Pin it
No-bake superfood squares are my go-to treat whenever I'm short on time but want something sweet and nourishing. The sweetness from dates mixed with a burst of chocolate and bits of nuts makes the perfect mix—think somewhere between a fudgy brownie and an energy bar.
I started stashing these bars in my pack for long hikes, and now my friends insist I bring a batch every time we hit the trail. They started because I wanted a healthy swap for packaged energy bars and quickly became everyone’s snack pick for outdoor adventures.
Ingredients
- Medjool dates, pitted: these bring natural sweetness and make everything stick together
- Raw nuts: they add some healthy richness and a bit of buttery flavor
- Raw pecan halves: pecans give a gentle texture and mild nutty taste
- Unsweetened shredded coconut: makes it a little chewy and brings in a soft tropical note
- Chopped dried cranberries: for a pop of color and a tangy bite
- Chia seeds: toss in some omega-3s and a gentle crunch
- Virgin coconut oil, melted: helps bring it all together and firms up when cold
- Dark chocolate for topping: that smooth, glossy layer makes it feel extra special
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: adds plenty of rich, chocolatey depth
- Pistachios (shelled): bring that bright green color and their unique taste
- Fine sea salt: sharpens the sweetness and balances everything out
- Pure vanilla extract: takes the flavor to a whole new level
Simple Step-by-Step Directions
- Cut and Enjoy:
- Once the bars are solid, shake on some flaky sea salt for sweet and salty vibes. Slice into eight even pieces. Dive in right away or stash leftovers in the freezer.
- Add the Crunchy Bits:
- Gently pulse in the cranberries and the rest of your pistachios just enough to break them up, but don’t totally crush them. Press the mix firmly into a parchment-lined loaf pan to make it nice and level.
- Chocolate Layer:
- Melt the dark chocolate in a small pan over low heat, stirring until smooth. Pour it over the base and tilt the pan so you get a nice, even sheet of chocolate on top.
- Let It Set:
- Top the bars off with extra pistachios, cranberries, and some chopped pecans for a crunchy finish. Toss the pan in the freezer for about 20-45 minutes, or until it’s set and firm. That chill time really brings all the flavors together.
- Mix in the Boosts:
- Add coconut, chia seeds, cocoa powder, coconut oil, and vanilla. Blend again till it starts to clump a bit. If it’s too crumbly, a splash of warm water will help everything come together without making it sticky.
- Start the Base:
- Toss your dates, pecans, raw nuts, and half the pistachios in a food processor. Pulse until it’s all pretty even but still a little chunky. Don’t overblend—the goal is some bite left in there.
Must-Know Facts
- Stuffed with filling fiber and feel-good fats
- Great energy boost that keeps you going
- Always vegan, always gluten free
- Sweet tooth friendly, guilt not included
The pistachios in these squares totally steal the show for me. I once brought a batch to a picnic and even healthy-eating skeptics were hooked—they wanted the how-to right away.
Best Ways to Store
Pop these bars in a sealed container in your freezer—they’ll keep for up to a month. Stick some parchment paper between layers so they don’t glob together. Let them sit out for about 5 minutes before digging in so you get the best, chewy bite.
Switch It Up
Swap pistachios out for almonds for a more classic vibe. Add goji berries for extra antioxidants, or try a few drops of orange or mint oil in the topping chocolate for a pop of fresh flavor. Change it up based on whatever’s in your cupboard!
Perfect Snack Times
Snack on these before your workout—they’re packed with a steady stream of carbs and some protein. They also shine as bite-sized desserts at brunch with strong coffee to match the chocolate. Wrap each one in paper for an easy, thoughtful gift for friends who care about what they eat.
Pin it
Inspiration and History
This treat riffs off old-school energy bars athletes love, but with more flavor and power-packed superfoods. Dates as the sweet, sticky base nod to energy balls from the Middle East—people there have relied on them for centuries to fuel long journeys.
Pro Tips
- If your dates are tough, a quick soak in hot water makes them easy to blend
- For bigger flavor, mix in a tablespoon of almond butter
- Use a knife dipped in hot water to get clean slices every time
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What's the best way to store these brownies?
Keep them covered in the freezer for up to a month. Let them thaw for a few minutes before eating.
- → Can I swap cranberries for something else?
Sure, dried cherries or goji berries work well instead.
- → What if the mixture feels too dry?
Add a spoon or two of warm water to get the right texture.
- → Can I skip the chocolate topping?
Definitely, they're still delicious without melted chocolate.
- → Can I use different nuts?
Of course, hazelnuts, almonds, or any nuts you prefer will work nicely.