Chocolate Date Tahini Squares

Name: Chocolate Date Tahini Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup medjool dates, pitted; 1/2 cup tahini; 1/2 cup rolled oats; 1/4 cup cocoa powder; 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/4 teaspoon sea salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Unsweetened coconut flakes (for sprinkling, optional)

Highlighted under: Baked Favorites

When I first made these Chocolate Date Tahini Squares, I was amazed at how simple and satisfying they turned out. With the rich, nutty flavor of tahini paired with the natural sweetness of medjool dates, each bite felt like a little indulgence. I love that they're no-bake and quick to whip up, making them perfect for any last-minute dessert needs. Whether it's for a family gathering or a cozy night in, these squares never fail to impress with their unique combination of flavors.

Created by

Ione Rutherford

Last updated on 2026-01-14T05:38:35.827Z

Making these Chocolate Date Tahini Squares was an adventure in flavor. Initially, I wasn't sure if the tahini would overpower the sweetness of the dates, but the balance turned out to be perfect! I decided to add a pinch of sea salt to enhance the chocolate's depth, and it elevated the entire experience.

After trying different ratios of ingredients, I found that using slightly less tahini than the typical recipes recommend creates a wonderfully creamy texture without being too nutty. These squares became my go-to snack for satisfying my sweet cravings without any guilt!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Decadent chocolate flavor harmonizes beautifully with the nuttiness of tahini
Naturally sweetened with medjool dates for a healthier treat
No-bake and easy to prepare, making them perfect for any occasion

Understanding the Ingredients

The magic of these Chocolate Date Tahini Squares lies in the quality of your ingredients. Medjool dates, known for their caramel-like sweetness and soft texture, serve as the primary sweetener while also binding the squares together. Opt for fresh, high-quality dates to prevent a gritty texture. If Medjool dates are unavailable, you can substitute with deglet noor dates, but you may need to adjust the sweetness by adding a touch of maple syrup or honey.

Tahini is another star here, providing a creamy texture and a rich, nutty flavor that perfectly complements the chocolate. Not only does it add depth, but it also introduces healthy fats, making these squares a satisfying treat. For a nut-free option, consider using sunbutter or pumpkin seed butter in place of tahini, although the flavor profile will shift slightly.

Techniques for Perfect Texture

When blending the mixture, aim for a consistency that is neither too dry nor overly wet. A good indicator is when the mixture holds together when squeezed in your hand. If it appears crumbly, consider adding a tablespoon of water or additional tahini to help it bind better. On the other hand, if it's too sticky, a bit more cocoa or oats can help balance it out.

Pressing the mixture firmly into the pan is crucial for achieving that perfect bar shape. Use a flat-bottomed tool, like a measuring cup, to ensure the top is even and firm. This compacting step helps the squares hold their shape when cut, preventing them from crumbling and ensuring each bite has a satisfying density.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for your Chocolate Date Tahini Squares:

Ingredients

1 cup medjool dates, pitted
1/2 cup tahini
1/2 cup rolled oats
1/4 cup cocoa powder
1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Unsweetened coconut flakes (for sprinkling, optional)

Once you have collected all the ingredients, you are ready to start making your squares!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Chocolate Date Tahini Squares:

Blend the Base

In a food processor, combine the pitted medjool dates, tahini, rolled oats, cocoa powder, sea salt, and vanilla extract. Blend until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Add Chocolate Chips

After achieving a smooth texture, fold in the dark chocolate chips gently using a spatula.

Press and Set

Line an 8x8 inch square pan with parchment paper. Transfer the mixture to the pan and press it down evenly to create a compact layer.

Chill

Refrigerate the pan for about 30 minutes, allowing the squares to firm up. Once set, remove from the pan and cut into squares.

Serve

If desired, sprinkle with coconut flakes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Date Tahini Squares!

Enjoy your homemade squares and store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator!

Pro Tips

Feel free to swap in your favorite nut butter for tahini, or add a sprinkle of nuts for a crunchy texture. To make them more decadent, drizzle with melted chocolate before chilling.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Chocolate Date Tahini Squares store exceptionally well, making them an ideal make-ahead dessert. Once cut into squares, you can keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap the squares individually in plastic wrap and freeze them. They can last up to three months in the freezer, allowing you to enjoy them at your convenience.

If you're planning to serve these squares at a later date, consider preparing the mixture a day in advance. Just be sure to allow them sufficient time to chill and set in the refrigerator, as this enhances the flavors and helps achieve a firmer texture. You can also experiment with varying the toppings, like adding crushed nuts or seeds after pressing them into the pan for a delightful crunch.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While these squares are delicious on their own, they can also be served alongside a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of almond milk for added creaminess. For a more decadent experience, pair them with fresh fruit, like raspberries or sliced bananas, which balance the rich chocolate and tahini flavors beautifully.

Feel free to customize these squares to suit your taste preferences. Consider adding a hint of espresso powder for a mocha twist or swapping in almond butter for a different nutty flavor. Incorporating spices like cinnamon or a sprinkle of sea salt on top just before serving can also elevate the taste profile and add an interesting dimension.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use any type of dates?

While medjool dates are preferred for their sweetness and texture, you can use other varieties. Just ensure they are soft and pitted.

→ How long do these squares keep?

They can stay fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Is there a substitute for tahini?

Yes! Almond butter or peanut butter are great alternatives if you prefer something different.

→ Can I freeze these squares?

Absolutely! They freeze well. Just wrap them securely and they can last for 2-3 months.