(My take on a Take 5 candy bar)
Lately, I’ve been seeing so many great ideas for using dates as a healthier way to satisfy a sweet craving, and I love how versatile they are. I’m someone who really enjoys making something quick, low-effort, and homemade when the craving hits — especially when the alternative is reaching for a packaged candy bar.
This was inspired by a Take 5, but made with ingredients I already had at home. It has that same sweet-and-salty vibe, with a little crunch, a little chew, and just enough chocolate to feel indulgent — without the sugar overload of the original.
These come together fast, don’t require baking, and are perfect for when you want something sweet but not everything sweet.
Ingredients
- 8 oz package pitted dates, sliced open
- Pretzels, broken into pieces(I used rod pretzels since that’s what I had, but sticks or twists would be easier)
- Pecans, halved (chopped would also work)
- 10 oz package dark chocolate chips
- 4 Tbsp natural peanut butter
- 1 Tbsp vegetable shortening
Use what you have — this recipe is very forgiving.
How I Made Them
- Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper.
- Arrange the dates open-side up on the pan, placing them evenly and about ¾ inch in from the edges.
- Sprinkle pretzel pieces and pecans evenly over the dates.
- Melt the dark chocolate chips with the shortening, then stir in the peanut butter until smooth.
- Pour the chocolate mixture over everything, spreading gently to coat.
- Pop the pan in the freezer for about 10 minutes, just until set.
- Cut into pieces and enjoy.
A Quick Note
- These won’t melt at room temperature.
- No need to refrigerate after setting.
- You can substitute with gluten-free pretzels.
- You can also substitute with semi-sweet or dairy-free chocolate chips.
Because of the peanut butter, the texture is slightly softer than plain chocolate, but they still hold their shape beautifully once set.
This is one of those recipes that doesn’t need to be perfect to be good — actually, I think it’s better when it’s a little messy. It’s simple, flexible, and easy to make your own, which is exactly how I like things around here.
If you make these, I’d love to know how you tweak them.
— Jen
Good for diabetics?
From what I’ve read, the ingredients are often considered better options than refined sugar, but it still comes down to moderation and what works best for you. Everyone’s needs are different.