Fudge Date Bars
Fudge Date Bars combine the richness of chocolate and walnuts with the natural sweetness of dates, offering a delightful treat perfect for dessert or snack times.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix hot water, soda, and dates and set aside.
- Cream sugar and shortening together.
- Add eggs and vanilla to the creamed mixture.
- Add sifted flour and cocoa gradually and blend well.
- Pour the batter into a greased bar pan (10 1/2 x 15 1/2 inches).
- Sprinkle chocolate chips, chopped walnuts, and a little sugar on top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar. If you're out of shortening, unsalted butter works as a great substitute. To cut down on sweetness, reduce the amount of chocolate chips or walnuts slightly. Soaking the dates in the hot water for a longer time can enhance their softness, making them easier to mix into the batter.
Serving Suggestions
These fudge date bars are delicious on their own but can be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert. Pair them with a strong coffee or herbal tea to balance the sweetness. They also make a great snack alongside a fruit salad or while enjoying a slice of Lemon Truffle Pie.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the fudge date bars to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. For longer storage, refrigerate them where they can last up to a week. To reheat, warm individual bars in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a soft, gooey texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fudge Date Bars contains roughly 1672 calories, with 28g protein, 157g carbohydrates, and 109g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (56% of the Daily Value), iron (52% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 13g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 types of nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! While walnuts add a nice crunch, feel free to substitute with pecans, almonds, or even macadamia nuts for a unique twist. Just chop them coarsely and fold them into the batter as directed.
What kind of dates should I use?
Medjool dates are preferred for their sweetness and chewy texture, but you can also use Deglet Noor dates. Just make sure to remove the pits and chop them into smaller pieces for easier mixing.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes! Simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that all other ingredients, especially the chocolate chips, are certified gluten-free to ensure the bars are safe for those with gluten intolerance.
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).