Date & Walnut Energy Bars – vibrant, wholesome, and little bites of power! Thanks so much for stopping by—I’m excited to bring you this fantastic Date & Walnut Energy Bars recipe that’s not only delicious but also packed with natural energy. If you love uplifting and easy-to-make snacks, you’re in the right place. Don’t forget to subscribe for more delightful family recipes sent straight to your inbox!
Overview of Recipe Content
These Date & Walnut Energy Bars are ideal for breakfast on the go, a post-workout snack, or an anytime pick-me-up. With natural sweetness from dates and crunch from walnuts, these bars are both satisfying and energizing. They have a chewy texture with hints of cinnamon and vanilla—bordering on dessert, yet entirely wholesome.
Why you’ll love it
- No refined sugar—sweetened naturally.
- Grain-free & gluten-free (thanks to almond flour).
- Portable and versatile—perfect for lunchboxes, hiking, or desk snacks.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups pitted dates
- 1 cup walnuts
- ½ cup almond flour
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- ¼ cup shredded coconut (optional, for topping)
Tools Needed
- Food processor or high-speed blender
- 8×8 inch baking tray or small loaf pan
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowl
Substitutions & Additions
- Swap walnuts for almonds, pecans, or a blend.
- Use flax or chia seeds for extra fiber.
- Add 2 tbsp mini chocolate chips for a treat.
- Use peanut butter for creaminess—you’ll thank me later!
How to Make Date & Walnut Energy Bars
- Process the nuts: Pulse walnuts in a food processor until coarsely chopped.
- Add dates and dry ingredients: Toss in dates, almond flour, cinnamon, and salt. Process until a sticky, crumbly mixture forms.
- Flavor it up: Add honey (or maple syrup) and vanilla. Pulse again until the mixture clumps together.
- Shape the bars: Line your tray with parchment paper. Press mixture firmly into an even layer—compact is key! If using coconut, sprinkle on top and press lightly.
- Chill to set: Cover and refrigerate 1–2 hours (or freeze for 30 minutes).
- Cut and serve: Lift the slab using the parchment. Slice into bars or squares. Enjoy!
I love popping one into my bag before heading out—pure goodness!
What to Serve with Date & Walnut Energy Bars
- A bold espresso or matcha latte.
- Greek yogurt topped with berries.
- Slices of crisp apple or pear for extra freshness.
Tips for Making It Perfect
- No date? Soak them in hot water for 10 minutes, then drain well before processing.
- Avoid sogginess: Press the mixture firmly and chill thoroughly.
- Make-ahead: Keep bars chilled—they hold well in the fridge for up to a week.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: In a sealed container for 5–7 days.
- Freeze: Wrap individually and store in freezer bags. They last up to 3 months—great for meal prep!
General Information
Energy bars like these are beloved across the globe for their convenience and nutrition. Dates add potassium and fiber, while walnuts bring healthy fats and protein. They’re a nonna‑approved snack—perfectly portable and full of natural energy.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use sun-dried dates?
Yes! Just make sure they’re soft—soak if needed before blending.
2. Are these suitable for vegans?
Absolutely—just use maple syrup instead of honey.
3. Can I bake them?
They’re meant to stay raw. Baking could dry them out — chilling is the way to go!
4. How do I make them nut-free?
Swap walnuts for pumpkin seeds and almond flour for oat flour.
5. Can I make smaller portions?
Yes—halve the ingredients and press into a loaf pan.
Conclusion
These Date & Walnut Energy Bars are your go‑to for homemade, wholesome energy. They’re simple, adaptable, and so flavorful—without any guilt! If you loved these, try my No‑Bake Peanut Butter Oat Bars and Blueberry Almond Energy Squares next. Happy nibbling, and see you again soon!
Interactive Elements
Let me know how they turned out by leaving a comment below! Snap a picture and share it on Pinterest—tag me at poulefrecipe so I can cheer you on. 🌟
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Bar (8 bars total) |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~180 kcal |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Total Fat | 10 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1 g |
| Sugar | 12 g |
Delightful and Nourishing Date & Walnut Energy Bars
- Total Time: 10m
- Yield: 8 bars 1x
Description
Chewy, naturally sweet Date & Walnut Energy Bars – perfect for on-the-go breakfasts, healthy snacking, or post-workout fuel. They’re gluten-free, grain-free, and full of nourishing ingredients that keep you energized throughout the day.
Ingredients
1 ½ cups pitted dates
1 cup walnuts
½ cup almond flour
½ tsp cinnamon
1 tsp vanilla extract
¼ tsp salt
2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
¼ cup shredded coconut (optional)
Instructions
1. Pulse walnuts in a food processor until coarsely chopped.
2. Add dates, almond flour, cinnamon, and salt. Process until crumbly and sticky.
3. Add honey and vanilla. Pulse until the mixture clumps together.
4. Press mixture into a parchment-lined 8×8 tray; sprinkle coconut on top and press lightly.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for 1–2 hours (or freeze for 30 minutes) until firm.
6. Lift out and slice into 8 bars. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
You can soak the dates in warm water for 10 minutes if they’re a bit dry.
For a vegan version, use maple syrup instead of honey.
Add mini chocolate chips, chia seeds, or peanut butter for fun variations!
- Prep Time: 10m
- Cook Time: 0m
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 12
- Sodium: 50
- Fat: 10
- Saturated Fat: 1
- Unsaturated Fat: 9
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 18
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 3
- Cholesterol: 0
