Coconut Date Bars

These bars are like a homemade version of a certain famous date bar, but better because you know exactly what is in them. The base is just dates and coconut processed together until sticky and dense, with cacao powder adding a subtle chocolate note. Press them into a pan, chill, and slice. That is the whole recipe.

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups unpitted Medjool dates, pitted (about 15 dates)
  • 1 cup medium shredded coconut, plus extra for topping
  • 2 tbsp cacao powder
  • 1 tbsp coconut oil, melted
  • Pinch of Redmond Real Salt

*Bolded ingredients are products we typically carry at Tare Bulk Foods.

Directions

  1. Pit the dates and add them to a food processor. Pulse until they form a thick, sticky paste.
  2. Add the shredded coconut, cacao powder, coconut oil, and salt. Process until the mixture is well combined and holds together when pressed.
  3. Line a small baking dish or loaf pan with parchment paper. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan.
  4. Sprinkle extra shredded coconut on top and press it gently into the surface.
  5. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until firm, then slice into bars.

Notes

  • If the dates are dry and hard, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes and drain before processing.
  • Add 1/4 cup California almonds (raw) to the food processor for a nuttier texture.
  • Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. They soften quickly at room temperature, so keep them chilled.