Date Bars

Ingredients

• 1 cup pitted dates, chopped
• 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
• 1/2 cup old-fashioned oats
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
• 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the chopped dates, walnuts, oats, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined.
3. Add the melted coconut oil and mix until everything is evenly coated. Spread the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and press down to form an even layer.
4. Bake for 15 minutes, or until golden brown. Allow to cool completely before cutting into bars.
5. Melt the dark chocolate chips and drizzle over the cooled bars. Allow the chocolate to set before serving.

Interesting Facts

• Dates are a good source of dietary fiber, iron, and potassium.
• Walnuts are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids.
• Coconut oil is a great source of healthy saturated fatty acids.
• Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants and can help improve heart health.