Dates, the sweet, deep brown fruit of the date palm tree, have a thick, sticky consistency resembling that of candied fruit. They are sometimes sold already pitted and chopped.
To chop dates:
Slit each date and pull out the pit. Slice with a chef's knife. Gather the slices and cut across into pieces. Or, snip with kitchen scissors. If the knife or blades become sticky, dip frequently in hot water, coat lightly with vegetable oil cooking spray, or wipe with oil.