Salted Chocolate Truffle Bars are rich, chewy, and indulgent no-bake treats made with wholesome ingredients like date paste and coconut flour. With a soft, fudgy center and a glossy chocolate coating finished with a sprinkle of sea salt, these bars strike the perfect balance between sweet and salty. Ideal for a quick dessert or an elevated snack, they’re as satisfying as they are simple to make.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These truffle bars deliver luxurious chocolate flavor without the need for baking. The base is naturally sweetened with dates, providing not only a rich caramel-like taste but also fiber and nutrients. Coconut flour adds structure while keeping the recipe gluten-free. The combination of creamy filling and semi-sweet chocolate coating is irresistible, and the finishing touch of sea salt elevates each bite with a perfect contrast. These bars are easy to make ahead and store beautifully, making them perfect for both special occasions and everyday indulgence.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 cup date paste
- ½ cup coconut flour
- ¼ cup cacao powder (or cocoa powder)
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- Coarse salt, for topping
Directions
1. Prepare the Base Mixture:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the date paste, coconut flour, cacao powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix until a thick, dough-like consistency forms.
2. Shape and Freeze:
Transfer the mixture onto a sheet of wax or parchment paper. Press it into a rectangular slab about 1 inch thick. Place in the freezer and allow to set overnight.
3. Slice into Bars:
Once frozen, remove from the freezer and slice into 6 large bars or 12 smaller bars, depending on your preference.
4. Coat with Chocolate:
Melt the chocolate chips using a double boiler or microwave in short intervals, stirring until smooth. Dip each bar into the melted chocolate, coating all sides evenly.
5. Add Finishing Touch:
Place the coated bars on a parchment-lined tray. While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle coarse salt over the top.
6. Set and Store:
Refrigerate the bars until the chocolate is fully set. Store them in the fridge until ready to enjoy.
Servings and timing
Yield: 6 large bars (or 12 mini bars)
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: Overnight
Total Time: Approximately 8 hours 15 minutes (including chilling)
Variations
- Nutty Twist: Add finely chopped nuts (like almonds or pecans) to the base mixture for added texture.
- Spiced Version: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder to the base for a warm or spicy kick.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free chocolate chips to make the bars completely vegan.
- Protein Boost: Add a scoop of chocolate or vanilla protein powder to the base for a high-protein treat.
Storage/Reheating
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. They can also be frozen for up to two months—just thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving. These bars are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. Reheating is not necessary.
FAQs
What is date paste, and where can I find it?
Date paste is a natural sweetener made by blending soaked dates into a smooth consistency. It can be purchased at health food stores or easily made at home using pitted dates and a small amount of water.
Can I substitute the coconut flour?
Coconut flour is unique in its absorbency, so substitutions are not straightforward. If substituting, use almond flour but expect a softer consistency and reduce the quantity.
How long should I freeze the bars?
Freeze the bars for at least 8 hours or overnight to allow the base to firm up enough for clean slicing and coating.
Is cacao powder the same as cocoa powder?
Both can be used in this recipe. Cacao powder is less processed and has a slightly more bitter, earthy flavor, while cocoa powder is more mellow and widely available.
Can I make this recipe sugar-free?
Yes. Use sugar-free chocolate chips and ensure the date paste is made from unsweetened dates to reduce added sugar content.
Do I have to coat the bars in chocolate?
No, the bars can be enjoyed without the chocolate coating, but the texture and flavor will be less rich and indulgent.
Can I use a different coating, like white chocolate?
Absolutely. While semi-sweet or dark chocolate enhances the richness, white chocolate or flavored coatings can also work depending on your taste.
Will the bars hold up at room temperature?
These bars will soften at room temperature, especially in warmer environments. It’s best to serve them chilled to maintain their shape.
How can I make the chocolate coating smoother?
Add a small amount of coconut oil when melting the chocolate to create a thinner, glossier coating that’s easier to dip.
Are these bars gluten-free and vegan?
Yes, when made with dairy-free chocolate chips, the bars are both gluten-free and vegan, making them suitable for various dietary needs.
Conclusion
Salted Chocolate Truffle Bars offer a decadent yet wholesome dessert option that’s simple to prepare and delightful to eat. With a naturally sweetened, fudgy center and a crisp chocolate shell topped with sea salt, each bite is a rich and satisfying experience. Whether you’re entertaining guests, gifting homemade treats, or simply indulging in a quiet moment, these bars are sure to become a go-to favorite in your dessert rotation.
PrintSalted Chocolate Truffle Bars
Rich, creamy-meets-fluffy Salted Chocolate Truffle Bars made with date paste, coconut flour, and cacao, coated in silky chocolate and topped with sea salt. A no-bake indulgence that’s simple, satisfying, and naturally sweetened.
- Prep Time: 00:15
- Cook Time: 00:00
- Total Time: 08:00
- Yield: 6 bars 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
- 1 cup date paste
- 1/2 cup coconut flour
- 1/4 cup cacao powder (or cocoa powder)
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- Coarse salt, for topping
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the date paste, coconut flour, cacao powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir until a dough forms.
- Transfer the mixture to a piece of wax or parchment paper and press it into a rectangle about 1 inch thick.
- Freeze the mixture overnight.
- Once firm, slice into 6 large bars or 12 mini bars.
- Melt the chocolate chips until smooth.
- Dip or coat each bar evenly with melted chocolate on all sides.
- Sprinkle the tops with coarse salt while the chocolate is still wet.
- Refrigerate the bars until the chocolate is fully set.
- Store in the fridge and enjoy chilled.
Notes
- Use high-quality chocolate chips for a smoother coating.
- Bars can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
- Let bars sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before eating for a softer texture.
- For a nutty twist, add crushed almonds or hazelnuts before coating in chocolate.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg