These date and peanut energy bars are a fantastic snack option for when you’re on the go or need a quick energy boost. Made with only a few wholesome ingredients, these bars are naturally sweetened by dates and have a satisfying crunch from roasted peanuts. They’re rich in protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making them a guilt-free treat that’s easy to prepare. With no added sugar or artificial ingredients, they’re a perfect snack for both adults and kids!

Preparation Time:

• • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Chill Time: 2 hours

• Total Time: 2 hours and 15 minutes

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.

Nutritional Benefits:

• • Dates are rich in fiber and natural sugars, providing a quick energy boost.
  • Peanuts add a healthy dose of protein, heart-healthy fats, and essential vitamins.

• Cocoa powder provides antioxidants and a rich chocolate flavor without added sugar.

Dietary Information:

• • Vegan
  • Gluten-Free

• Dairy-Free
• Contains nuts (peanuts).

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):

• • Calories: 200

• • Protein: 6g
  • Fat: 10g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g

• • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugar: 20g
  • Sodium: 2mg

Storage Tips:

• Store the bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
• They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Defrost at room temperature or in the fridge before eating.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• • These bars are quick and easy to make, requiring only 3 ingredients.

• • Naturally sweetened and free from processed sugars.
  • Perfect for meal prepping—make a batch and have snacks ready for the week.
  • Customizable—you can swap in different nuts or add ingredients like coconut or chia seeds.

Conclusion:

These date and peanut energy bars are a must-try for anyone looking for a simple, healthy, and delicious snack. With minimal effort, you can whip up a batch of nutrient-dense bars that will keep you fueled throughout the day. Perfect for busy mornings, workouts, or when you just need a sweet pick-me-up, these bars are a versatile addition to your kitchen. Once you try them, they’ll become a go-to recipe in your household!