Ingredients:
Dates: 3 ½ cups (500 g), pitted
Roasted peanuts: 2 cups (300 g), unsalted
Unsweetened cocoa powder: 2 tbsp (14 g)
Directions:
Step 1: Remove the pits from the dates and place them in a food processor.
Step 2: Process the dates until they form a smooth, sticky dough.
Step 3: In a separate food processor or using a knife, chop the roasted peanuts to your desired size (chunky or finely chopped).
Step 4: Mix the chopped peanuts into the date mixture.
Step 5: Add 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder to the mixture and combine well.
Step 6: Line a mold or a shallow tray with parchment paper. Choose the mold based on how thick you want the bars to be.
Step 7: Press the mixture firmly into the mold using your hands, then smooth the surface with the back of a spoon.
Step 8: Cover the mold and chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours.
Step 9: After 2 hours, remove the mold from the fridge and cut the mixture into bars or squares.
Step 10: Enjoy your homemade date and peanut energy bars!
Serving Suggestions:
Serve these bars as a quick snack, a pre- or post-workout bite, or pack them in lunch boxes.
For an indulgent twist, drizzle them with a bit of melted dark chocolate.
Cooking Tips:
If your dates are too dry, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes before processing.
You can replace peanuts with any other roasted nuts like almonds, walnuts, or cashews.
Adjust the thickness of the bars by choosing a deeper or shallower mold.
