These Date Nut Protein Bars With Chocolate Topping are one of those recipes that just make sense. They are naturally sweet, very satisfying and made with simple ingredients you can feel good about eating. No baking, no complicated steps – just real food blended together into a nourishing bar that tastes like a treat.
Dates are the heart of this recipe. They add natural sweetness, a caramel-like flavour and that perfectly sticky texture that holds everything together without the need for refined sugar or syrups. Paired with nuts, they create a bar that is rich, filling and full of healthy fats and fibre, exactly what you want in a snack that is going to keep you satisfied.
Adding protein powder turns these bars into more than just an energy bite. It makes them a balanced option that works beautifully as an afternoon snack, post-workout refuel or even a healthier dessert. These are the kind of bars that don’t leave you crashing or craving more – they actually do their job.
The nut base gives these bars a lovely texture and depth of flavour. You can use almonds, walnuts, cashews or a mix – whatever you have on hand works. Blending the nuts with dates creates a soft, chewy bar that feels indulgent without being heavy or overly sweet.
And then there is the chocolate topping. A simple layer of melted dark chocolate takes these bars from everyday snack to something that feels a little special. It adds richness and contrast, without overpowering the natural flavours underneath. This is exactly the kind of balance that fits the Blended Bites approach – nourishing first, with just enough indulgence to make it enjoyable.
These bars are also incredibly practical. They store well in the fridge or freezer, making them perfect for meal prep. Make a batch at the start of the week and you have got something ready to grab whenever life gets busy. They are portable, satisfying and far more nourishing than store-bought bars with long ingredient lists.
If you are someone who likes flexibility, this recipe is easy to adapt. You can change the nuts, swap the protein flavour, or add extras like coconut, chia seeds or a pinch of sea salt. It’s not about perfection, it’s about creating food that fits into real life and supports your energy.
Simple, nourishing and genuinely satisfying, these bars are proof that no-bake snacks can be both wholesome and indulgent – exactly how food should feel. ✨
Date Nut Protein Bars With Chocolate Topping (No Bake)
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups dates, soaked 30 minutes and drained
- 1 1/2 cups mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, cashews or pecans)
- 1-2 scoops vanilla or chocolate protein powder
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch sea salt
Chocolate Topping
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
Instructions
- Line a 7 x 5-inch loaf pan or dish with parchment paper on the bottom and sides leaving some overhanging to act as a handle to get the bars out easier for cutting.Add dates to a food processor and blend until a sticky paste forms.Add nuts, protein powder, coconut oil, vanilla and salt.Pulse until the mixture comes together - slightly chunky or smooth, depending on preference.Press the mixture firmly into the prepared pan, smoothing the top.
Chocolate Topping
- Place chocolate chips and coconut oil in small dish and microwave with 15 second bursts stirring between each one until melted and smooth.Or use double boiler method - (pot of boiling water with a bowl resting on top) melt the chocolate chips and the coconut oil together.Once melted, pour and spread the chocolate evenly over the base.Refrigerate for 1–2 hours, or until set.Slice into 8-10 bars or more smaller squares.Store in the fridge for up to 1 week or freezer for up to 3 months.
If you are looking for more delicious, healthy, protein-rich, no bake desserts and treats to help you reach your health, wellness and fitness goals, you will love my collection here: Blended Bites
