Description
This High Protein Snickers Date Bark is a delicious, healthy twist on the classic candy bar, combining the natural sweetness of medjool dates with creamy peanut butter, protein powder, roasted peanuts, and a rich chocolate topping. It's an ideal no-bake treat for a quick energy boost or snack, packing a high-protein punch with wholesome ingredients and a decadent flavor.
Ingredients
Base Layer
- 16 pitted medjool dates
Peanut Butter Protein Layer
- ¾ cup natural creamy peanut butter
- scant ½ cup vanilla protein powder
- ½ teaspoon vanilla bean paste or extract
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup (optional)
- pinch of salt
Toppings
- ¼ cup roasted peanuts, roughly chopped
- ¾ cup chocolate chips
- ½ teaspoon avocado oil
- flaky sea salt, for topping
Instructions
- Prepare the Dates: If your medjool dates still have pits, carefully remove them. Lay a piece of parchment paper on your work surface and arrange the dates in a 4 by 4 square, side by side.
- Flatten the Date Layer: Cover the dates with another sheet of parchment paper and use a rolling pin to roll and press down the dates, squishing them together until they form a large, thin, flat rectangle.
- Make the Peanut Butter Protein Mixture: In a bowl, combine the peanut butter, vanilla protein powder, vanilla bean paste or extract, maple syrup (if using), and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly until the mixture forms a thick, dough-like consistency.
- Spread the Peanut Butter Layer: Spread the peanut butter mixture evenly over the flattened dates, reaching all edges. Using your fingers can help smooth and ensure even coverage.
- Add Roasted Peanuts and Chill: Sprinkle the roughly chopped roasted peanuts over the peanut butter layer and gently press them in. Place the parchment with the bark onto a baking sheet and freeze for about 30 minutes to firm up.
- Melt the Chocolate: Combine chocolate chips and avocado oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until completely melted and smooth—this should take approximately 1½ to 2 minutes.
- Top with Chocolate and Sea Salt: Pour the melted chocolate over the chilled bark and spread it evenly using a spatula, covering the entire surface. Immediately sprinkle with flaky sea salt for a perfect finishing touch. Transfer the bark to the refrigerator or freezer until the chocolate sets completely.
- Serve: Once set, slice or break into pieces and enjoy this protein-packed, indulgently sweet snack.
Notes
- If your dates are not very soft, soaking them in warm water for 10 minutes before using can help make them easier to flatten.
- The maple syrup in the peanut butter mixture is optional and can be omitted for less sweetness.
- Avocado oil helps keep the melted chocolate shiny and smooth, but you can substitute with coconut oil if preferred.
- Storing the bark in an airtight container in the fridge will keep it fresh for up to a week.
- For a vegan version, use dairy-free chocolate chips and ensure protein powder is plant-based.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
