RAH-RAH-RAW BARS!

I made these bars by Food 52 yesterday and knew I had to immediately share. I am always on the lookout for a healthier dessert for those times when I can't kick my sugar cravings and/or when I need to bring a delicious (and EASY) dessert to a party or potluck. These win on many levels - they are raw, vegan, no-bake, super moist, and pack a punch -- a small square goes a long way!

FOOD 52'S RECIPE

Makes about 20 (1 inch x 1 inch bite-size pieces)

INGREDIENTS

• 2 cups chopped pecans (I used an 8 oz bag of chopped pecans from Whole Foods which worked beautifully)

• 2 cups pitted Medjool dates

• 2 tablespoons coconut oil

• 1/3 cup nut butter (I used smooth raw almond butter)

• ¼ cup unsweetened shredded coconut

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla (or scrape the inside of one vanilla bean instead)

• 2 heaping tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder

• 1 tablespoon maple syrup (I used Steve’s Bees Forest Honey because it’s local and tastes AH-MAZ-ING).

• 1 pinch sea salt

PREPARATION

1. Pulse pecans in a food processor until crumbly, and then add dates. Pulse a few times until combined.

2. Add remaining ingredients and mix until well blended.

3. Press the mixture into a small wax- or parchment-lined dish or baking sheet with a lip (an 8 x 8-inch pan works well) until flat and even. Freeze for 30 minutes, and then slice.

4. Bars will keep easily in the refrigerator but I prefer the freezer. Separate layers with parchment paper.

5. Enjoy!! Rah-Rah-Raw!

#desserts #recipes