Chocolate Peanut Butter Snack Bars

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 300F (149C). Line an 8 or 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper with enough overhang onthe sides to easily remove the bars from the pan. Set aside.In a medium bowl, mix the honey, almond meal, peanut butter, and vanilla together until combined. Fold in the peanuts, dates, and chocolate chipsuntil combined.
2. 2
   Transfer mixture to prepared baking pan and press very firmly into an even layer. You really want it packed in tight- as tight as possible.
3. 3
   Bake for 20-22minutes, or until lightly browned on the edges.
4. 4
   Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely in the pan set on a wire rack for 1 hour, then transfer to the refrigerator to chill for 1 more hour. This firms up the bars which helpsthem stay compact.
5. 5
   Removebars from the pan using the overhang on the sidesand cut into bars. You can drizzle with chocolate before or after cutting.Individually wrap each bar in plastic wrap or parchment. Store at room temperature for 1 week or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. I find they get a little sticky at room temperature over a few days, so I prefer the refrigerator.Make ahead tip:These bars are freezer friendly. After wrapping individually, freeze for up to 3 months and thaw before enjoying.