Description
Make homemade candy bars using dates for a chewy, caramel-like layer. These bars feature a simple nut base, a sweet date filling, and a chocolate coating.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup raw almonds or peanuts
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup pitted Medjool dates, packed
- 1/4 cup peanut butter (or almond butter)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup chopped peanuts (for filling)
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
Instructions
- Line an 8×4 inch loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- Prepare the base: In a food processor, pulse the almonds (or peanuts), oats, and salt until the mixture resembles coarse sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Prepare the date caramel: Soak the pitted dates in hot water for 5 minutes to soften them, then drain well.
- In the food processor (no need to clean it), combine the softened dates, peanut butter, and vanilla extract. Process until a smooth, thick paste forms. Scrape down the sides as needed.
- Stir the chopped peanuts into the date mixture by hand. Spread this filling evenly over the base layer in the pan.
- Place the pan in the freezer for at least 30 minutes to allow the layers to firm up.
- Prepare the chocolate topping: In a small microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
- Pour the melted chocolate over the chilled date layer, spreading it evenly.
- Return the pan to the freezer for 1 hour, or until the chocolate is completely set.
- Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the block out of the pan. Slice into 10 to 12 bars before serving.
Notes
- Use Medjool dates for the best soft, caramel texture. If your dates are dry, soak them longer.
- For a Paleo version, use only almonds and ensure your chocolate is dairy-free.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer.
- Prep Time: 20 min
- Cook Time: 5 min
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 22
- Sodium: 65
- Fat: 18
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Unsaturated Fat: 13
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 28
- Fiber: 4
- Protein: 7
- Cholesterol: 0