Date Chews
Chewy, rich date and walnut bars with a hint of almond flavor, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings or a wholesome snack. Suitable for all ages and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt together in a bowl.
- Stir in chopped dates, chopped walnuts, beaten eggs, and almond extract until well combined.
- Spread the mixture evenly in a greased 10 1/2 x 15 1/2 x 1-inch pan.
- Bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before cutting into bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a chewier texture, use Medjool dates, as they are softer and sweeter. If you're out of walnuts, pecans or almonds can be great substitutes. To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg. Ensure your baking pan is well-greased to prevent sticking, and for easier cutting, let the bars cool completely before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
These date chews make a delightful snack on their own or as a sweet treat alongside coffee or tea. For an extra touch, serve them with a drizzle of honey or a dollop of whipped cream. They pair beautifully with Nanny'S Famous Buttermilk Biscuits for a brunch spread, or can be enjoyed as a dessert after a meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover date chews in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, they can be refrigerated for up to two weeks or frozen for up to three months. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave for a few seconds, or enjoy them at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Date Chews contains roughly 664 calories, with 16g protein, 68g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (33% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (29% of the Daily Value), and iron (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 730mg per serving (32% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other dried fruits instead of dates?
Yes, you can substitute chopped dried apricots, figs, or raisins for the dates. However, keep in mind that this will alter the flavor profile, so adjust sugar levels if needed based on the sweetness of the substitute.
Is it possible to make these date chews gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that the baking powder is also gluten-free, and you'll have a delicious gluten-free treat.
What can I serve these date chews with?
These date chews are great on their own, but they also pair well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside a fresh fruit salad for a balanced dessert. For a unique twist, serve them with a side of cream cheese frosting for dipping.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).