Go Back
–+ servings
Stack of 3 chocolate energy bars.
Print Recipe
4.80 from 30 votes

No-Bake Chocolate Chia Energy Bars

These no-bake chocolate chia energy bars are chewy, chocolatey and easy to make with dates, walnuts, chia seeds, oats, coconut and dark chocolate. Prepare them in 10 minutes, then freeze until firm for a convenient homemade snack.
Prep Time10 minutes
Chill Time1 hour
Total Time1 hour 10 minutes
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: Gluten-Free, Vegan
Servings: 14 bars
Author: Deryn Macey

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups packed, soft pitted dates 350 g
  • ⅓ cup cocoa powder 35 g
  • 1/2 cup whole chia seeds 75 g
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut 45 g
  • 1 cup raw walnut pieces 125 g
  • 1/2 cup chopped dark chocolate 70 g
  • 1/2 cup rolled oats 50 g
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract optional, enhances flavour
  • 1/4 tsp sea salt optional, enhances flavour

Instructions

  • It's important to use soft, moist dates in this recipe. If your dates are on the dry side, place them in a bowl and cover with hot water. Soak for 15 minutes then drain well before using in the recipe. If you're unsure, it can't hurt to soak the dates first.
  • Add the walnuts to a food processor and blend until broken down into a grainy consistency. It's ok if there are some larger chunks left behind but they should resemble a coarse flour.
  • Add the dates and blend until the dates and walnuts form a thick, sticky paste.
  • Add the rest of the ingredients and process until it forms a thick dough. You should easily be able to press the dough together between your fingers. If it seems too crumbly (this can happen if the dates were dry), add 1-2 tbsp of warm water and process again.
  • Line a 7- or 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper so it sticks out over the sides of the pan. Use your hands to firmly press the mixture into the pan, taking a few minutes to make sure it's really pressed down, especially in the corners. You can wet your hands if it helps to smooth the top out.
  • Place in the freezer for at least 1 hour to firm.
  • Lift out of the pan using the edges of the parchment and cut into 14 bars.

Notes

Store in an air-tight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or freezer for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bar | Calories: 234kcal | Carbohydrates: 28g | Protein: 4.5g | Fat: 12g | Fiber: 7g | Sugar: 17g