Snickers Date Bark with Crunchy Quinoa

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If you’re a fan of date recipes like this, you’ll LOVE my Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Chocolate Covered Dates, Mini Egg Cookie Dough Date Bark and my Christmas Crack Date Bark. And if you’re new to baking with dates, my Date-Sweetened Desserts Guide is a good place to start.

And, if you’re making this date bark for Valentine’s Day, my Date Bark Hearts recipe is the same base but shaped into hearts.

Here’s What You’ll Need to Make My Snickers Date Bark with Crunchy Quinoa Recipe:

For the Crunchy Quinoa Base:

• Quinoa: When toasted, provides a satisfying crunch and nutritional boost (protein, fiber)
• Chocolate chips: Creates the binding base layer and adds sweetness
• Coconut oil: Helps the chocolate melt smoothly and gives a slight sheen when set

For the Sweet Date Layer:

• Dates: Provide natural sweetness, chewy texture, and nutritional benefits (fiber, antioxidants)
• Natural peanut butter: Adds protein, healthy fats, and a creamy texture that complements the dates
• Chopped peanuts: Provide additional crunch and texture contrast to the soft dates

For the Chocolate Topping:

• Chocolate chips: Creates a smooth, glossy top layer that seals in the other ingredients
• Coconut oil: Helps with melting and creates a snappier texture when set
• Flaky sea salt: Enhances all flavors and provides contrast to the sweetness
• Optional toppings (nuts, coconut, sprinkles): Add visual appeal and additional texture

Kitchen Tools Required

• Large skillet for toasting quinoa
• 8×8 inch baking pan lined with parchment paper
• Microwave-safe bowl or double boiler
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife for cutting the finished bark

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Snickers Date Bark

Toast the Quinoa

1. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat (no oil needed).
2. Add the quinoa to the dry, hot skillet and toast for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. You’ll know it’s ready when the quinoa starts making popping sounds and turns golden brown. This step adds an amazing nutty flavor!
4. Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes.

Create the Quinoa Base Layer

1. Melt 1 cup of chocolate chips with 1 tablespoon coconut oil. You can do this in the microwave (30-second intervals, stirring between) or use the double boiler method, melting the chocolate slowly in a heat-proof bowl over a pot of simmering water.
2. Mix your toasted quinoa into the melted chocolate until every grain is coated then press this mixture into your parchment-lined 8×8 pan, creating an even layer.
3. Refrigerate for 10-15 minutes until set.

Add the Date Layer

1. Arrange the pitted and halved dates on top of the set chocolate-quinoa base, overlapping slightly so they stick together.
2. Warm up your peanut butter (10-20 seconds in the microwave) until it’s easy to spread and then pour it over the dates and spread it into an even layer.
3. Sprinkle the chopped peanuts on top for extra crunch!

Finish with Chocolate Topping

1. For the final layer, melt your remaining cup of chocolate chips with 1 tablespoon coconut oil.
2. Pour the melted chocolate over everything and spread it into an even layer.
3. Tap your pan gently against the counter to help the chocolate settle evenly.
4. Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt and any additional toppings you desire.
5. Refrigerate the bark for at least 30 minutes, or freeze for 10-15 minutes until completely set.

Serve and Enjoy

1. Once set, remove the date bark from the pan using the parchment paper. Place on a cutting board and cut into squares or break into irregular pieces. Enjoy immediately or store for later!

Tips to Make the Best Snickers Date Bark with Crunchy Quinoa:

• Make sure to toast the quinoa until it’s golden brown for maximum crunch and nutty flavor.
• Melt chocolate low and slow to prevent burning or seizing.
• Use the back of a spoon or offset spatula to create smooth, even layers.
• For neat squares, use a sharp knife warmed under hot water and wiped dry between cuts.
• Medjool dates work best for this recipe, but any moist, soft dates will work.

Best Way to Store Date Bark

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
• Freezer: Can be frozen for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.
• Serving from Frozen: Let sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before eating, as the dates can get quite firm when frozen.
• Layering: If stacking pieces for storage, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions