As the weather warms up, we tend to seek out more energy-packed snacks that we can easily take on the go, whether for hiking, camping, or simply hangouts in the park.
But let’s be honest, we love snacks year-round, especially chocolaty ones like this that are filled with nourishing ingredients like oats and nuts.
Using dates as the base, these easy bars require no additional sweetener — minus the rich layer of dark chocolate on top, which is more than worth all the sugar it contains. Feel free to exclude the cayenne, or incorporate it for a nice little kick.
Enjoy as a snack, or for breakfast or dessert.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Oat Energy Bars
- April 20, 2022
- Serves 6
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Ingredients
- 1/2 cup oats
- 1/2 cup dates
- 1/2 cup + 1 Tbsp. crunchy peanut butter, divided (use a brand without sugar)
- 1/3 cup cocoa powder
- 1 Tbsp. coconut oil
- 1/4 tsp. salt
- 1/4 tsp. cayenne, optional
- 1/3 cup dark chocolate chips
Directions
- Step 1
- In a food processor, combine oats, dates, 1/2 cup peanut butter, cocoa powder, coconut oil, salt, and cayenne, if using. Process until fairly smooth and mixture is well combined. In an 8-inch by 5-inch container (or a container close to that size), press mixture into a uniform layer.
- Step 2
- In a heatproof mixing bowl, combine chocolate chips and remaining 1 Tbsp. peanut butter. Place bowl over a pot of simmering water, and melt chocolate until smooth, stirring continuously. Remove from heat, and pour mixture atop the oat-date-peanut-butter bars. Spread until smooth.
- Step 3
- Refrigerate for one hour, or until chocolate is set. Remove from fridge. Enjoy.
