Chocolate Coconut Date Bites

Name: Chocolate Coconut Date Bites
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 12 bites
Ingredients: 1 cup Medjool dates, pitted; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup almond butter; 1/4 cup shredded unsweetened coconut; 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Modern Kitchen

I love making Chocolate Coconut Date Bites for a quick, healthy treat. These delightful bites are not only easy to prepare, but they also combine rich chocolate and the nutty flavor of coconut, creating a snack that's both satisfying and indulgent. With just a handful of natural ingredients, I whip up these energy bites whenever I have a sweet craving. They’re perfect for sharing or as a grab-and-go snack to fuel my day, and they don’t require any baking!

Created by

Rhiannon Sutherland

Last updated on 2026-01-21T20:06:36.527Z

Making these Chocolate Coconut Date Bites became a tradition for my family and me. I discovered that soaking the dates makes them softer and easier to blend into a creamy mixture, which enhances the overall texture of the bites. I experimented with different nut butter bases, and settled on almond butter, as it perfectly compliments the sweetness of the dates while offering a rich flavor.

I've found that rolling the bites in shredded coconut gives them that delightful crunch, making every bite an enjoyable experience. Each time I prepare these, I love how they disappear quickly, proving they're a hit with everyone. Plus, they’re such a versatile treat that you can even customize them with different nuts or seeds!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with sweet, chewy dates.
Nutty coconut coating adds texture and flavor.
Healthy, guilt-free treat perfect for any time of day.

      

Texture and Flavor Profile

The combination of rich cocoa powder and creamy almond butter creates a luscious base that is both satisfying and indulgent. When you bite into these Chocolate Coconut Date Bites, your taste buds will experience a delightful harmony of chocolatey sweetness and the nutty backdrop of almond butter. The addition of vanilla extract further enhances the overall flavor, imparting a warm, aromatic note that elevates each bite.

Coating the bites in shredded coconut adds not only visual appeal but also a pleasing texture contrast. The chewy consistency of the dates pairs beautifully with the crispiness of the coconut, resulting in a mouthfeel that is truly enjoyable. If you choose to include chopped nuts, they introduce an additional crunch, making these bites even more satisfying.

Ingredient Insights and Substitutions

Medjool dates are essential in this recipe, as they provide natural sweetness and a chewy texture that binds the ingredients together. If you're looking for a lower-calorie alternative, you can substitute with deglet noor dates, which are less sweet but retain some chewiness. Just be mindful that the overall flavor may differ slightly, so taste the mixture before shaping the bites.

When it comes to the nut butter, almond butter is my favorite due to its mild, nutty flavor that complements chocolate well. However, you can swap it with peanut butter or cashew butter depending on your preference. This change may alter the flavor profile, but both options will give you a creamy texture that helps hold the bites together.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These Chocolate Coconut Date Bites can be made in advance, which is a huge time-saver! Once shaped, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator where they will keep well for up to a week. If you want to make a larger batch, consider freezing them. Simply freeze the bites on a baking sheet until firm and then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They can last for up to three months and are perfect for a quick snack straight from the freezer.

For the best texture when serving after freezing, allow the bites to thaw in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before enjoying. This will help them regain their ideal chewy consistency without losing the delightful chocolate flavor. I often pack a few of these bites in my bag for a nutritious snack on the go!

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your Chocolate Coconut Date Bites:

Ingredients

1 cup Medjool dates, pitted
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup almond butter
1/4 cup shredded unsweetened coconut
1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Now that you have your ingredients, let’s move on to the steps.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Chocolate Coconut Date Bites:

Blend the Ingredients

In a food processor, combine the pitted dates, cocoa powder, almond butter, and vanilla extract. Blend until the mixture is smooth and well combined. If the mixture feels too dry, you can add a teaspoon of water.

Add Coconut and Nuts

Once blended, transfer the mixture to a bowl and fold in the shredded coconut and chopped nuts. Stir until evenly distributed.

Shape the Bites

Using your hands, roll the mixture into small bite-sized balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Chill and Set

Refrigerate the bites for at least 30 minutes to firm up. They’re now ready to enjoy!

Enjoy these bites as a nutritious snack or dessert!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a hint of sea salt on top of the bites after rolling them in coconut.

Nutritional Value

One of the key benefits of these Chocolate Coconut Date Bites is their nutritional profile. Medjool dates are rich in essential nutrients, including fiber, potassium, and magnesium, which help promote digestive health. Almond butter adds a good dose of healthy fats and protein, making these bites not just a treat, but a nourishing snack that can provide lasting energy.

Additionally, using unsweetened cocoa powder ensures that the bite's sweetness comes purely from natural sources, avoiding added sugars found in many processed snacks. This makes them a guilt-free indulgence that I can feel good about enjoying throughout the day.

Serving Suggestions

These bites are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. You can enjoy them as a quick breakfast on the move, a pre-workout snack for an energy boost, or even as an after-dinner treat to satisfy your sweet tooth without the guilt. For a fun twist, try serving them alongside a small dish of almond milk or atop a slice of banana for added creaminess.

If you're hosting a gathering, plate these bites on a beautiful serving dish and garnish with a sprinkle of shredded coconut for a visually appealing display. They make an excellent conversation starter and a healthier alternative to traditional desserts, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to experiment with the flavor of your Chocolate Coconut Date Bites! For a tropical twist, add a teaspoon of almond extract or citrus zest such as orange or lime to the mixture. These additions can brighten the flavor profile and bring a refreshing note to the rich chocolate.

You might also consider incorporating superfood ingredients like chia seeds, flaxseeds, or hemp seeds into the mixture for an added nutritional boost. Just be mindful of adjusting the texture if you add too many dry ingredients; a little goes a long way in enhancing both flavor and health benefits.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other nut butters?

Absolutely! Peanut butter or cashew butter would work well in this recipe.

→ How long do these last in the fridge?

They can last up to 2 weeks in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

→ Can I freeze these bites?

Yes, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, all the ingredients used in this recipe are vegan-friendly!