Lucille'S Date Chocolate Chip Bars
Decadent date and chocolate chip bars with crunchy nuts and rich flavors, perfect for sweet cravings and gatherings, combining chewy dates with chocolate and a tender crumb.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour boiling water over the pitted dates and add baking soda. Let cool.
- Cream shortening and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs to the mixture and beat well.
- Stir in vanilla, flour, and salt until just combined.
- Mix in the cooled date mixture.
- Spread the batter evenly in a 10 x 15-inch jelly roll pan.
- Sprinkle the chocolate chips and chopped nuts evenly over the top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter. If you don't have shortening, you can substitute with an equal amount of unsalted butter for a richer taste. Make sure the dates are well-coated with the boiling water and baking soda, as this helps them soften for better integration into the batter.
Serving Suggestions
These date chocolate chip bars are delicious on their own but can be elevated with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, making them a perfect dessert for gatherings. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making them a delightful afternoon snack. For a festive touch, serve alongside slices of Mamaw's Fruit Cake Cookies during the holidays.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the date chocolate chip bars to cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to two weeks. Reheat individual bars in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to enjoy a warm treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lucille'S Date Chocolate Chip Bars contains roughly 346 calories, with 2g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1002mg per serving (44% 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 types of sweeteners instead of sugar?
Yes, you can substitute the sugar with brown sugar or coconut sugar for a different flavor profile. If you're looking for a healthier option, try using honey or maple syrup, but note that you'll need to adjust the liquid content slightly since these are liquid sweeteners.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when they turn a golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on them as baking times can vary slightly based on your oven and pan type.
Can I freeze the date chocolate chip bars?
Absolutely! After they have cooled completely, cut them into bars and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
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).