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No-Bake Coconut Date Bars

These no-bake coconut date bars are a quick and wholesome treat that come together without any oven. Made primarily from dates, shredded coconut, and almond butter, they form a sticky, chewy, and fragrant bar with a tropical aroma. Perfect for busy mornings or a natural energy boost, their simple texture is both satisfying and versatile.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 12
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Healthy
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 ½ cups pitted dates soak if dry
  • ½ cup shredded coconut toasted or untoasted
  • ¼ cup almond butter or peanut butter
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ¼ tsp sea salt optional but recommended
  • Optional chopped nuts or chocolate chips for mix-ins or topping

Equipment

  • food processor
  • 20x20cm (8x8 inch) baking dish
  • Spatula or silicone scraper
  • Sharp knife
  • Parchment paper

Method
 

  1. Line your baking dish with parchment paper to make removing the bars easier later.
  2. If your dates are dry, soak them in warm water for about 10 minutes to soften, then drain thoroughly.
  3. Add the pitted dates and sea salt to your food processor, and blend until the mixture is sticky, smooth, and caramel-like, about 1-2 minutes. You should see a thick, cohesive paste.
  4. Scrape down the sides of the processor, then add the shredded coconut, almond butter, and vanilla extract. Pulse a few times until the mixture starts to come together but still has some small bits of coconut for texture.
  5. Transfer the sticky mixture to your prepared dish. Using a spatula or your fingers, press it down firmly and evenly into the dish, about an inch thick. This helps it set into a compact, chewy bar.
  6. If desired, sprinkle additional shredded coconut or chopped nuts on top and gently press them in for added texture and flavor.
  7. Place the dish in the fridge and chill for at least 2 hours until the mixture is firm and set.
  8. Once chilled, lift the mixture out of the dish using the parchment paper and place on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to cut into 12 even bars or squares.
  9. Serve immediately or store the bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the bars and thaw slightly before enjoying.

Notes

Feel free to customize with your favorite mix-ins, like chopped nuts or chocolate chips. Using hot water to slice the bars helps achieve clean edges. These bars are best enjoyed chilled, with their chewy texture and tropical aroma shining through.