Vegan No-Bake Tahini Coconut Date Bars
Rich, fudgy bars combining creamy tahini with sweet Medjool dates and tropical coconut, sandwiched between layers of dark chocolate. The nutty tahini adds depth while coconut provides texture, creating an indulgent yet naturally sweetened treat. Crunchy sesame seeds and walnuts add contrast to the smooth base. Perfect for potlucks, healthy dessert tables, or when you need a satisfying sweet without turning on the oven. These bars offer the convenience of no-bake preparation with sophisticated flavors that appeal to both vegan and non-vegan guests.
Ingredients
- 1 ¼ cups dark chocolate chips
- 15 Medjool dates
- ¾ cup tahini
- 1 ½ cups unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- ½ cup chopped walnuts
- 2 tablespoons cacao nibs or chocolate chipsmini chocolate chips1:1availability
sweeter result
Instructions
- 1
Line a 10-inch loaf pan with parchment paper
- 2
Melt 8 oz of chocolate chips in a double boiler over simmering water, whisking often
- 3
Drizzle melted chocolate into prepared pan bottom, tilt and tap to coat evenly
- 4
Freeze until hardened, about 10 minutes
- 5
Combine dates, tahini, coconut, coconut oil, and salt in food processor and pulse until combined
- 6
Transfer mixture to large bowl and fold in sesame seeds, walnuts, and cacao nibs
- 7
Remove pan from freezer and pour date mixture over set chocolate
- 8
Press date mixture into even layer
- 9
Melt remaining 2 oz chocolate chips in double boiler, whisking often
- 10
Drizzle melted chocolate over date layer
- 11
Freeze until hardened, about 10 minutes more
- 12
Remove from freezer and slice crosswise into 16 bars
Tips
Ensure dates are soft and fresh for easier processing. If dates are dry, soak in warm water for 10 minutes before using.
Press the date layer firmly to prevent bars from crumbling when sliced. Use the bottom of a measuring cup for even pressure.
For cleaner cuts, run knife under warm water between slices and wipe clean after each cut.
Good to Know
airtight container in refrigerator for up to 4 days
can be made 3 days ahead and stored refrigerated
cold or at room temperature
Common Mistakes
avoid overprocessing dates to prevent paste-like texture
ensure chocolate is completely set before adding next layer to prevent mixing
Substitutions
Nut-Free Alternatives
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I use regular dates instead of Medjool?
Yes, but soak regular dates in warm water for 10 minutes first to soften them. Medjool dates are naturally softer and sweeter, so the texture may be slightly different.
How long do these bars keep at room temperature?
These bars are best stored in the refrigerator and can sit at room temperature for 2-3 hours before serving. Extended time at room temperature may cause chocolate to soften.
Can I freeze these bars for longer storage?
Yes, wrap individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in refrigerator for 2 hours before serving for best texture.