Vanilla Almond Date Bars (Printable Version)
Chewy, naturally sweet bars combining dates, almonds, and vanilla for a wholesome grab-and-go treat.
# Ingredient List:
→ Base
01 - 2 cups pitted Medjool dates
02 - 1 1/2 cups raw almonds
03 - 1/2 cup rolled oats (certified gluten-free if needed)
04 - 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
→ Flavor
05 - 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
→ Optional Toppings
06 - 1 tablespoon chia seeds
07 - 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
# How to Make It:
01 - Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing overhang on sides for easy removal later.
02 - Pulse almonds and oats in a food processor until finely chopped but not powdered.
03 - Add dates, salt, and vanilla extract. Process until mixture becomes sticky and forms a rough dough. If too dry, add 1-2 teaspoons water and pulse again.
04 - Press mixture firmly and evenly into prepared pan. Sprinkle chia seeds and shredded coconut on top if using, pressing lightly to adhere.
05 - Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until firm.
06 - Lift bars from pan using parchment overhang. Transfer to cutting board and cut into 12 bars.
07 - Store in an airtight container in refrigerator for up to 1 week or freeze individually wrapped.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- No baking required just press and chill which means your kitchen stays cool
- The dates provide all the natural sweetness you need without any refined sugar
- They actually stay intact in your bag instead of becoming a sad crumbled mess
02 -
- Warm the dates in the microwave for 30 seconds before processing if they seem hard or dry
- Press the mixture into the pan with serious conviction because loose bars fall apart when you cut them
- These must stay refrigerated or they become too soft to handle neatly
03 -
- Toast the almonds beforehand for a deeper nutty flavor that makes these taste baked
- Weighing your ingredients instead of using cup measures gives more consistent results every time