It is almost impossible to find healthy sweet treats that don't contain a bunch of dubious ingredients. This raw chocolate date bar recipe was created by Ayanda Gumede of @healthfulliving. Perfect for satisfying a sweet craving, these bars are delicious and chewy, quick to prepare, include minimal ingredients, have no added sugar, and can be enjoyed by the whole family. They are particularly helpful if you are going on a hike or a long run and want a source of quick energy in whole food form. The recipe uses raw cacao for the chocolate flavour which has been shown to improve mental performance and mood.
Ingredients
1Cup raw almonds
1 1/3 Cups pitted dates
¼ Cup raw almond nut butter
¼ Cup raw unsweetened cacao
1tsp vanilla extract
2 TBSP crushed nuts and goji berries (for topping)
Method
Using a food processor, start by adding the raw almonds and dates and process until smooth.
Thereafter, add the remaining ingredients (except for topping ingredients) and process until the mixture turns into a ball.
Remove from the food processor and place in a square pan which has been lined with parchment paper and press down firmly till you have an even base.
Cover and place in refrigerator for 1 hour.
After the hour, remove the bars from the fridge and cut into preferred pieces/ sizes.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge.