Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (200g) Medjool dates, pitted
  • 1/2 cup (125g) creamy almond butter
  • 2 tbsp (30ml) maple syrup
  • 1 tsp (5ml) vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp (1.5g) fine sea salt
  • 1 1/2 cups (150g) old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 3 tbsp (36g) chia seeds
  • 1/4 cup (25g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/4 cup (35g) mini dark chocolate chips

Instructions:

  1. Place the pitted dates in the food processor and pulse until they form a thick, sticky paste.
  2. Add the almond butter, maple syrup, vanilla, and salt to the processor; process again until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
  3. Transfer the date paste to a large mixing bowl. Stir in the rolled oats, chia seeds, and cocoa powder.
  4. Fold the mixture with a spatula until the oats are completely coated and no dry cocoa pockets remain. Fold in chocolate chips if using.
  5. Line an 8x8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
  6. Transfer the dough to the pan and press down firmly using the back of a spoon or a flat measuring cup.
  7. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before slicing into 12 rectangles.