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 shredded coconut; 1/4 cup almond butter; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Favorite Baking Collection

I absolutely love creating snacks that are not only delicious but also healthy, and these chocolate coconut date bites are a perfect blend of both! With their rich chocolate flavor paired with the natural sweetness of dates, these bites are a satisfying treat that's easy to make. I appreciate how they require minimal effort and make use of simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Each bite is a delightful combination of chewiness and creaminess, making them ideal for an afternoon pick-me-up or a post-workout boost.

Created by

Juliet Ashford

Last updated on 2026-01-15T16:28:45.568Z

When I first made these chocolate coconut date bites, I was surprised at how quickly they came together! With just a food processor and a few key ingredients, I managed to whip up a delicious snack that I now keep on hand for when my sweet tooth strikes. The addition of coconut gives it a tropical twist, balancing the sweetness of the dates perfectly.

The secret to achieving the ideal texture is to pulse the ingredients until they form a sticky but malleable mixture. It’s essential not to over-process it—this ensures that the bites retain a lovely chewiness while being easy to roll. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a staple in your house!

        Why You'll Love These Bites
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with natural sweetness from dates
A healthy alternative to traditional chocolate snacks
Quick and easy to prepare with minimal cleanup

      

Making the Most of Your Ingredients

Using Medjool dates is key for this recipe, as they are naturally soft and sweet, creating the ideal sticky consistency that binds the bites together. If you're in a pinch, you can substitute with other soft, dried fruits like figs, but you may need to adjust the amount of sweetener since figs are less sweet. A quick soak in warm water can help any dried fruit blend better, but it’s important to drain them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.

Almond butter adds a creamy texture and rich flavor, but you can certainly swap it for peanut butter or any nut-free alternative such as sunflower seed butter. Keep in mind that these substitutions might slightly alter the flavor profile, lending a different nuttiness or even a bit of saltiness. If you opt for a sweetened nut butter, reduce the quantity of dates to avoid making the bites overly sweet.

Tips for Perfectly Shaped Bites

When forming the bites, moisture management is crucial. If the dough is too sticky and difficult to roll, lightly dampen your hands with water or oil; this will make shaping much easier without adding extra flour or cocoa powder. Alternatively, chilling the mix in the fridge for about 10 minutes before rolling can help firm up the dough and make it manageable, ensuring your bites hold their shape during chilling.

A great way to ensure uniform size is to use a small cookie scoop. This tool not only helps with portioning but also ensures evenness in baking-related recipes. If you want to add a creative twist, try rolling some of the bites in extra shredded coconut or crushed nuts before chilling. This added texture gives a visual appeal and a delicious crunch when you take a bite.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your chocolate coconut date bites:

Ingredients

1 cup Medjool dates, pitted
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup shredded coconut
1/4 cup almond butter
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Once you have these ingredients ready, you’re all set to make the bites!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your chocolate coconut date bites:

Blend the Ingredients

In a food processor, combine the pitted dates, cocoa powder, shredded coconut, almond butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Pulse until the mixture becomes a sticky dough, scraping down the sides as needed.

Shape the Bites

Once the mixture is well combined, use your hands to form small balls (about 1 inch in diameter). If the mixture is too sticky, you can lightly dampen your hands or refrigerate the mixture for a few minutes for easier handling.

Chill and Enjoy

Place the formed bites on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up. Enjoy them straight from the fridge or at room temperature—either way, they’re delicious!

Your chocolate coconut date bites are now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize these bites by adding nuts, seeds, or spices like cinnamon for an extra flavor kick. You can also roll them in extra shredded coconut or crushed nuts for a different texture.

Storage and Shelf Life

To keep your chocolate coconut date bites fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to two weeks when stored properly, making them a great option for meal prep or as a weekly snack. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Place the bites in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer bag. They should keep well for about 2-3 months, retaining their flavor and texture nicely.

When ready to enjoy frozen bites, simply remove the desired amount from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before eating. This will allow them to soften slightly, bringing back that delightful chewiness. Alternatively, you can enjoy them straight out of the freezer for a chill, refreshing treat on a warm day.

Serving Suggestions

These date bites can be enjoyed as a standalone snack, but they also make a lovely addition to a variety of dishes. Try crumbling them over Greek yogurt for a quick breakfast or snack, or serve them alongside a warm cup of herbal tea for a cozy dessert experience. They bring a satisfying sweetness that pleases the palate, making them a hit at gatherings.

Additionally, consider using the bites to enhance a cheese platter or charcuterie board. Their rich chocolate flavor pairs beautifully with creamy cheeses and nuts, offering a delightful contrast to savory elements. For parties, cut the bites in half for easy bite-sized portions, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a taste without overindulging.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the almond butter?

Yes, you can use any nut or seed butter, like peanut butter or sunflower seed butter.

→ How do I store the bites?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I use dried fruits instead of dates?

While dates work best for this recipe due to their stickiness, you can try using dried apricots or figs, though the texture may vary.

→ What can I use instead of cocoa powder?

You can replace cocoa powder with carob powder for a different flavor profile, though this will change the taste slightly.