½cupVanilla Plant-Based Protein Powdercan sub for almond flour
3TbsCoconut Oilmelted
1TbsMaple Syrup
5Medjool Datespitted
Pinch of Salt
Caramel Layer
1cupMedjool Datespitted
2TbsWater
Pinch of Sea Salt
Other Layers
¾cupPecans or Walnutschopped
⅓cupCreamy Almond Butter
½cupShredded Coconut Flakes
⅔cupDairy-Free Dark Chocolate Chips
Instructions
Line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Make sure paper is extended past the dish since you will lift the bars out of the pan to cut.
Add almond flour, protein powder, dates, maple syrup/coconut nectar and sea salt to a high-speed blender or food processor. Pulse into well combined.
The mixture should feel somewhat sticky and hold together when you press between your fingers. If it's too dry, add a little more water or another date.
Add crust to the parchment-lined pan and use your hands to spread it into an even layer, pushing the crust up to the edges of the pan.
Set aside while you prepare the date caramel.
Prepare the date caramel by adding dates, water, and salt to a blender or food processor and blend until a caramel paste forms. You will have to stop and scrape down the sides between blending.
Time to layer! Add the date caramel on top of the crust, spreading evenly. Then add pecans, almond butter, coconut flakes, and lastly chocolate chips.
Chill in the freezer for at least one hour before cutting.
Notes
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator up to 5 days or in the freezer up to 1 month (if they last even that long!)