No-Bake Nutty Chocolate Energy Bars with Cashew Cream Topping

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Table of Contents

For the Chocolate Base:
- - 150 g (5 oz) cashews, soaked in boiling water for 30–40 minutes
  - 100 g (3.5 oz) oats
  - 60 g (2 oz) dates, pitted
- - 1 tsp cocoa powder
  - 2 tbsp peanut butter (homemade or store-bought)
  - 50 g (1.7 oz) roasted peanuts, ground into paste (optional for peanut butter)
- - 1/2 cup mixed nuts (hazelnuts, almonds), roasted and peeled
  - 2 tbsp pumpkin seeds
  - 2 tbsp dried cranberries
- - 2 tbsp dried apricots, chopped
  - 1/4 tsp cinnamon (to taste)
  - 1/4 tsp ground ginger (to taste)
- 1 tbsp dried orange zest or fresh orange peel
For the Cashew Cream Topping:
- - 150 g (5 oz) soaked cashews (from above)
- - 80 ml (1/3 cup) vegetable milk (almond, oat, or coconut milk)
  - 40 ml (3 tbsp) coconut oil, melted
  - 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Base
- - Soak the cashews by pouring boiling water over them and letting them sit for 30–40 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- - Roast peanuts, hazelnuts, and almonds in a dry pan until golden. Peel the skins if necessary.
  - In a food processor, blend the oats, dates, cocoa powder, and peanut butter until sticky and combined. Add roasted nuts, seeds, and chopped dried fruits (apricots and cranberries).
  - Sprinkle cinnamon, ginger, and orange zest. Blend until the mixture sticks together. Adjust texture by adding more dates if too dry.
Step 2: Press and Chill the Base
- - Line a baking pan or dish with parchment paper.
  - Press the chocolate mixture firmly into the base, spreading it evenly.
- Place in the freezer while preparing the topping.
Step 3: Prepare the Cashew Cream Topping
- - Blend the soaked cashews, vegetable milk, coconut oil, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Add more milk if necessary to achieve a spreadable consistency.
- Spread the cashew cream evenly over the chocolate base. Smooth with a spatula.
Step 4: Freeze and Set
- - Freeze for at least 1 hour or until firm.
- Once set, cut into squares or bars.

Step 5: Decorate and Serve
- - Garnish with additional nuts, dried fruits, or a drizzle of melted chocolate if desired.
- Store in the freezer and remove 15 minutes before serving for the best texture.

5 Serving Suggestions

- Serve with a cup of herbal tea or coffee for a perfect snack.
- Top with fresh berries for added freshness.
- Sprinkle extra cocoa powder or cinnamon before serving.

Cooking Tips

- Use a high-speed blender or food processor to achieve a smooth cashew cream.
- For nut-free options, substitute sunflower seeds or tahini.
- Adjust sweetness by adding more dates or a drizzle of maple syrup.

Nutritional Benefits

- Cashews: Rich in healthy fats, magnesium, and protein.
- Oats: Provide fiber and keep you full longer.
- Dates: Natural sweeteners loaded with fiber and antioxidants.

Dietary Information

- Gluten-free (ensure oats are certified gluten-free).
- Dairy-free.
- No refined sugar.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)