A spin-off of my Peppermint Patty Bars, this time naturally sweetened with dates.
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yield: 12 small bars
Ingredients:
1 cup packed, pitted Medjool dates (approx 12)
1 cup rolled oats
2 tbsp cocoa powder
1/4 cup unflavoured protein powder (I use Garden of Life Raw)
1/4 tsp fine grain sea salt, or to taste
2 tbsp almond milk
1/2 tsp peppermint extract, or to taste
1/2 cup walnuts
1/4 cup almonds
1 tbsp raw millet (optional)
4 tbsp mini dark chocolate chips (I use Enjoy Life) or chopped chocolate
1-2 tbsp large flake unsweetened coconut, for garnish
1. Line a loaf pan with two pieces of parchment paper, one going each way. Set aside. In a food processor, process the pitted dates until chopped and sticky.
2. Add in the rolled oats, cocoa powder, protein powder, salt, peppermint extract, and almond milk. Process until combined, scraping down the side of the bowl as needed.
3. Finally, add in the nuts, optional millet, and chocolate chips and pulse until combined and sticky. It should be sticky enough to easily make a ball.
4. Crumble mixture all over prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle a handful of flaked coconut on top and press mixture into pan with slightly wet fingers. Cover with a piece of parchment paper and roll out smooth with a pastry roller.
5. Freeze for about 15 minutes or until set. Slice into 6 rows and then slice rows in half to make 12 small bars. I prefer these straight from the freezer.
Note: You want to use a very neutral-tasting protein powder here so it won’t impact the overall flavour. Alternatively, you can probably use hemp seeds for a kick of protein.
For nutritional info, see here.
I find these taste best straight out of the freezer – the peppermint flavour and sweetness is intensified when chilled.
Don’t have dates, but still want to make the bars? See my original version which uses maple syrup and organic brown sugar.