Description
This No-Bake Date Walnut Slice is a healthy, naturally sweet treat made from pitted dates, walnuts, oats, and cocoa powder, blended into a sticky mixture and chilled until firm. Perfect for a nutritious snack or dessert, this easy-to-make slice combines wholesome ingredients to deliver a balanced flavor of sweetness and nuttiness without any baking required.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups pitted dates (about 12-15 dates)
- 1 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- 1 tbsp chia seeds (optional, for extra nutrition)
Wet Ingredients
- 1/4 cup almond butter (or peanut butter)
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for added sweetness)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Dates: In a food processor, pulse the pitted dates until they form a sticky paste. If the dates are too dry, add a tablespoon of water to help them blend smoothly and create a cohesive base for the mixture.
- Mix the Ingredients: Add the chopped walnuts, rolled oats, cocoa powder, almond butter, honey or maple syrup if using, vanilla extract, and sea salt to the food processor. Blend everything together until the mixture is well combined and sticky enough to hold together when pressed.
- Press the Mixture into a Pan: Line an 8×8-inch square pan with parchment paper. Transfer the blended mixture into the pan and use a spatula to firmly press it down into an even layer, ensuring the slice will hold its shape once chilled.
- Chill the Slice: Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours, or until the slice is firm and set completely.
- Serve: After chilling, remove the slice from the pan using the parchment paper. Cut it into squares or bars and serve. Enjoy these naturally sweet and nutty treats as a healthy snack or dessert.
Notes
- Use soft, sticky dates for best results; Medjool dates work especially well.
- If you prefer a sweeter slice, add honey or maple syrup as indicated, or adjust to taste.
- Chilling longer than 2 hours can help the slice firm up even more for easier cutting.
- The slice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- For a nut-free version, substitute walnuts and almond butter with sunflower seeds and sunflower seed butter.
