Chocolate Coconut Date Bites

Name: Chocolate Coconut Date Bites
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 12 bites
Ingredients: 1 cup Medjool dates, pitted; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 cup desiccated coconut; 1/4 cup almond meal (or ground almonds); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; A pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love making Chocolate Coconut Date Bites because they combine my favorite flavors in a delightful, bite-sized treat. The natural sweetness of dates paired with rich chocolate and the tropical hint of coconut creates a snack that feels indulgent yet wholesome. They are incredibly easy to prepare and require no baking, making them the perfect last-minute treat for any occasion. Plus, they are packed with energy, making them a great pick-me-up during a busy day.

Created by

Naomi Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-15T12:34:15.579Z

When I first experimented with these Chocolate Coconut Date Bites, I was amazed at how easily the flavors blended together. The process requires just a food processor, which makes it a fun activity without the mess of traditional baking. I found that using medjool dates provides a rich stickiness that holds everything together perfectly.

One of my favorite tips is to chill the mixture before rolling it into balls. This makes handling the sticky dough easier. These bites are also great for customizing—adding nuts or seeds can create different textures that elevate this simple recipe.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh coconut shavings
Naturally sweet with the goodness of dates
Perfect for a quick snack or a healthy dessert

      

Understanding Ingredients

The star ingredient in these Chocolate Coconut Date Bites is Medjool dates, which impart a natural sweetness and chewy texture. Their high fiber content not only aids digestion but also provides energy, making this treat a nutritious pick-me-up. If you're in a pinch, you can substitute Medjool dates with other dried varieties like Deglet Noor, but the texture and moisture will vary; be mindful that your final mixture might need a bit more binding if using drier dates.

Cocoa powder is essential for that rich chocolate flavor in your bites, but using high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder can elevate the taste significantly. If you prefer a sweeter outcome, consider using Dutch-processed cocoa for a milder flavor profile. Just remember that this might alter the depth of chocolatey notes slightly. The almond meal not only adds a nutty undertone but also helps bind the mixture together, enhancing the overall texture.

Rolling and Coating Techniques

When rolling the chilled mixture into balls, keep your hands slightly damp to prevent the mixture from sticking. This will make the process smoother and result in cleaner, nicely shaped bites. If you find the mixture too crumbly, it may indicate your dates were not sticky enough; simply add a teaspoon of water or a few more pitted dates until you achieve the right consistency.

Coating the bites with desiccated coconut not only adds a pleasant visual allure but also an added texture that complements the smooth chocolate and chewy date interior. Ensure to distribute the coconut evenly over the balls, pressing gently as needed to help it adhere. You can experiment with different coatings, such as crushed nuts or seeds, for additional crunch and flavor variations.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients:

Ingredients

1 cup Medjool dates, pitted
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup desiccated coconut
1/4 cup almond meal (or ground almonds)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of salt

Once you have everything, you're ready to make these delicious bites!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your date bites:

Blend the Ingredients

In a food processor, combine pitted dates, cocoa powder, half of the coconut, almond meal, vanilla extract, and salt. Blend until the mixture is well-combined and sticky, scraping down the sides as needed.

Chill the Mixture

Transfer the mixture to a bowl and chill in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes. This will make it easier to handle.

Form the Bites

Once chilled, take small portions of the mixture and roll them into bite-sized balls. Continue until all the mixture is shaped.

Coat in Coconut

Roll each ball in the reserved desiccated coconut to coat. Place the coated bites on a plate.

Serve and Enjoy

You can serve these immediately or store them in the fridge in an airtight container for up to a week.

Now you can enjoy your homemade Chocolate Coconut Date Bites!

Pro Tips

These bites can be customized with your favorite nuts, dried fruits, or a sprinkle of sea salt for added flavor. Experiment with different coatings like chopped nuts or seeds for extra crunch!

Storage Tips

These Chocolate Coconut Date Bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, which makes them an excellent make-ahead snack. To keep them from sticking together, you can layer them with parchment paper in between each layer. This simple trick helps maintain their shape and makes it convenient to grab a bite when needed.

If you want to extend their shelf life further, consider freezing them. Flash freeze the rolled bites on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept in the freezer for up to three months. Just remember to let them defrost in the fridge or at room temperature for a bit before enjoying the rich, fudgy delight.

Serving Suggestions

These delicious bites can be enjoyed as is or serve as a delightful addition to a dessert platter. Pair them with fresh fruit like strawberries or bananas for a tasty contrast. You could also include them alongside a selection of artisanal cheeses and nut spreads for a more sophisticated snack board at gatherings.

If you want to add some creativity to your presentation, consider drizzling melted dark chocolate over the bites prior to serving. This not only enhances the chocolatey flavor but also adds a decorative touch. You can also sprinkle some sea salt or crushed nuts on top of the melted chocolate for an elevated flavor profile.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of sweeteners instead of dates?

While dates provide natural sweetness and stickiness, you can experiment with maple syrup or agave, but the texture may vary.

→ How should I store the Chocolate Coconut Date Bites?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for about a week.

→ Can I freeze these date bites?

Yes, you can freeze them! Just layer them between parchment paper in a sealed container.

→ Are these date bites vegan?

Absolutely! All the ingredients used are plant-based, making them suitable for a vegan diet.