Description
This Guilt-Free Snickers-Inspired Dessert is your answer to satisfying sweet cravings without compromising your health. Made with wholesome ingredients like dates, peanut butter, and oats, these bars are naturally sweet, chewy, and irresistibly nutty. Whether you’re looking for a midday snack or a healthier alternative to a candy bar, these bites are sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 6 ounces (170 grams) pitted dates (soft and fresh)
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter (unsweetened and creamy preferred)
- A pinch of salt
- 1 cup chopped oatmeal (about 90 grams, can use rolled oats)
- 2.1 ounces (60 grams) salted peanuts (lightly crushed for texture)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Date Base
- Place the pitted dates in a food processor.
- Blend until the dates form a thick, sticky paste. If the dates are too dry, add 1 teaspoon of water to help achieve the desired consistency.
Step 2: Add Peanut Butter and Salt
- Add the peanut butter and a pinch of salt to the date paste in the food processor.
- Blend until the mixture is smooth and well combined. The peanut butter gives a creamy, rich flavor that mimics the classic caramel-like texture of a Snickers bar.
Step 3: Incorporate the Oats
- Transfer the date mixture to a large mixing bowl.
- Add the chopped oatmeal and mix well until fully incorporated. The oats add structure and chewy texture to the dessert.
Step 4: Fold in the Salted Peanuts
- Fold the salted peanuts into the mixture, ensuring they are evenly distributed. The peanuts provide a salty crunch that balances the sweetness of the dates and richness of the peanut butter.
Step 5: Shape into Bars
- Line a small baking dish or pan with parchment paper.
- Press the mixture evenly into the dish, ensuring it’s compact and smooth. You can use the back of a spatula or your hands to press it firmly.
Step 6: Chill and Set
- Place the baking dish in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or until the mixture is firm to the touch.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the mixture from the dish and cut it into bars, squares, or bite-sized pieces.
- Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Notes
- Soften the Dates: If your dates are dry, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes before blending. Drain them thoroughly before use.
- Peanut Butter: Use unsweetened peanut butter for a healthier option. Creamy peanut butter works best for blending.
- Customizable Add-Ins: Feel free to add a drizzle of melted sugar-free dark chocolate over the bars before chilling for an extra indulgent touch.
- Storage: These bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week or frozen for up to three months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American