Indulge in the perfect balance of sweetness and crunch with these no-bake Date and Nut Bars, a wholesome snack packed with natural energy! Made with nutrient-rich ingredients like pitted dates, rolled oats, and an assortment of chopped nuts, these bars are naturally sweetened with honey or maple syrup and held together by creamy peanut butter. A dash of chia seeds adds a boost of fiber and omega-3s, while optional mini chocolate chips provide just a hint of indulgence. Ready in just 15 minutes and requiring no oven time, these easy-to-make bars are perfect for meal prep, on-the-go breakfasts, or a satisfying post-workout treat. Refrigerate for a firm, chewy texture, and enjoy these homemade granola bars anytime you need a healthy yet delicious pick-me-up!
Line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal, and set aside.
In a food processor, blend the pitted dates into a paste-like consistency. If the dates are too dry, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes, then drain before processing.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped nuts, chia seeds, and salt.
In a microwave-safe bowl or small saucepan, gently heat the peanut butter and honey (or maple syrup) until smooth and pourable, about 20-30 seconds in the microwave or over low heat on the stove.
Stir in the vanilla extract to the peanut butter and honey mixture.
Add the date paste to the dry ingredients in the mixing bowl, followed by the warmed peanut butter mixture. Use a spatula or clean hands to mix everything thoroughly until evenly combined.
Fold in the mini chocolate chips if using.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, pressing it firmly and evenly into the pan with the back of a spatula or your hands.
Refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours, or until firm and set.
Once chilled, lift the bars out of the dish using the parchment paper overhang and cut into 12 equal bars.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 1 month.
Calories |
4516 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 202.8 g | 260% | |
| Saturated Fat | 36.8 g | 184% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.4 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1620 mg | 70% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 644.8 g | 234% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 77.8 g | 278% | |
| Total Sugars | 467.1 g | ||
| Protein | 111.6 g | 223% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 736 mg | 57% | |
| Iron | 21.2 mg | 118% | |
| Potassium | 6181 mg | 132% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.