Ingredients

Base:

• 1 ½ cups dates (pitted and soft, soak in warm water for 10 minutes if needed)

• 1 cup hazelnuts (toasted for extra flavor)

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

• ¼ teaspoon salt



Chocolate Topping:

• ½ cup dark chocolate chips (or chopped dark chocolate, 70% or higher) or homemade chocolate (link to my recipe)  

• 1 tablespoon coconut oil (or unsweetened almond butter for extra creaminess)

Preparation

STEP 1: MAKE THE BASE

• Add hazelnuts to a food processor and blend until finely chopped.

• Add the dates, vanilla, and salt. Blend until a sticky dough forms.

• Press the mixture firmly into a lined baking dish (about 8x8 inches).

• Place in the fridge while you prepare the chocolate layer.

STEP 2: MAKE THE CHOCOLATE TOPPING

• Melt the dark chocolate and coconut oil together in a heatproof bowl over a double boiler. Or make your own chocolate. 

• Stir until smooth and pour over the date-hazelnut base.

STEP 3: SET & SERVE

• Spread the chocolate evenly, then place the dish in the fridge for at least 1 hour (or freezer for 30 minutes) to firm up.

• Once set, slice into bars or squares.

• Enjoy! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week or freeze for longer storage.