Date and Seed Bars

Cooking is something that brings me joy! I get excited to try a new recipe or make a few changes to a tried-and-true No Bake Date Delights Energy Bar Recipe.This recipe allows for customization in flavor profiles and well as presentation. You can make them in squares, rectangles, use a cookie cutter, or even roll into balls. Have fun! Play with your food! Make cooking fun!

Recipe:

• 2 cups pitted dates (I get mine from Futterman Farms)
• 1 cup nuts of choice (I used peanut this time)
• 1 cup oats (I use gluten free)
• 1 serving SunWarrior Classic Plus Chocolate Flavor Plant Based Protein
• 1/4 cup pepitas/hemp seeds to garnish top - optional

Options:

• Substitute 1 TSP vanilla flavoring or vanilla protein powder for the chocolate protein powder
• Substitute I TSP coconut flavoring for the chocolate protein powder and ADD 1/4 cup dried cranberries and 1/4 cup coconut 

Instructions:

• Combine 1/2 of the ingredients at a time in a Vitamix and blend until a paste is formed. 
• Add the "dough" to a glass pan and flatten with the flat end of a spatula
• Sprinkle the seeds to the top and push into the bar with the flat end of a spatula
• Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes
• Cut into bars the size of your choice

NOTE: From time to time, the mixture can be extra moist depending on the moisture of the dates you are using. When the mixture is extra moist, the bar "dough" could bunch up and stop the mixture. If this happens, use a spatula and remove the mixture from the Vitamix. After a few minutes, add 1/2 back at a time and pulse until a thick smooth paste.  Add a bit more oatmeal if necessary. Each batch of dates is different!