Chocolate Date Tahini Squares

Name: Chocolate Date Tahini Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup pitted Medjool dates; 1/2 cup tahini; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/4 cup almond milk; 1 tsp vanilla extract; A pinch of salt; 2 oz dark chocolate, melted; Chopped nuts or seeds (optional)

Highlighted under: Oven Ideas

I absolutely love making Chocolate Date Tahini Squares for a quick treat! These squares combine the rich taste of chocolate with the creamy texture of tahini and the natural sweetness of dates. Each bite is a delightful indulgence that feels like a dessert yet is packed with nutrients. I've been experimenting with different ingredient ratios, and I find that the balance between the chocolate and tahini creates a perfect harmony of flavors. They're so satisfying, and the best part is they come together in just a few minutes!

Created by

Lorna Whitcombe

Last updated on 2026-01-14T08:53:35.408Z

When I first tried making these Chocolate Date Tahini Squares, I knew I was onto something special. Combining tahini with dates not only added natural sweetness but also created a wonderfully creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the dark chocolate. I remember the first time I served these to my friends—they disappeared within minutes, and everyone was asking for the recipe!

One specific tip I discovered when making these squares is to let them chill in the fridge for at least an hour. This not only helps in firming up the squares but also enhances the flavors, making each bite a decadent treat. Trust me, you won't be able to stop at just one!

Why You'll Love These Squares
Rich chocolate flavor paired with creamy tahini
Naturally sweetened with dates, no refined sugars
Perfectly portable for snacks or dessert

Ingredient Insights

Using Medjool dates in this recipe is essential due to their natural sweetness and sticky texture, which help bind the ingredients. These dates give the squares a caramel-like flavor that complements the bitterness of cocoa. If you find Medjool dates hard to source, you can substitute them with deglet noor dates, but you may need to add a touch more almond milk to achieve the desired sticky consistency.

Tahini plays a crucial role in achieving the creamy texture of these squares. It also adds a nutty depth of flavor that balances the sweetness of the dates. If you're looking for nut-free alternatives, sunflower seed butter can work well, but keep in mind it will slightly alter the taste profile.

Almond milk brings moisture to the mixture without overpowering the chocolate and tahini flavors. Feel free to use other plant-based milks like oat or hemp milk. However, ensure that they are unsweetened, as added sugars can alter the intended flavor of these decadent squares.

Chilling and Serving Tips

After pressing the mixture into the pan, it's crucial to refrigerate for at least one hour. This chilling time allows the squares to firm up properly, making them easier to cut without crumbling. If you’re short on time, you can place them in the freezer for about 20 to 30 minutes, but keep an eye on them to avoid freezing solid.

When it comes to cutting the squares, using a sharp knife is key to achieving clean edges. You can dip the knife in hot water and wipe it dry between cuts for the cleanest lines. If you prefer a bit of variety, consider cutting the squares into different shapes like triangles or even using cookie cutters for fun, festive portions.

For serving, these squares are incredibly versatile. They can be enjoyed as a midday snack or a post-dinner treat. Top them with various options like sea salt for a sweet-salty contrast or a dusting of cocoa powder for an extra chocolatey kick.

Ingredients

For the Squares

1 cup pitted Medjool dates
1/2 cup tahini
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup almond milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
A pinch of salt

For the Topping

2 oz dark chocolate, melted
Chopped nuts or seeds (optional)

These ingredients come together to create tasty squares that are both delicious and nourishing.

Instructions

Prepare the Mixture

In a food processor, combine the dates, tahini, cocoa powder, almond milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Blend until smooth and sticky.

Press into a Pan

Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper. Transfer the mixture into the dish, pressing it down evenly to fill the corners.

Chill

Refrigerate the pressed mixture for at least 1 hour to firm up.

Top with Chocolate

Once chilled, drizzle the melted dark chocolate over the top. Optionally, sprinkle with chopped nuts or seeds.

Cut and Serve

Remove from the pan, cut into squares, and enjoy! Store leftovers in the fridge.

These steps will guide you to a simple yet tasty treat!

Pro Tips

For a nut-free version, substitute tahini with sunflower seed butter. You can also play with the sweetness by adding more or fewer dates based on your preference.

Storage and Shelf Life

These Chocolate Date Tahini Squares store well in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just ensure they are kept in an airtight container to maintain freshness. If you decide to make a larger batch, you can easily double the recipe and store the squares in the fridge without compromising their flavor or texture.

For longer storage, consider freezing the squares. Cut them into individual portions and wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap or parchment paper before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept in the freezer for up to three months. Just allow them to thaw in the fridge for a few hours before enjoying.

If you do freeze the squares, avoid topping them with melted chocolate until you're ready to consume them. This prevents the chocolate from becoming brittle in the freezing process. Add the chocolate drizzle after thawing to keep it glossy and appealing.

Variations and Flavor Additions

Get creative with flavor by incorporating different mix-ins such as shredded coconut, chia seeds, or even a touch of cinnamon for warmth. These additions not only enhance the taste but also add nutritional benefits. If you are a fan of nutty flavors, consider adding finely chopped almonds or walnuts right before pressing the mixture into the pan.

For a more indulgent version, you can replace some of the tahini with nut butter like almond or peanut butter. This adds a different flavor profile and can make the squares even creamier. Just keep in mind that this will alter the overall taste, so adjust other ingredients accordingly to maintain balance.

If you're looking for a festive twist, try incorporating seasonal spices such as pumpkin spice or ginger for a unique seasonal variation. Likewise, drizzling with white chocolate instead of dark or topping with dried fruit can create a completely different flavor experience while still keeping the essence of these delicious squares.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use peanut butter instead of tahini?

Yes, peanut butter will work but will alter the flavor profile slightly.

→ How long do these squares last in the fridge?

They can last up to 1 week when stored in an airtight container in the fridge.

→ Can I freeze these squares?

Absolutely! They freeze well for up to 2 months. Just thaw before enjoying.

→ Are these squares vegan?

Yes, all the ingredients are vegan-friendly!