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Date Caramel Nut Butter Blondies

A grain-free and vegan sweet treat you are sure to love. This recipe has the option of being nut free as well when you use peanut butter or sunflower seed butter. Chickpeas lend a smooth texture and plant-based nutrition.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Dessert
Servings 9 bars

Equipment

  • Food processor
  • 8x8 baking dish

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups Medjool dates pits removed; equals about 20 large
  • 3-4 cups boiling water
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 15.5oz can of chickpeas drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 cup creamy nut butter I suggest almond, cashew or peanut butter
  • 3 tablespoons coconut flour
  • 2 tablespoons coconut sugar

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line an 8-by-8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
  • In a medium bowl, soak the dates in the boiling water for 20 minutes.
  • Drain the dates, reserving 3 tablespoons of the soaking water.
  • In a food processor, place the dates, the reserved soaking water, vanilla, and salt. Blend for 20 to 30 seconds, scraping down the sides as you need until creamy.
  • To the food processor, add the chickpeas, nut butter, coconut flour, and coconut sugar. Process for about 30 seconds, scraping down the sides as you need to until everything is combined and creamy.
  • Using a wetted spatula, transfer the dough (it will be sticky) to the baking dish until it is evenly spread.
  • Bake for 28 to 30 minutes until sides are golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow the bars to completely cool in the baking dish, at least 2 hours.

Notes

If you forget to reserve the soaking water for the date caramel, substitute with 3 tablespoons of plain water.
Removing the shells from the chickpeas will create a creamier texture, but isn't necessary.
Storage: store in an air-tight container for 4 days, or in the fridge for up to one week. 
Keyword Dairy-free, Egg-free, Gluten-free, Grain-free, Nut-free, Soy-free, Tree Nut-free, Vegan