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No Bake Date Bars

These no bake date bars are a quick, wholesome treat that come together with minimal effort. Made from soft, caramel-like dates, toasted nuts, and oats, they develop a chewy, crunchy texture with a touch of sea salt and optional chocolate drizzle for added indulgence.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Healthy Snacks
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 200 g soft pitted dates roughly chopped if large
  • 1 cup toasted almonds or walnuts, lightly toasted
  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1 pinch sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil melted
  • optional dark chocolate for drizzling

Equipment

  • Food processor
  • 20cm (8-inch) square pan
  • parchment paper
  • Spatula
  • Knife

Method
 

  1. Begin by pitting the dates if they have pits, then roughly chop them for easier blending.
  2. Lightly toast the almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes until fragrant and golden, then let them cool slightly.
  3. Place the dates and toasted almonds into your food processor and pulse until the mixture becomes sticky, crumbly, and begins to hold together when pressed—about 30 seconds to a minute.
  4. Add the rolled oats, a pinch of sea salt, vanilla extract, and melted coconut oil to the processor. Pulse again until everything is evenly combined and the mixture is sticky and cohesive.
  5. Line your square pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. Transfer the mixture into the pan.
  6. Press the mixture firmly into the pan using the back of a spatula or your fingers, ensuring an even, compact layer that feels firm and smooth on top.
  7. Place the pan in the fridge and chill for at least 2 hours, or in the freezer for about 45 minutes, until the bars are firm and set.
  8. Once chilled, lift the slab out of the pan using the parchment overhang and slice into 12 even squares or bars.
  9. If desired, melt some dark chocolate and drizzle over the bars for an extra touch of indulgence. Let the chocolate set for about 20 minutes before serving.
  10. Enjoy the bars straight from the fridge for a chewy, satisfying treat. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.

Notes

For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or a handful of shredded coconut to the mixture before pressing into the pan.