Description
These Chewy Date Granola Bars are the perfect balance of sweetness and crunch, with the natural sweetness of dates and a delightful combination of oats, almonds, and coconut. Packed with fiber, healthy fats, and protein, they make a great snack for any time of the day, and you can customize them with chocolate for an extra treat!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 ¾ cups quick-cooking oats
- 1 cup raw sliced almonds
- 1 cup shredded coconut flakes
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds or flax seeds
- 1 cup pitted dates, roughly chopped (soaked if needed, see notes)
- ½ cup creamy natural peanut butter or almond butter
- ¼ cup honey or pure maple syrup
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 3 ounces dark chocolate (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dates: If your dates are dry, soak them in warm water for about 10 minutes to soften. Drain well before using.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, sliced almonds, shredded coconut flakes, and chia seeds (or flax seeds). Stir to combine.
- In a separate microwave-safe bowl, warm the peanut butter (or almond butter), honey (or maple syrup), salt, and cinnamon in the microwave for 20-30 seconds until it can be easily stirred together. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Add the chopped dates to the wet ingredients and mix until the dates are coated in the peanut butter mixture.
- Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir everything together until fully combined and sticky.
- Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper and press the mixture into the dish firmly to form an even layer.
- If using dark chocolate, melt it in the microwave or over a double boiler. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the pressed granola mixture or spread it evenly over the top.
- Place the granola bars in the refrigerator for about 1-2 hours, or until set and firm.
- Once chilled, cut into bars or squares and store in an airtight container for up to a week.
Notes
- If your dates are too firm, soaking them in warm water for 10-15 minutes will soften them and make them easier to chop.
- These bars can be made with peanut butter or almond butter, depending on your preference.
- For a nut-free version, you can use sunflower seed butter or a similar alternative.
- The chocolate drizzle is optional, but it adds a delicious touch!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American