These Healthy Date Bars are naturally sweetened with Medjool dates, maple syrup, and coconut sugar, making them a delicious refined sugar-free snack or dessert! Packed with fiber and wholesome oats, these bars are soft, chewy, and perfect for meal prep.
Oat Crust & Topping:
2 cups quick oats
⅓ cup melted coconut oil
⅓ cup water (plus more if needed)
1 cup coconut sugar (or brown sugar)
1 cup whole wheat flour (or any flour)
2 tsp vanilla extract
1½ tsp cinnamon powder
Date Filling:
1½ cups pitted Medjool dates
¼ cup maple syrup (or honey)
½ cup water
½ cup cocoa powder (optional)
1. Preheat & Prep:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Make the Oat Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine oats, coconut oil, coconut sugar, flour, cinnamon, and vanilla extract.
Add water and mix with your hands until a sticky dough forms. If the mixture is too dry, add a little more water.
Press half of the oat mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
3. Prepare the Filling:
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine dates, maple syrup, and water.
Stir for 3-5 minutes until the dates soften and a thick, chunky filling forms.
Stir in cocoa powder (if using) for a chocolatey twist.
4. Assemble & Bake:
Spread the date filling evenly over the oat base.
Top with the remaining oat mixture, gently pressing it down.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown.
5. Cool & Serve:
Let cool completely before slicing into bars. Enjoy!
Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days at room temperature or refrigerate for longer freshness.
For a crunchier texture, bake an extra 5 minutes.
Add chopped walnuts or almonds for extra crunch.
Find it online: https://easyfoodflash.com/healthy-date-bars/