No Bake Chocolate Mint Bars

• 1 cup packed, pitted Medjool dates (approx 12)
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 2 tbsp cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup unflavoured protein powder (I use Garden of Life Raw)
• 1/4 tsp fine grain sea salt, or to taste
• 2 tbsp almond milk
• 1/2 tsp peppermint extract, or to taste
• 1/2 cup walnuts
• 1/4 cup almonds
• 1 tbsp raw millet (optional)
• 4 tbsp mini dark chocolate chips (I use Enjoy Life) or chopped chocolate
• 1-2 tbsp large flake unsweetened coconut, for garnish

• 1. Line a loaf pan with two pieces of parchment paper, one going each way. Set aside. In a food processor, process the pitted dates until chopped and sticky.
• 2. Add in the rolled oats, cocoa powder, protein powder, salt, peppermint extract, and almond milk. Process until combined, scraping down the side of the bowl as needed.
• 3. Finally, add in the nuts, optional millet, and chocolate chips and pulse until combined and sticky. It should be sticky enough to easily make a ball.
• 4. Crumble mixture all over prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle a handful of flaked coconut on top and press mixture into pan with slightly wet fingers. Cover with a piece of parchment paper and roll out smooth with a pastry roller.
• 5. Freeze for about 15 minutes or until set. Slice into 6 rows and then slice rows in half to make 12 small bars. I prefer these straight from the freezer.
• Note: You want to use a very neutral-tasting protein powder here so it won’t impact the overall flavour. Alternatively, you can probably use hemp seeds for a kick of protein.

Read more: http://ohsheglows.com/2012/09/01/no-bake-peppermint-patty-bars-ii-naturally-sweetened-with-dates/#ixzz3ynDkhtA2