A fun, nutrient-packed treat designed by Dr. Kirsty Porter, paediatric dietitian with 16+ years’ experience supporting fussy and sensory eaters.
Chocolate cravings are real, but for parents of fussy or sensory-sensitive kids, it can be tricky to offer snacks that are tasty, fun, and nutritious. These Snicker Dates are the perfect solution — sweet, chocolatey, and easy for kids to make. They’re also a high-iron, high-fibre snack that sneaks in nutrition in a way children will enjoy.
Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack, a sensory-friendly treat, or a hands-on cooking activity with your little one, this recipe ticks all the boxes.
Why Snicker Dates Are Perfect for Fussy & Sensory Eaters
- Sweet and familiar flavours: Medjool dates and dark chocolate mimic the taste of a classic chocolate treat without overwhelming textures.
- High in fibre and iron: Dates are a great natural source of iron and fibre, which can help support digestion and energy.
- Customisable textures: Kids can choose their favourite crushed nuts, or leave them off if they prefer a smoother bite.
- Hands-on activity: This recipe allows children to participate in snack prep, which increases willingness to try new foods and boosts sensory confidence.
Snicker Bites
Ingredients
- Medjool dates pitted
- peanut butter 1 tpsn for every date
- Crushed nuts of choice e.g. peanut or pistacho
- dark chocolate 100g for 6-8 dates
- Optional Salt adults only!
- Can make into date bark
- ▪️10 dates sliced in half
- ▪️3 tbsp peanut butter
- ▪️125g of chocolate
- ▪️1/4 cup of pistachios or any nut you like
Instructions
- Place the pitted dates on top of a parchment lined baking sheet.
- Flatten with the bottom of a glass (it helps to put parchment paper between the glass and the date so it doesn’t stick).
- Melt dark chocolate in 30 second intervals.
- Top each flattened date with peanut butter, melted dark chocolate, and crushed nuts.
- Pop into fridge or freezer until the chocolate and peanut butter have set and enjoy!
- Can make a bark version of this & cut up into slices!
Tips for Fussy & Sensory Eaters
- Texture control: Skip nuts or chop them finely if your child struggles with crunchy textures.
- Involve kids in prep: Let children flatten the dates, sprinkle nuts, or drizzle chocolate — this boosts engagement and sensory exploration.
- Serve with a twist: Slice dates in half for bite-sized pieces or make the bark for a fun snack tray presentation.
- Adapt flavours: Swap peanut butter for almond or sunflower seed butter if there are allergies or sensory preferences.
Why This Snack Works
- High-iron and fibre: Dates contribute iron and fibre naturally, which is excellent for toddlers and children with limited diets.
- Controlled sweetness: Dark chocolate provides indulgence without the excess sugar of typical chocolate bars.
- Positive food experience: By making it together, children learn that food can be fun, safe, and tasty — reducing anxiety around new textures or flavours.
These Snicker Dates are an easy, nutrient-packed treat that children can help make, providing a fun, sensory-friendly way to enjoy chocolate. Perfect for lunchboxes, after-school snacks, or family cooking activities, they make healthy snacking simple and delicious — without the stress of fussy eating battles.
