Pistachio Date Chocolate Bar

If you’re a chocolate lover looking for a healthy yet delicious option, the pistachio date chocolate bar is the perfect choice! This irresistible combination not only pleases the palate but also provides a significant dose of nutrients. With its harmonious blend of rich chocolate, crunchy pistachios, and naturally sweet dates, this bar offers a delightful taste experience that caters to both your cravings and your health goals. Packed with essential vitamins and minerals, it serves as an excellent source of energy, making it an ideal snack for a midday boost or a post-workout treat. Each bite delivers a satisfying texture and flavor profile that will leave you feeling indulgent without the guilt.

Ingredients:
• 1 cup lightly roasted pistachios (unsalted and shelled)
• 1 cup almond flour
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 cups dates (rehydrated for 30 minutes in water and pitted)
• 3 tablespoons of the water used to rehydrate the dates
• 6 tablespoons pistachio cream (~90g)
• 2 tablespoons honey (I used date honey)
• A pinch of salt (optional)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
• 3 cups 70% chocolate (I used Belgian from Cacao Berry)
Instructions:
1. Process the pistachios with the almond flour and 2 tablespoons of honey in a food processor until a fine mixture is obtained.
2. Prepare a small rectangular baking dish (27.9 x 17.8 x 3.81 cm) by lining it with parchment paper.
3. Transfer the processed mixture to the baking dish and press down firmly with a glass or your hands to form the first layer. Set aside.
4. In the food processor, blend the rehydrated dates, the hydration water, pistachio cream, honey, vanilla extract, and salt (if using) until a dense paste forms.
5. Spread this dense paste over the prepared pistachio base in the baking dish, creating the second layer.
6. On top, add another cup of roasted pistachios, gently pressing down with your hands.
7. Place the baking dish in the freezer for about 1 hour, until firm enough to cut easily.
8. Meanwhile, melt the 3 cups of 70% chocolate until smooth.
9. Remove the baking dish from the freezer and cut the bars to your desired size. Dip each bar in the melted chocolate.
10. Place the coated bars on a piece of parchment paper and return to the freezer for about 10 minutes.