Indulge in the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and nutty flavors with these irresistible no-bake chocolate bars. Combining the rich creaminess of tahini, the natural sweetness of dates, and the luxurious depth of dark chocolate, these bars are a guilt-free dessert that promises to tantalize your taste buds and nourish your body.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 cups (300g) dates, pitted and chopped
- 1 cup (90g) rolled oats
- 1/2 cup (120g) tahini
- 1/4 cup (80ml) honey or maple syrup
- 1/3 cup (50g) cacao nibs
- 1/3 cup (45g) chopped pistachios
- 2 tablespoons (14g) ground flaxseed
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cardamom (optional)
Chocolate Topping
- 1 cup (170g) dark chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) coconut oil
- 1 tablespoon tahini
- Flaky sea salt for sprinkling
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Pan
- Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper
- Ensure overhang on sides for easy removal
- Create Date Base
- Pulse dates in food processor until they form a sticky paste
- Add rolled oats, pulse to break down slightly
- Combine Ingredients
- Add tahini, honey/maple syrup, cacao nibs, pistachios, flaxseed
- Add orange zest, vanilla, sea salt, and cardamom
- Pulse until well combined but maintaining some texture
- Form the Base Layer
- Press mixture firmly and evenly into prepared pan
- Use bottom of glass to create smooth, compact layer
- Prepare Chocolate Topping
- Melt chocolate chips and coconut oil in microwave
- Use 30-second intervals, stirring between each
- Stir tahini into melted chocolate mixture
- Finish and Decorate
- Pour chocolate over date layer
- Spread evenly with spatula
- Drizzle additional tahini in zigzag pattern
- Create marbled effect with toothpick
- Sprinkle with flaky sea salt
- Set and Serve
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours
- Lift bars out using parchment paper
- Cut into squares or rectangles
- Store in airtight container in refrigerator
Nutritional Information
Per Bar (assumes 12 bars):
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Total Fat: 15g
- Sugar: 20g
Preparation Time: 20 minutes Chilling Time: 2 hours Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes Yield: 12 bars
Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Use Medjool dates for best texture and sweetness
- Ensure dates are pitted completely
- Press base layer firmly for compact bars
- Use high-quality dark chocolate for rich flavor
- Let bars sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving for optimal texture
Variations and Substitutions
- Replace tahini with almond or cashew butter
- Use maple syrup for vegan option
- Swap pistachios with almonds or walnuts
- Use white chocolate for a different topping
- Add protein powder to base for extra nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make these bars nut-free? A: Yes, replace pistachios with sunflower or pumpkin seeds
Q: How long do these bars keep? A: Refrigerated, they’ll last up to 2 weeks
Q: Are these bars gluten-free? A: Use certified gluten-free oats to make them gluten-free
Q: Can I freeze these bars? A: Yes, freeze for up to 3 months in an airtight container
Q: Are these bars kid-friendly? A: Absolutely! A nutritious, sweet treat kids will love
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Keep refrigerated in airtight container
- Best enjoyed within 2 weeks
- Can be made 3-4 days in advance
- Separate layers with parchment when storing
Enjoy your delicious, nutritious Salted Caramel Tahini No-Bake Chocolate Bars!