Chocolate Date Tahini Squares

Name: Chocolate Date Tahini Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 16.0
Ingredients: 2 cups pitted dates; 1/2 cup tahini; 1/3 cup cocoa powder; 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional); 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Oven Kitchen

I recently experimented with a new dessert that combines my love for rich chocolate and the nutty flavor of tahini. These Chocolate Date Tahini Squares are not only satisfyingly sweet but also packed with wholesome ingredients. I adore how the natural sweetness of dates complements the creamy tahini, creating a delightful treat that's both indulgent and nutritious. Perfect for a midday snack or a guilt-free dessert, these squares always have my friends asking for the recipe. Give them a try; you’ll be hooked!

Created by

Winifred Calder

Last updated on 2026-01-14T06:53:35.570Z

Creating these Chocolate Date Tahini Squares was an eye-opening experience for me. I wanted to make a dessert that was both delicious and healthier than what I usually indulge in. By blending dates and tahini, I discovered that I could achieve a cohesive, rich flavor without the need for refined sugars. It's fascinating how natural ingredients can combine to create something truly special.

One key tip I learned while making these squares is to ensure the tahini is well-stirred before mixing. This helps achieve a creamy consistency throughout the mix, ensuring every bite is just as delightful as the last. I was thrilled with the outcome!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with nutty tahini
Naturally sweetened with dates for guilt-free indulgence
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any occasion

Ingredient Insights

The star of these Chocolate Date Tahini Squares is undoubtedly the dates. Medjool dates, known for their rich sweetness and soft texture, are ideal for achieving a naturally sweet base without added sugars. They also contribute to the fudgy texture of the squares. Make sure to choose dates that are fresh and moist; if they are dry, you can soak them in warm water for about 10 minutes before blending to improve the texture.

Tahini, made from ground sesame seeds, is not just a flavor enhancer; it provides healthy fats and protein to the recipe. The nutty nature of tahini balances the sweetness of the dates, creating a harmonious flavor profile. If you're looking for an alternative, almond or cashew butter can work as a substitute, though they will slightly alter the flavor.

Preparation Tips

When blending the mixture, ensure that your food processor is powerful enough to break down the dates into a smooth consistency. If you find the mixture isn't blending well, you can scrape down the sides mid-blend or add a teaspoon of water to help it come together. The consistency should be sticky enough to hold together when pressed into the baking dish but not too wet.

For the nuts, I recommend lightly toasting them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes. This step enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch to the squares. If you're in a nut-free zone, consider using seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for a similar crunch without the allergens.

Storage and Serving

These squares are ideal for meal prep, as they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage—just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking, and they can last for up to three months. When freezing, cut the squares first to make it easier to grab the amount you need later.

Serving these squares can be a fun opportunity to get creative. For an added touch, consider drizzling melted dark chocolate over the top or sprinkling a pinch of sea salt before chilling. This not only enhances the appearance but also adds a contrasting flavor that elevates each bite.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your delicious Chocolate Date Tahini Squares:

Ingredients

2 cups pitted dates
1/2 cup tahini
1/3 cup cocoa powder
1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Ensure that all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your squares:

Prepare the Mixture

In a food processor, combine the pitted dates, tahini, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Blend until the mixture becomes smooth and sticky.

Add Nuts

If using nuts, add them into the blended mixture and pulse a few times to incorporate, ensuring they remain chunky.

Shape the Squares

Line a square baking dish with parchment paper. Transfer the mixture into the dish, pressing it down tightly to form an even layer.

Chill and Cut

Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until firm. Once set, lift the mixture out of the dish using the parchment paper and cut into squares.

Enjoy your homemade Chocolate Date Tahini Squares with friends or as a snack!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize these squares by adding your favorite seeds or spices for an extra flavor twist.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your squares fall apart when cutting, it could mean the mixture wasn't pressed down firmly enough in the baking dish. Next time, make sure to pack it tightly and use a flat object, like the bottom of a measuring cup, to compress the mixture evenly.

Alternatively, if the mixture is too dry and crumbly, try adding a teaspoon or two of tahini to moisten it. Blend again, and you should achieve a more cohesive texture that holds together better after chilling.

Flavor Variations

For those who enjoy a little extra zest, consider adding a teaspoon of orange or almond extract during blending. This can enhance the flavor complexity without introducing additional sugars. Coconut flakes can also be added for a tropical twist, making it an exciting variation on the original recipe.

You can even experiment with other nut butters or even protein powders to vary the nutrition profile. Just keep in mind that altering the main ingredients might require slight adjustments in amounts to maintain the right texture.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're planning to serve a larger crowd or want to batch-prep for the week, this recipe can easily be doubled or tripled. Just make sure to use a larger food processor or split the ingredients into batches to blend effectively. If using a larger pan, keep an eye on the chilling time, as more mixture might take a bit longer to firm up.

When scaling up, also consider the proportions of the chocolate vs. tahini; maintaining the balance will ensure that you achieve that richly satisfying flavor that makes these squares so delightful.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute tahini with another nut butter?

Yes, almond butter or peanut butter can be used as a substitute, but the flavor will vary slightly.

→ How should I store these squares?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

→ Can I freeze these squares?

Absolutely! They freeze well for up to three months. Just allow them to thaw in the fridge before enjoying.

→ Are these squares vegan?

Yes, these Chocolate Date Tahini Squares are completely vegan!