Apricot, Walnut and Coconut Date Bars

Anyone else trying to limit their intake of refined sugar this month but still struggling with a demanding sweet tooth?  There are all kinds of theories about WHY we crave sweet food but I'm more interested in figuring out HOW to satisfy my sweet tooth without putting refined sugar, syrup or honey in my body.  The struggle is real -- I'm trying hard to minimize the amount of sugar that I consume this month - which is exceedingly difficult considering the fact that I make cake, cupcakes and cookies on a daily basis. 

Today I'm sharing my simple secret to satisfying my own sweet cravings - dates.  Natures natural sweetener.  I'm not a huge fan of eating dates on their own but I do love the sweetness that they add to almost any recipe.  If you've never tried a date sweetened recipe - these Apricot, Walnut and Coconut Date Bars are a great place to start.  ​ These no bake treats are easy to make and sweet enough to satisfy even the most demanding sweet tooth. 

Apricot, Walnut and Coconut Date Bars
1 cup pitted dates
1 cup dried apricots
1/2 cup whole almonds
1/2 cup whole walnuts
1/3 cup dried coconut
​

Pulse dates, apricots, almonds and walnuts in food processor until pea sized pieces remain. 

Add coconut and pulse several more times. 

Line and 8" square pan with parchment paper.  Press mixture into pan.

Refrigerate 1 hour before slicing into 8 bars. 

Enjoy!

I suggest you make yourself a cup of tea to enjoy with these delightful little treats. 

I'm already coming up with new variations of this recipe.  Perhaps I'll give peaches and pistachios a try.  Or maybe even cranberries and almonds.  So many possibilities.  Have fun.  

Ciao!

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