These delicious, layered, plant-based, dessert bars are made from the classic chocolate & peanut butter combo (and infused with lots of love)! A nutty crust layer, thick peanut butter layer, and topped with chocolate - it's a must try sweet treat! Make a batch to serve and share or store in the freezer for when chocolate cravings come! This vegan dessert uses wholesome and minimal ingredients to support a healthy lifestyle! Plant-based abundance, not deprivation!
Vegan I Gluten-Free
Serves: 9 - 12 bars
Time: 20 minutes + 4 hours freezing time
Crust
1 cup dates, pitted & soaked
1 cup almonds
1/4 cup coconut shreds
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/4 - 1/2 tsp. salt
Filling
1 heaping cup peanut butter
3/4 cup coconut flour
1/3 cup maple syrup or honey
Chocolate
1/2 cup coconut oil
1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
1/4 cup cacao powder
Pinch of salt
Line a 9x9 container or pan with parchment paper. Set aside.
Pit and soak the dates until soft, 10 - 20 minutes. Reserve the date water. Set aside.
To prepare the crust - Place all the crust ingredients, except for the dates, into a food processor or blender. Mix until the nuts are broken down into small pieces. Add the dates and mix again, until a sticky mixture forms. Add reserved date water, 1 tbsp. at a time, until consistency is reached. Stop and scrape down the sides as needed.
Transfer the crust mixture into the prepared container. Use a spatula to create an even layer. Place it in the fridge while you prepare the filling.
To prepare the peanut butter filling - Place the filling ingredients into a large mixing bowl. Use a spatula to mix the ingredients until evenly combined.
Transfer the filling mixture over the crust. Spread out into an even layer.
Place the bars back into the fridge to set while preparing the chocolate layer.
To prepare the chocolate layer - Combine all ingredients in a small mixing bowl and stir to combine. Pour the mixture over the peanut butter layer. Place the bars in the freezer for 4+ hours for the chocolate to harden and the bars to set.
To serve - Slice the bars and enjoy!
To store - Keep leftovers in the fridge for 5 - 7 days or in the freezer 1+ month!
