Easy Fruit and Nut Bars (copycat recipe!)
Prep Time: 5 mins
Servings: 8
I was obsessed with a packaged fruit and nut bar and decided to make my own copycat version! These easy fruit and nut bars only have 4 ingredients and take minutes to make. I suggest letting them set in the fridge but this is optional.
Equipment
- Food Processor
Ingredients
- 1 cup cashews (unroasted and unsalted)
- 2 cups packed dates pitted
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup dried cranberries or raisins
- Pinch sea salt , optional
Instructions
- Line an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper so it hangs out over 2 opposing sides. You can also use a smaller pan if you want a thicker bar.
- Place the cashews in the food processor and pulse until roughly chopped and crumbly.
- Next add the remaining ingredients in the order listed. Pulse a couple of times to incorporate the cocoa powder then process continuously until the mixture starts clumping together or at least easily sticks together when you squeeze it between your fingers.
- Transfer the mixture to the baking pan and press it very firmly and evenly into the dish being sure to work it into the corners.
- Next place the pan in the fridge and let it sit, uncovered, for anywhere from 2 and even up to 12 hours. Letting it sit uncovered allows the bars to firm up. The longer they sit, the firmer they'll be.
- Remove them from the fridge and cut them into squares or bars. Keep them in a covered container in the fridge for up to 5 days or keep them in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Notes
For a NUT FREE version: Use sunflower seeds instead of cashews.
I like to add sea salt but you can omit it for a salt-free option.
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