47 min
Prep Time
45 min
Cook Time
Easy
Level
8
Servings

Sweetened with dates, these whole-grain bars provide energy and protein, thanks to nut butter. With just 5 ingredients you probably already have in your pantry, you can make these delicious, chewy brownies with no added sugar. Whip up a batch as a healthy dessert or for grab-and-go energy bars for a healthy snack.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup chopped Medjool dates

  • 1 cup rolled oats (see Tip)

  • 1 cup almond butter or other nut butter

  • ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Method

  1. Soak dates in hot water to cover in a medium bowl for 10 minutes. Drain, reserving the soaking water.

  2. Meanwhile, line an 8-inch-square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving extra hanging over 2 sides. Lightly coat with cooking spray.

  3. Process oats in a food processor until finely ground. Add the drained dates, nut butter, cocoa powder and salt; process until very finely chopped. If the mixture seems dry, add a little of the reserved soaking water, 1 tablespoon at a time. Spread the mixture evenly and firmly into the prepared pan. Refrigerate until cold, about 1 hour. Remove from the pan by lifting the overhanging parchment. Cut into 16 squares.