Imagine sinking your teeth into a decadent, creamy bar that's not only incredibly delicious but also completely dairy-free and packed with wholesome ingredients. These Non-Dairy Caramel Crunch Bars are about to revolutionize your snack game, offering a perfect blend of sweet, nutty, and chocolatey flavors that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you're a vegan, health-conscious foodie, or simply looking for a mind-blowing treat, this recipe is your ticket to snack paradise!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Vegan
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup dates, pitted
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts
- 1/4 cup dairy-free chocolate chips
Instructions
- Prepare your baking equipment by lining a 8x8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring some overhang for easy removal.
- In a food processor, combine pitted dates and rolled oats. Pulse until the mixture becomes a sticky, crumbly consistency that holds together when pressed.
- Add almond butter and maple syrup to the date-oat mixture. Process until the ingredients are fully incorporated and form a smooth, cohesive base.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan. Use clean hands or a spatula to press the mixture firmly and evenly across the bottom of the pan, creating a compact base layer.
- In a separate bowl, mix chopped nuts and dairy-free chocolate chips. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the pressed base, gently pressing the toppings into the surface.
- Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for approximately 15-20 minutes to help the bars set and become firm.
- Remove from refrigerator and use the parchment paper overhang to lift the entire block out of the pan. Place on a cutting board.
- Using a sharp knife, cut into 12 even bars. For clean cuts, wipe the knife between each slice.
- Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For best texture, let sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips
- Dates are the secret weapon in this recipe - make sure they're soft and pitted for the smoothest base possible. If they seem dry, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes before using.
- Use a food processor with a sharp blade to ensure your base mixture becomes smooth and well-integrated. Pulse in short bursts to maintain the right texture.
- When pressing the mixture into the pan, use the back of a spatula or clean hands with a light touch of oil to prevent sticking and create an even layer.
- For extra crunch, toast your nuts lightly in a dry pan before chopping and adding to the topping mix.
- Chill the bars completely before cutting to ensure clean, precise edges. A sharp knife wiped clean between cuts will give you professional-looking results.
- Experiment with different nuts and dairy-free chocolate chips to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
- These bars store beautifully in the refrigerator, making them a perfect make-ahead snack for busy weeks.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
