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Vegan Chocolate Coconut Date Bars {GF, Oil-Free} Recipe

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4.1 from 7 reviews

These Vegan Chocolate Coconut Date Bars are a deliciously sweet and naturally gluten-free treat made without any oil. Combining the natural sweetness of medjool dates with shredded coconut, rich cacao powder, and a smooth layer of dark chocolate, these bars are perfect for a healthy snack or quick energy boost. Ready in just 20 minutes and easy to make using a food processor and microwave, they offer a wholesome, satisfying dessert that’s both vegan and oil-free.

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Base Ingredients

  • 1 cup pitted medjool dates, packed (about 11-12 dates)
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded unsweetened coconut
  • 3 tbsp cacao or cocoa powder
  • 1 1/4 tsp vanilla bean paste
  • 1/4 tsp pink Himalayan salt + an extra pinch

Topping

  • 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
  • Optional: extra shredded coconut for topping

Instructions

  1. Prepare the date mixture: Add all ingredients except the chocolate chips into a food processor. Pulse for about a minute or until the mixture becomes soft, moist, and slightly sticky, making sure there are no large pieces of dates left. If the mixture appears dry, continue pulsing. If your dates are dry or wrinkled, soak them in hot water for 10-15 minutes beforehand and drain thoroughly before processing.
  2. Form the base layer: Line a loaf pan with parchment paper. Transfer the date mixture into the pan and press it down firmly with your fingers or a spatula to form a tight, even layer that sticks together well. Set aside.
  3. Melt the chocolate: Place the dark chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly after each, for a total of about 1 minute and 30 seconds, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
  4. Assemble and chill: Pour the melted chocolate over the pressed date mixture in the loaf pan and spread it evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle extra shredded coconut on top if desired. Place the pan in the freezer for about 10 minutes or until the chocolate has set.
  5. Slice and store: Once the chocolate layer is hardened, slice the bars into servings. Store them covered in the refrigerator. Enjoy chilled or leave them at room temperature for a few minutes to soften before eating.

Notes

  • Use plump, sticky medjool dates for the best texture; soak dried dates to rehydrate.
  • The bars can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to one week.
  • For an extra coconut flavor, sprinkle unsweetened shredded coconut on top before freezing.
  • This recipe is naturally oil-free and gluten-free.
  • Make sure to press the base mixture firmly to help the bars hold together well.
  • Author: Maya
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Snack
  • Method: Blending
  • Cuisine: Vegan
  • Diet: Vegan, Gluten Free, Oil-Free

Find it online: https://recipeteach.com/vegan-chocolate-coconut-date-bars-gf-oil-free-recipe/