Craving something sweet but don’t want to derail your healthy eating plan? No-bake date bars are the perfect solution — a naturally sweet, nutrient-rich snack that’s quick to prepare and loaded with health benefits. Recently, gastroenterologist Dr Joseph Salhab shared his recipe for this wholesome dessert on Instagram, highlighting how it can be both gut-friendly and liver-supportive.By combining dates, almonds, pistachios, and dark chocolate, this recipe delivers a satisfying treat that’s high in fibre, healthy fats, and antioxidants, without the need for refined sugar or baking.
Why no-bake date bars are a healthier dessert choice; gastroenterologists explains
- Most store-bought sweets are loaded with processed sugar, preservatives, and unhealthy fats. Date-based bars, on the other hand, offer a more natural alternative.
- Dates provide prebiotic fibre, which feeds the beneficial bacteria in your gut, helping maintain digestive health.
- Nuts such as almonds and pistachios supply healthy fats, protein, and essential micronutrients like vitamin E, magnesium, and zinc.
- Dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher) is rich in flavonoids, powerful antioxidants that may improve heart and
liver function .
Dr Salhab points out that this combination not only satisfies cravings but also supports overall wellness, making these bars suitable as a snack or dessert.
No-bake-date bars: Key ingredients and their nutritional benefits
Medjool dates are naturally sweet, eliminating the need for added sugar. They are a rich source of fibre, potassium, magnesium, and antioxidants that help regulate digestion, support energy production, and protect against oxidative stress.Nut butters like almond or peanut butter add a creamy texture and are packed with monounsaturated fats that promote heart health. They also provide protein for satiety and muscle repair.Both almonds and pistachios are excellent sources of healthy fats, plant protein, vitamin E, and minerals. These nutrients support liver detoxification and help keep cholesterol levels balanced.Choosing 70% cocoa or higher ensures your chocolate is rich in flavonoids, which can help reduce inflammation, improve blood flow, and protect liver cells from damage.
No-bake date bars recipe at home: Step-by-step process
- Step 1 – Prepare the base
Remove the pits from approximately 14 Medjool dates. Line a baking tin with parchment paper and press the dates into an even, flat layer to form the base.
- Step 2 – Add the creamy layer
Spread ¼ cup of your favourite nut butter evenly over the date base. This acts as a binding layer while adding a smooth, rich flavour.
- Step 3 – Add crunch with nuts
Sprinkle two handfuls of almonds and one handful of pistachios over the nut butter. You can lightly crush them for an even texture or keep them whole for extra crunch.
- Step 4 – Melt the chocolate
Melt 250g of vegan dark chocolate (preferably 70%+ cocoa) over low heat or using a double boiler. Pour the melted chocolate over the nut layer and smooth it out.
- Step 5 – Chill until set
Place the tin in the fridge for about 40 minutes, or until the chocolate has fully hardened.
- Step 6 – Slice and enjoy
Cut into bars of your preferred size. Store in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy whenever you need a healthy snack.
Storage tips for no-bake date bars freshness
For maximum freshness and texture, keep your no-bake date bars in the refrigerator. The cold setting ensures the chocolate remains firm, and the nuts stay crisp. They can last up to 10–14 days when stored properly.
Health benefits of eating date bars
- Supports digestive health – High fibre content aids digestion and promotes a healthy gut microbiome.
- Boosts liver function – Healthy fats and antioxidants assist in liver detoxification.
- Provides sustained energy – Balanced combination of carbs, fats, and protein keeps you fuller for longer.
- Reduces sugar cravings – Naturally sweetened with dates, reducing dependency on refined sugar.
