JR Date Bar

I have been searching for the formula to create my own date snack bars and finally hit the jackpot. The recipe allows you to customize the bars to create the flavor profile you desire. You can wrap them in Saran Wrap or Aluminum Foil (I prefer non-stick), carry them in a Ziplock baggie, or carry with you in a small plastic "tupperware" type of container.

The bars have two simple ingredients and the third or fourth is the flavor profile you create. The recipe is so simple you will be making these quite often! The most challenging part of this recipe is that the bars need to be refrigerated for at least 30 minutes to "set". Patience is required prior to "digging in".

Enjoy these energy bars before, during, or after a workout or as a simple mid-day snack.

Base Ingredients:
1 Cup of Dates (I get mine from Futterman Farms) - pitted and diced
2 Cups of Nuts - your choice to use one nut or a mix to create the flavor profile of your choice
1/3 Cup Flavor Ad-Ins

Step 1:

• Place nuts in a VitaMix or a food processor and pulse until they break up and BEGIN to form a paste. You want to keep some chunks and stop processing PRIOR to creating Nut Butter.
• Add dates and continue to pulse to combine.

Step 2:
Add 1/3 Cup of Flavor Add-Ins and pulse to combine.
Add-Ins can include:
Dried Cranberries (pictured)
Dried Cherries and Coconut
Dark Chocolate Pieces + 2 TBSP Nutella
Dried Diced Apple + 2 TBSP Cinnamon
Dried Diced Apricot + 1 TBSP Almond Flavoring

Step 3:

• Transfer JR Date Bar Mixture from VitaMix or food processor and place in an 8x8 glass pan. I suggest using spray olive oil or parchment paper or Saran Wrap to coat the pan so the date bars do not stick. 
• Cover the pan and place it in the refrigerator to cool for at least 30 minutes. 
• Cut the bars to the size you desire and enjoy!