Chocolate. Cherries. Coconut. Could there be a better combination for a Valentine's Day (or any day) treat?
I mean, the chickpea/chocolate/goji berry combo from my very first post may come close but I don't know, there's just something about these CCC bars.
I love cherries and chocolate. Together they make the most perfectly classic Valentine's Day duo. Add some crunchy shredded coconut flakes and it's over. Just way too good.
You probably already keep most of the ingredients needed to make these bars in your pantry - and there's no baking required - so I'm really not leaving you with much of an excuse not to make these for someone you love. (Yourself being a totally valid option, of course.)
These were made to be a dessert but they're prepared without any added sugar/sweeteners.
I'm equally satisfied with these bars for dessert as I am for snacks. They're always good.
I just call it dessert if it happens after dinner.
EAT YOUR HEART OUT
Beyond flavor, cherries also provide tons of beneficial nutrients that help protect the heart.
Cherries are rich sources of antioxidants, like vitamin C and beta carotene, which are associated with a lower risk for heart disease. Cherries also provide potassium, which aids in fluid balance and helps balance blood pressure. They're also rich sources of phytosterols, which are important for cholesterol balance.
THESE BARS OFFER:
- The most delicious trio of flavors ever. (chocolate/cherries/coconut)
- A no-bake Valentine's Day treat that uses mostly pantry ingredients and no added sugar.
- Heart-healthy cherries, which also offer healthy carbohydrates and fiber.
- Healthy fats and long-lasting energy from nuts and seeds.
- An excuse to call your dessert a snack.
- 1 cup dates pitted and quartered
- ½ cup almonds
- ½ cup cashews
- ½ cup dried cherries preferably unsweetened and unsulfured
- ½ cup unsweetened shredded coconut divided in half
- ¼ cup hemp seeds or sub with flax/chia seeds
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- Salt
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Combine all ingredients except ¼ cup coconut in for processor and process until well-combined. Mixture should stick together when pressed. If it's crumbling, try adding a couple of dates and processing again.
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Press the mixture into a parchment-lined baking dish using hands or the back of a spoon to make sure it's firm and flat. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before cutting into squares and serving.
[Tweet "Try these heart-healthy Chocolate Cherry Coconut Bars for a healthy Valentine's treat!"]
Julia says
These looks great! However, I think you left the 'chocolate' part out of the ingredients. Do share!! 🙂
Steph | The Grateful Grazer says
Oh my goodness, you're right! I used 2 tbsp cocoa powder. The recipe is updated, thanks so much for letting me know Julia! ?☺️
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine says
Wow, delish!!! Nothing not to love in these super packed bars <3
Steph | The Grateful Grazer says
Thanks Rebecca! Some of my favorites all put together into one bar! ☺️??
lynn @ the actor's diet says
Dried cherries are soooooo good. Can't wait to try this recipe.
Steph | The Grateful Grazer says
They are definitely one of the best dried fruits ever! Thanks Lynn, I hope you enjoy it! ☺️
Amanda Parrish says
It's basically a larabar and I approve of that. 😉 I often grind a tablespoon of whole coffee beans and add to the mixture. SO GOOD
Steph | The Grateful Grazer says
Yep, a lot of my dessert recipes are "larabars" in disguise. I'm not a big baker and just love a treat that's only sweetened with dates! Funny you mention the coffee because I'm working on a java recipe right this minute...can't wait to share! 🙂