The holiday season is a time for connection, celebration and yes, indulgence. While there are many temptations around, being mindful of what we eat can help us feel energized.
My quest for healthy and easy recipes, especially desserts is never ending. Sharing them with you gives me great happiness.
This is a simple four-ingredient, no-bake and no sugar recipe for those moments when the sweet tooth cannot wait. I really love the flavor, the basic healthy ingredients, and the overall simplicity of not having to bake.
Ingredients
Serves 16
Crust and Crumble Topping
- 3 cups walnuts (not roasted or salted)
- 8 soft Medjool dates , pits removed
- 3 tablespoons coconut oil , melted
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
Chocolate Filling
- ⅓ cup cacao or cocoa powder
- ⅓ cup maple syrup, at room temperature
- ¼ cup coconut oil, melted
Instructions
- In a 12-cup food processor fitted with an S-blade, combine the walnuts, pitted dates, coconut oil, and salt. Secure the lid and process until the dates have broken down and the mixture sticks together when pressed between your fingers. Reserve ¾ cup of this crumble mixture for the topping.
- Lightly spray an 8-inch square pan with oil then press a piece of parchment paper into the bottom. This will make the bars easier to remove later. Transfer the rest of the crumble mixture to the prepared pan and flatten it evenly to create a crust.
- In a medium bowl, prepare the chocolate filling. Add the cacao powder, maple syrup, and coconut oil, then use a whisk to stir well. The filling may thicken up if your kitchen is cold, but that’s okay! Transfer it to the pan and spread it evenly over the crust.
- Sprinkle the reserved crumble topping over the chocolate layer. Use your hands to press it into the chocolate gently, then place the pan in the freezer. Let the bars chill for 1 hour. Once they’re firm, use the parchment paper to remove the bars and slice them into 16 squares. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is for 1 of 16 bars. This information is automatically calculated and just an estimate, not a guarantee. These bars can be sliced smaller for a lower-calorie treat.
Calories: 217kcal | Carbohydrates: 9g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 21g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 10g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Sodium: 74mg | Potassium: 143mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 5IU | Vitamin C: 0.3mg | Calcium: 32mg | Iron: 1mg
I hope you enjoy these tasty treat as much as I do! Check out more of my favorite recipes.