Date and Nut Bars

Name: Date and Nut Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 75 min
Yield: 12 bars
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 2 cups pitted Medjool dates (about 20 dates); 1 1/2 cups mixed nuts (such as almonds and walnuts); 1 cup rolled oats (gluten-free if needed); 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (for vegan option); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

75 min 12 bars Easy

All Recipes

Date and Nut Bars

These chewy and satisfying date and nut bars are the perfect snack to fuel your day. Packed with natural sweetness and crunch, they are easy to make and delicious.

Prep

15 min

Total

75 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Date and nut bars are a wholesome and delicious treat that combines the natural sweetness of dates with the satisfying crunch of nuts. These bars make for a perfect on-the-go snack or a healthy dessert option. This version of date and nut bars is simple to prepare and doesn't require any baking, making it a convenient choice for busy individuals. With just a few ingredients, you can create a snack that's not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. Whether you're looking for a post-workout snack or a midday pick-me-up, these bars are sure to satisfy your cravings while keeping you energized.

Instructions

Prepare the dates

Place the pitted dates in a food processor and pulse until they form a sticky paste.

Pro tip: If the dates are dry, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes before processing.

Chop the nuts

Coarsely chop the mixed nuts using a knife or pulse in a food processor.

Pro tip: Ensure nuts are evenly chopped for consistent texture.

Combine ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the date paste, chopped nuts, rolled oats, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Pro tip: Use a spatula to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Press into pan

Line a 20 cm (8-inch) square baking pan with parchment paper. Press the mixture firmly into the pan using your hands or the back of a spoon.

Pro tip: Ensure the mixture is tightly packed to help the bars hold together.

Chill the bars

Refrigerate the bars for at least 1 hour to set.

Pro tip: For quicker setting, place the bars in the freezer for 30 minutes.

Cut and serve

Once set, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper. Cut into 12 bars and serve.

Pro tip: Use a sharp knife for clean cuts.

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Tips & Tricks

Use fresh Medjool dates for the best texture and sweetness.
Chop nuts evenly for uniform distribution.
Line your pan with parchment for easy removal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are date and nut bars?

Date and nut bars are a no-bake snack made from dates, nuts, and oats, often sweetened with honey or maple syrup.

How long do date and nut bars last?

Date and nut bars last up to a week in the refrigerator and can be frozen for up to a month.

Are date and nut bars healthy?

Yes, they are healthy as they contain natural sugars, healthy fats from nuts, and fiber from oats.

Can I make date and nut bars vegan?

Yes, use maple syrup instead of honey to make them vegan.

How do I know when date and nut bars are set?

The bars are set when they are firm to the touch after refrigerating for at least an hour.

Can I use other nuts in date and nut bars?

Yes, you can use any nuts you prefer, such as pecans, cashews, or a mix.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these date and nut bars as a snack or dessert. They're perfect for packing in lunchboxes or enjoying with a cup of tea. Pair them with a creamy Greek yogurt for a more substantial snack. Make these bars ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze them for up to a month to have them on hand whenever you need a quick treat.