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High Protein Snickers Date Bark Recipe

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4.4 from 41 reviews

This High Protein Snickers Date Bark is a delicious and nutritious snack combining the natural sweetness of medjool dates with creamy peanut butter, vanilla protein powder, and a rich chocolate topping. Topped with roasted peanuts and flaky sea salt, this treat satisfies chocolate cravings while providing a protein boost, making it perfect for a healthy snack or post-workout energy bite.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes (including freezing time)
  • Yield: 20 servings

Ingredients

Base

  • 16 pitted medjool dates

Peanut Butter 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

Topping

  • ¼ cup roasted peanuts, roughly chopped
  • ¾ cup chocolate chips
  • ½ teaspoon avocado oil
  • flaky sea salt, for topping

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dates: Remove pits from medjool dates if needed. Lay a piece of parchment paper on a flat surface and place the dates side by side in a 4×4 square.
  2. Flatten the Dates: Cover the dates with another sheet of parchment paper and use a rolling pin to press and flatten them into a large, thin rectangle, binding them together.
  3. Make Peanut Butter 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 until it forms a thick, dough-like consistency.
  4. Spread Peanut Layer: Evenly spread the peanut butter mixture over the flattened dates, pressing it out to the edges using your fingers or a spatula.
  5. Add Roasted Peanuts: Sprinkle chopped roasted peanuts over the peanut butter layer, lightly pressing them in to adhere.
  6. Freeze the Bark: Place the parchment with the date bark on a baking sheet and freeze for about 30 minutes to set the layers firmly.
  7. Melt Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and avocado oil. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted, approximately 1½ to 2 minutes total.
  8. Coat with Chocolate: Pour the melted chocolate over the frozen date bark and spread it evenly to the edges using a spatula. Immediately sprinkle flaky sea salt on top.
  9. Set the Bark: Transfer the bark to the fridge or freezer until the chocolate topping is completely set and firm.
  10. Serve: Slice or break the bark into pieces and enjoy your high-protein, chocolatey snack!

Notes

  • Using parchment paper prevents sticking and makes it easy to lift and cut the bark.
  • Maple syrup is optional but adds a hint of extra sweetness.
  • Ensure the dates are soft for easier rolling and better binding.
  • The avocado oil helps the chocolate melt smoothly and gives a shinier finish.
  • Store leftover bark in the refrigerator or freezer to maintain firmness.
  • You can substitute peanuts with other nuts if preferred.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 minutes (for melting chocolate)
  • Category: Snack
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian