Fresh Cacao Chewy Bars (Printable Version)
Rich and chewy bars with raw cacao, nuts, and dates for a naturally sweet and energizing bite.
# What You'll Need:
→ Base
01 - 1 cup raw walnuts (120 g)
02 - 1 cup raw almonds (120 g)
03 - 2 cups pitted Medjool dates (300 g)
04 - 1/2 cup raw cacao powder (50 g)
05 - 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
→ Optional Add-Ins
06 - 1/4 cup cacao nibs (30 g)
07 - 1/4 cup shredded unsweetened coconut (30 g)
08 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
# How To Make:
01 - Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
02 - Pulse walnuts and almonds in a food processor until finely chopped but not powdery.
03 - Add dates, cacao powder, and sea salt to the nuts and process until the mixture clumps and sticks when pressed between fingers.
04 - If using, add cacao nibs, shredded coconut, or vanilla extract and pulse briefly to mix.
05 - Press the mixture evenly and firmly into the prepared pan.
06 - Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow bars to set.
07 - Remove set mixture from pan, cut into 12 bars, and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- It feels like sharing a secret because these bars are naturally sweet without any added sugars and perfect for a guilt-free snack
- Once you make them, you’ll love how simple and fast they come together, becoming a reliable go-to for unexpected hunger
02 -
- Make sure not to over-process the nuts into powder; that little texture makes all the difference in the mouthfeel
- Discovering that chilling the bars longer than an hour helps them slice cleanly and hold their shape better was a game changer
03 -
- Use ripe, soft Medjool dates to get that perfect sticky texture; dryer dates will need a bit more processing or soaking
- Pressing the mixture firmly before chilling ensures the bars stay together without crumbling every time