Viral Date Bark (Nut-Free)
This is my take on the viral date bark that has been flooding the internet although I’ve made my version nut-free and grain-free. It is also suitable for those that are following a paleo diet.
After seeing this recipe multiple times on Instagram, I had to give it a try but with my spin on it. It was originally posted by Lina @thathealthjunkie so kudos to her for starting it all!
This viral date bark is technically a take on the very popular snickers stuffed dates recipe but in a slightly different form. I was inspired to make this version nut-free so that my client who is on a strict no-nuts protocol could still enjoy a healthier and tasty dessert.
We’re currently working together on putting their psoriasis in remission through the autoimmune protocol which is designed to help rebalance the gut lining and reduce overall inflammation in the body. I firmly believe that it is possible to support the body with nutrient dense foods that are still delicious. Food fuels our bodies and it is meant to be enjoyed.
Just 4 Ingredients
Pitted Medjool Dates – be sure that you’re using medjool dates as these are softer and better suited for baking. Opt for soft, fresh dates so that they stick together more easily.
Coconut Butter – most date bark recipes are made with some type of nut butter but we are swapping that out for some rich and creamy coconut butter instead to make this nut-free and still packed with healthy fats!
Lovebird Foods O’s Cereal – I used the cinnamon flavour here and this is another swap that I’ve made to make this viral date bark nut-free as most recipes will also call for chopped nuts for some added textural crunch.
Dark Chocolate – you can use chocolate chunks, dairy-free chocolate if needed or even chop up a dark chocolate bar
Ingredients
10 Pitted Dates soft, fresh Medjool
3 tbsps Coconut Butter softened but not drippy
1/4 cup Lovebird Foods Grain-Free O’s Cereal Cinnamon Flavour
100 grams Dark Chocolate ~1/2 cup, chopped
1 tsp Coconut Oil
Split your dates in half to remove the seeds but do not cut all the way through.
Combine the chocolate with the coconut oil and melt in the microwave for 20 seconds at a time, stirring in between until melted. Set aside.
Open up the pitted dates so that the inside of the date is facing up then place the dates onto the parchment paper (cut side up). Gently press the dates together so that they stick and so that there are no gaps between the dates. This is your first layer.
For your second layer, spread the coconut butter into an even layer over the dates.
For the third layer, evenly sprinkle your cereal over the coconut butter.
Lastly, evenly drizzle the chocolate over top of the cereal for your last layer.
Transfer the date bark to the fridge for about 15 minutes or until the chocolate is set then it is ready to enjoy! This is best enjoyed fresh to maintain the crunch of the cereal.
Storage: refrigerate in an airtight container until ready to serve. I don't recommend freezing as the dates will harden considerably and the cereal will lose its crunch.
No Microwave: melt the chocolate in a double boiler instead.
Medjool Dates: these work best and ensure that they are soft and fresh as they will stick together better.