NO-BAKE FRUIT AND NUT BARS
Twelve 2 × 2 ¾-inch bars
These “energy” bars are easy to make. Vary the flavor to your taste by substituting ½ cup dried cherries or raisins for an equal amount of the dates, using different kinds of nuts, adding spices, toasted coconut, or even chopped dark chocolate.
Line a 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper so the parchment extends over 2 sides. Pulse in a food processor until very finely ground:
- 1½ cups raw or roasted almonds, cashews, walnuts, or hazelnuts
Add:
- 2 cups packed moist dried dates, pitted and coarsely chopped
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- (½ cup cacao nibs)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Process until the mixture comes together and everything is finely ground. The mixture should be pasty enough to hold together when pressed into a ball. If it is too dry, add a tablespoon of water at a time until it comes together. Press it evenly into the prepared pan. Cut into bars and store in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Alternatively, you may roll the mixture into balls.