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–+ servings
Stack of 3 chocolate energy bars.
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4.80 from 29 votes

No-Bake Chocolate Chia Energy Bars

These double chocolate energy bars are a serious crowd-pleaser. They take just minutes to prepare in a food processor and after setting in the freeze, you'll have delicious, homemade energy bars ready to enjoy.
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 mix 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 square 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