy like Jiff Natural or Skippy Natural because it’s much easier to spread on the dates and stay in place (natural peanut butter that’s more runny will make a mess)
- Chocolate: For the most nutritional benefit, use dark chocolate, but semi-sweet also works. You can either melt chocolate chips or a chocolate bar; either does the trick!
How to make peanut butter stuffed dates with chocolate
- Prep the dates: Slice each date lengthwise and remove the pit.
- Stuff with peanut butter: Spoon about one teaspoon of peanut butter into the cavity of each date.
- Melt the chocolate: Use the microwave in 20 to 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth. Alternatively, use a double boiler on low heat. If the chocolate is too thick, stir in a small amount of neutral oil like avocado or coconut oil to thin it out.
- Drizzle and top: Drizzle the melted chocolate over the stuffed dates. Add your favorite toppings before the chocolate sets.
- Chill to set: Place the dates on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate or freeze until the chocolate is firm about 20-30 minutes.
How to adapt this recipe for a low-energy day
Want to make this recipe but need it to be even easier? I got you! Here are some easy ways to shave down time and effort while making peanut butter and chocolate-stuffed dates
- Use pre-pitted dates: Save time and effort by buying pre-pitted Medjool dates- no pitting required.
- Skip the toppings: While they add texture and flavor, the toppings are optional. You can keep it simple with just peanut butter and chocolate.
- Melt the chocolate in the microwave: The microwave method is faster and less hands-on than using a double boiler.
- Make a smaller batch: If prepping a full batch feels daunting, make just a few stuffed dates at a time. They’re so quick to assemble that even a small batch will satisfy your cravings.
- Make the kids do the work: sort of joking here, but not really. This recipe is so simple that an assembly line of one kid stuffing peanut butter, one drizzling chocolate, and another (or you) sprinkling toppings will keep them busy and get a lot made more quickly.
Variations
This recipe is really versatile, so you can easily customize it based on your taste preferences or what you have on hand:
- Swap the nut butter: Try almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter for a different flavor profile or for an allergy-friendly snack.
- Swap the chocolate: Experiment with milk chocolate, white chocolate, or even melt a candy bar for a different flavor or use what you have on hand.
- Tropical vibes: Add shredded coconut and a pinch of sea salt for a fun tropical flavor.
- Make it crunchy: Sprinkle chopped nuts, granola, or crushed pretzels over the chocolate for extra texture.
- Spice it up: Sprinkle a little cinnamon or chili powder over the dates for a unique flavor.
Tips
- Choose soft, fresh dates: Medjool dates are ideal because they’re naturally soft and easy to stuff. If your dates are firm, try microwaving them for a few seconds to soften them up or soak them in water for 15 minutes (then drain and dry well) for easier filling.
- Thin your chocolate: If the melted chocolate seems too thick, add a small amount of neutral oil like avocado or coconut oil to make it easier to drizzle.
- Work on parchment paper: Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to keep the chocolate from sticking as it sets.
- Make ahead: These stuffed dates can be prepped in advance and stored in the fridge or freezer for a grab-and-go snack.
- Double the batch: These are so delicious they’ll disappear quickly! Consider making a double batch to keep some in the freezer for future cravings.
Make ahead, freezing, and storage instructions
My favorite part about this easy dessert or snack? They stay good for months in the freezer, so you can make a huge batch to enjoy anytime you’d like!
To store your stuffed dates in the refrigerator: After the chocolate on the dates has set, place them in an airtight container in a single layer. They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to a week.
To store stuffed dates in the freezer: Place the dates on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze for at least 2 hours or until the dates are frozen. Then toss your dates into any freezer bag or freezer-safe container and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To thaw frozen dates: Just remove a date from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes, or move it to the refrigerator before eating.
Peanut Butter and Chocolate Stuffed Dates Recipe
📖 Recipe
Stuffed Dates with Peanut Butter and Chocolate (Viral Healthy Snickers)
Ingredients
- 12 Dates Medjool work best
- ⅓ cup Chocolate dark or semi-sweet, bar or chips
- ½ cup Peanut butter
- Optional Toppings: crushed peanuts : flaky sea salt, shredded coconut, chopped almonds
Instructions
- 1. Slice the dates lengthwise and remove the pit.2. Fill each date with around 1 teaspoon of peanut butter.3. Melt the chocolate: Microwave in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth. Alternatively, melt over low heat using a double boiler.4. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the stuffed dates.Sprinkle crushed peanuts or your favorite topping over the melted chocolate.5. Place the dates on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate or freeze until the chocolate is set.6. Transfer to an airtight container for storage. Keep refrigerated for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.
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