Cut the dates open and remove the pits. [The amount listed in the ingredient section lists the weight after the pits have been removed.]
Cut the dates into pieces. Add the dates and the other ingredients to the chopped up nuts in the food processor.
Turn the food processor on and leave it running until all the ingredients are chopped into small pieces.
When squeezed together, the ingredients will form a firm paste. Knead the ingredients into a ball. Make sure all the ingredients are mixed homogenously. [If you like, you can brilliantly mix the ingredients using a flat beater. This will make them stick together better.]
Put the mixture into your baking pan and make sure it is spread out evenly. Press down on the paste to ensure there aren't any air bubbles. [See good to know section.]
Put your baking tin in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours so the bars can set. [See good to know section.]
Take the baking pan from your refrigerator and cut the slab into pieces.
Enjoy your Smooth Cocoa Bars!
Good to know
Storing: Make sure to store your bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator if you are not eating all of them right away.
Shelf life: Your bars will stay good for several weeks if stored correctly.
Freezing: You can freeze your bars in an airtight container or freezer bag for several months.
Letting the bars set: The bars are ready after two hours in the refrigerator but I recommend you let them sit overnight. The flavour of the bars will be even better!
Tip: To make sure that your bars are evenly flat, you can use a turner spatula to flatten the mixture.
Tip: If you are letting your bars set over-night, make sure to cover your bars with a layer of, parchment paper, otherwise the bars will dry out.
Tip: If your dates are rather dry, add a bit of water when you chop them up/puree them in your food processor. If they are too moist, however, your bars will be too soft. If they are too soft, just store them in your refrigerator without covering up the bars. This way, some of the moisture can evaporate out of the bars.
Tip: Warp your bars individually and then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Doing this will extend the shelf-life but will also make it easier to grab one when you are in a rush and want to pack a snack.
Working with dates: The taste and the mouthfeel of the dates are important. Make sure the dates you use are ripe. That means they should be soft when you squeeze them, and sticky on the inside when you cut them open. How ripe your dates are, will also influence the shelf life of your bars.
Nutritional Information per Portion
Nutrition Facts
Smooth Cocoa Bars
Amount Per Serving
Calories 93Calories from Fat 27
% Daily Value*
Fat 3g5%
Saturated Fat 1g6%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1g
Monounsaturated Fat 2g
Sodium 1mg0%
Potassium 172mg5%
Carbohydrates 16g5%
Fiber 2g8%
Sugar 12g13%
Protein 2g4%
Vitamin C 0mg0%
Calcium 0mg0%
Iron 0mg0%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.