Ingredients
- ½ cup raw almonds
- ½ cup walnuts
- ½ cup pitted dates
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- 3 teaspoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Ingredient Image
Why This Recipe Is So Popular
These bars are packed with wholesome ingredients that give you a quick boost of energy. The combination of chocolate and cranberries adds a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. They make a great snack for busy days or after a workout.
Pro Kitchen Tips
- Press the mixture firmly into the pan to help the bars hold together better.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the bars cleanly without crumbling.
- Feel free to swap dried cranberries for other dried fruits like cherries or raisins.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the bars cleanly without crumbling.
- Feel free to swap dried cranberries for other dried fruits like cherries or raisins.
Directions
Gently heat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a food processor, chop the almonds and walnuts until they’re broken down but still a bit chunky. Gradually add the dates and cranberries, pulsing as you go so everything mixes together nicely. Toss in the coconut, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract, then blend until the mixture reaches a texture you like—somewhere between crumbly and sticky. Shape the mixture into a log about 2 inches wide, then slice it into ten pieces, each roughly three-quarters of an inch thick. Arrange these on your prepared baking sheet and pop them in the oven for about 10 minutes, or until they’re firm to the touch. Let them cool a bit before enjoying!
Perfect Side Pairings
Enjoy these bars as a midday snack or a quick breakfast on the go. They pair nicely with a cup of tea or coffee. You can also crumble them over yogurt for added texture and flavor.
How To Keep It Fresh
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer freshness, keep them in the fridge where they will last for about two weeks. You can also freeze them individually wrapped for up to three months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other nuts instead of almonds and walnuts?
Yes, you can substitute with pecans, cashews, or any nuts you prefer. Just keep the same quantity.
How do I store these bars to keep them fresh?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Can I make these bars without a food processor?
You can chop the nuts and dates finely by hand, but a food processor makes the process much easier and helps bind the ingredients.
Are these bars suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, all ingredients listed are vegan-friendly.
Can I add other ingredients like seeds or coconut flakes?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in chia seeds, flaxseeds, or shredded coconut for extra texture and nutrition.
What if I don’t have unsweetened cocoa powder?
You can use regular cocoa powder or omit it for a different flavor, but it will change the taste slightly.
How firm should the bars be after baking?
They should be firm to the touch but still slightly chewy on the inside.
Can I make these bars nut-free?
To make them nut-free, try replacing nuts with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds, but the texture and taste may vary.
