Gluten-Free Date Bars (No Added Sugar)
These Oatmeal Walnut Gluten-Free Date Bars are seriously dreamy. They make the perfect energizing on-the-go snack and are a healthy option because they are free of added sugars.
These Oatmeal Walnut Gluten-Free Date Bars are seriously dreamy. They make the perfect energizing on-the-go snack and are a healthy option because they are free of added sugars.
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup coconut oil
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut
- 1/2 cup walnuts
- 1 1/2 cup oats ((divided))
- 5-6 medjool dates ((4 ounces of pitted dates)*)
- 2 tablespoons ground flax
- 18 ounces of pitted dates)*)
- 1/4 - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt ((i like 1/2 but begin with 1/4 and add to taste))
- Carbohydrate 1.64262958350994 g
- Cholesterol 15.2515625 mg
- Fat 14.3145085985683 g
- Fiber 0.993343203039033 g
- Protein 1.31846239661482 g
- Saturated Fat 9.25126372134686 g
- Serving Size 1 1 square (51g)
- Sodium 71.4118541653969 mg
- Sugar 0.649286380470903 g
- Trans Fat 0.990836734727644 g
- Calories 134 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 325º F.
- Add 1 cup oatmeal to a food processor bowl, and process until a flour forms.
- Add coconut, dates, sea salt, and baking soda, and process until the dates are fully broken up.
- Add the other 1/2 cup oatmeal and walnuts, and pulse 8-10 times, until the walnuts are chopped, but still a bit chunky.
- To the food processor bowl, add the egg, flax, and coconut oil, and pulse until combined.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of oatmeal mixture to use as a topping.
- Line an 8 x 8 pan with baking paper.
- Add the rest of the oatmeal cookie mixture to the pan, and press down into an even layer.
- Rinse out the food processor, and add date layer ingredients.
- Pulse 10-15 times, until the dates are broken up. Then, process for another 3-4 minutes, until the dates take on a light, whipped caramel color.
- Carefully, using wet hands to press it down and smooth it, add the date layer on top of the cookie layer.
- Crumble the reserved 1/2 cup of oatmeal mixture over the top.
- Bake for 18 minutes.
- For best results, completely cool before slicing.
My Unexpectedly Delicious Gluten-Free Date Bar Adventure
As a busy working mom, finding healthy and delicious snacks that my kids actually enjoy is a constant quest. I’m always juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and dinner prep, and let’s be honest, sometimes the easiest option is reaching for a processed snack. But I'm committed to nourishing my family with wholesome food, so I'm constantly searching for alternatives. That's how I stumbled upon the magical world of gluten-free date bars – and let me tell you, it’s a game-changer!
I’ve always been a fan of dates; their natural sweetness is a delightful alternative to refined sugar. But I never imagined how versatile they could be in baking. These oatmeal walnut gluten-free date bars are truly something special. The texture is perfect – a delightful blend of chewy and crumbly, with the walnuts adding a satisfying crunch. And the best part? They’re surprisingly easy to make. Even on my busiest days, I can whip up a batch without a lot of hassle.
The process of making these bars is strangely therapeutic. The rhythmic whirring of the food processor as the ingredients combine, the satisfying thud as I press the mixture into the pan, the warm, comforting aroma that fills my kitchen during baking – it’s a small act of self-care amidst the chaos of daily life. I also appreciate the opportunity to involve my children in the process. Older kids can help measure ingredients, younger ones can help stir (always under close supervision!), which is a great way to bond and teach them about healthy eating habits.
More than just a snack. These date bars aren't just a quick energy boost; they’re also a great way to satisfy my sweet tooth without the guilt. The natural sweetness of the dates is perfectly balanced, and the added oats and walnuts provide sustained energy to power me through my busy days. I've found them particularly helpful during those afternoon slumps, providing a healthier alternative to sugary treats that often leave me feeling sluggish.
I love bringing these date bars along on family outings. They're perfect for picnics, hikes, or even a quick lunchbox addition for school. Because they are easily stored in the freezer, it allows me to always have healthy snacks readily available, ensuring my family has the energy to tackle the day. The freezer also seems to maintain their taste and texture even better than leaving them at room temperature. These also make a wonderfully impressive and delicious treat at the end of a long week, and are an equally great way to impress friends and family.
Beyond the convenience and health benefits, these date bars have become a symbol of my commitment to creating a healthy and happy life for my family. It's a small thing, but the act of preparing wholesome food brings me a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment that extends beyond just nourishing my family's bodies. It’s a little piece of love baked into every bite.
So, if you're looking for a quick, easy, and healthy snack that's both delicious and satisfying, I highly recommend trying these gluten-free date bars. They're sure to become a favorite in your household!
