A fudgy, satisfying, good-for-you snack? These easy chocolate energy bars are all that!
These chewy, delicious bars need only six ingredients and a few minutes to pull together. They are gluten free, refined sugar free and vegan.
And talk about versatile! Swap the almond butter for your favorite nut or seed butter (we love tahini!). And the pistachios and cherries can be substituted with any nuts, fruits and seeds that you prefer – keep the total amount to about 1/2 cup!
Easy Chocolate Energy Bars:
- 1 cup chopped or whole pitted dates
- 1 1/2 cups oats
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
- 1/4 cup dried unsweetened cherries
- 1/4 cup almond butter
Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on both sides.
Place the dates with 1/2 cup of water into a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring and mashing occasionally, till the dates are completely broken down and have a paste-like consistency. Let cool till warm.
Stir the oats, cocoa powder, pistachios and cherries together in a large bowl. Add the date paste and almond butter and stir till well combined.
Transfer the mixture to your prepared pan and press to form an even layer. Freeze overnight before cutting into bars or squares. Store covered in the fridge.
