Healthy Date Candy Bars Recipe
Introduction
Healthy Date Candy Bars are a delicious and nutritious treat that combines natural sweetness with rich cocoa and crunchy nuts. Perfect for a quick snack or a guilt-free dessert, these bars are easy to make and require no baking.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dates, pitted
- 1 cup mixed nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, or cashews)
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
Instructions
- Step 1: Place the dates, nuts, and cocoa powder into a food processor.
- Step 2: Blend the ingredients until the mixture is sticky and holds together when pressed.
- Step 3: Press the blended mixture firmly into a lined or greased pan, spreading it evenly.
- Step 4: Chill the pan in the refrigerator for at least one hour to set.
- Step 5: Once firm, slice into bars and serve or store as desired.
Tips & Variations
- Try adding a pinch of sea salt or a splash of vanilla extract to enhance flavor.
- Swap the cocoa powder for shredded coconut or matcha powder for different tastes.
- Use your favorite nuts or a combination for varied texture and flavor.
Storage
Store these bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them in a sealed container for up to a month. Let thaw for a few minutes before enjoying.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use dried fruit other than dates?
Yes, you can substitute dates with dried figs or raisins, but dates provide the best stickiness and sweetness for binding the bars.
Do I need a food processor to make these bars?
A food processor is recommended for best texture and ease, but you can finely chop the ingredients and mix by hand if necessary, though the bars may be less cohesive.
PrintHealthy Date Candy Bars Recipe
These Healthy Date Candy Bars are a delicious and nutritious snack made with natural ingredients like dates, nuts, and cocoa powder. They’re easy to prepare, require no baking, and make a perfect energy-boosting treat that’s both sweet and satisfying.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 12 bars 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: International
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 cups pitted Medjool dates
- 1 cup mixed nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, and cashews)
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Ensure the dates are pitted and soft. If the dates are dry, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes then drain thoroughly.
- Blend the Mixture: In a food processor, combine the dates, mixed nuts, and cocoa powder. Blend until the mixture is sticky and holds together when pressed, scraping down the sides as needed to ensure even blending.
- Press into Pan: Line a small square pan with parchment paper. Transfer the blended mixture into the pan and press down firmly and evenly to create a compact layer.
- Chill to Set: Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the bars to firm up.
- Slice and Serve: Once chilled and firm, lift the mixture out using the parchment paper and slice into bars or squares. Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Notes
- Use pitted Medjool dates for the best texture and sweetness.
- You can customize the nuts based on preference or dietary restrictions.
- If the mixture is not sticky enough, add a tablespoon of water or nut butter to help it bind.
- Store bars in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze for longer storage.
- For an extra flavor boost, add a pinch of sea salt or a teaspoon of vanilla extract while blending.
Keywords: Healthy Date Candy Bars, no bake dessert, vegan snack, energy bars, date and nut bars, cocoa bars, healthy sweets
