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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Add Roasted Peanuts: Sprinkle chopped roasted peanuts over the peanut butter layer, lightly pressing them in to adhere.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Set the Bark: Transfer the bark to the fridge or freezer until the chocolate topping is completely set and firm.
- 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.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 minutes (for melting chocolate)
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian